Lesson
Understanding the Role of Constitutional Government in Promoting Economic Prosperity

Why is equality important for achieving prosperity? How does rule of law create a stable and predictable environment for economic prosperity? What is the proper role of the government in regulating the economy?
Guiding questions
Video supplements additionally published on PolicyEd.org a product of Hoover Institution, Stanford University. To view them in their original format, click here.
Guiding Questions
- Why is equality important for achieving prosperity?
- How does rule of law create a stable and predictable environment for economic prosperity?
- What is the proper role of the government in regulating the economy?
Objectives
- Students will analyze examples of government approaches to providing equal access to prosperity.
- Students will define prosperity, equality, and rule of law.
- Students will explain the role of government and its relationship to economic prosperity.
Materials
Student Handouts
- Hoover Institution Videos & Video Viewing Guide
- Prosperity (optional if Lesson 1 has already been completed)
- Equality
- Government Role
- Rule of Law
- Optional Student Handout
- Glossary
- Background on the Commerce Clause Reading
- Explore Activity Handout
Teacher Handouts
Lesson Components
Lesson plan
60 minClick a phase to open it
Key Terms
- Prosperity
- Equality
- Rule of Law
More Information
Facilitation Notes
- Start with the Hoover videos to give an overview of the included concepts.
- Depending on the level of scaffolding needed for your students, consider distributing the video viewing guides for added support.
- Teachers should review the Commerce Clause before doing this lesson.
- Please note that all of the following are included in the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) of 1938:
- Child Labor Laws
- Minimum Wage Laws
- 40 Hour Work Week










