Educator Resource
How the Constitution is Updated Viewing Guide
A student guide to accompany the "Constitutional Amendments | Primary Source Essentials" video.
Guiding Question
- How can the Constitution change?
Objective
- I can explain the constitutional amendment process and give examples of how the process was used in the past.
Directions: Answer each question as you watch the video.
| Question | Answer |
| Under the Articles of Confederation, what was the amendment process? | |
| Which article in the Constitution outlines the amendment process? | |
| What are two ways to propose an amendment? | |
| What portion of states must ratify an amendment before it becomes law? | |
| Give at least four examples of how the Constitution has changed so far. |
After watching the complete video, answer the following questions.
- In your own words, how do popular sovereignty and consent of the governed relate to the amendment process?
- In your own words, do you think the amendment process is too easy, too hard, or just right? Explain.
Standards
More of this category
In this episode of Primary Source Essentials, explore the constitutional amendment process and its connection to the founding principle of popular sovereignty. Learn how the framers designed Article V to balance stability with the ability to adapt, requiring broad consensus for change. Discover how amendments have shaped American history, from the Bill of Rights to the abolition of slavery, the expansion of voting rights, and limits on presidential terms. Understand why the framers made amending the Constitution difficult, how it ensures careful deliberation, and how “we the people” continue to exercise ultimate authority in shaping the nation’s fundamental law.