Civics and Constitutional Life | Civics and U.S. History for Middle School

In this middle school history lesson, students explore Theodore Roosevelt’s 1883 speech The Duties of American Citizenship. Delivered while he was still a New York State Assemblyman, Roosevelt’s words challenged Americans to take their civic responsibilities seriously, and his call to action still resonates today.

What does it mean to be an active citizen, and how do the principles of the Constitution guide that responsibility? Using the VIEW method (Voice, Intent, Environment, and Who), students analyze Roosevelt’s speech to uncover his message about civic virtue, political participation, and working together for the common good.