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Civics on the Street Viewing Guide

Guiding Question

  • How does the Constitution address the challenges of governing a diverse and changing nation?

Objectives

  • I can listen actively and summarize responses, while accurately capturing the main ideas and relevant supporting details.
  • I can describe the structure and function of the Constitution.
  • I can explain how the Constitution addresses the challenges of governing a diverse and changing nation.

Directions: Summarize the answers given to each question. Then, ask any questions you have.

Question  What You Heard (Main Idea) Still Wondering (Questions or Confusions)
Why was the Constitution written, and what problems was it trying to solve after the Articles of Confederation?
What compromises were made during the Constitutional Convention, and why were those necessary?

 
How is the Constitution structured, and what are the main functions of each of its articles?

 
How has the interpretation of the Constitution changed over time?

 
How does the Constitution protect individual rights beyond the Bill of Rights?

 
What role does the Supreme Court play in interpreting the Constitution?

 

 

After watching the complete video, answer the following question.

  1. In your own words, assess how the Constitution addresses the challenges of governing a diverse and changing nation.

More of this Category

Video

Civics on the Street | Exploring the Constitution with Matt Green

7 Min

In this episode of Civics on the Street, Professor Matthew Green of the Catholic University of America answers real questions from students about the U.S. Constitution. From why it was written to the compromises made at the Constitutional Convention, the structure of government, the protection of rights, and the role of the Supreme Court. As part of our Constitution Day Live programming, celebrating “Democracy in Your Backyard”, this video dives into why the Constitution was written, the compromises that made it possible, and how its structure continues to shape our government.