Foundations of American Government
Session 6: Preamble

Materials

• Textbook
• Copy of the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States
• Computer with Internet access (optional)

Instructional Activities

1. Begin class with a choral reading of the Preamble. Explain that it is one of the most widely recognized portions of any of the historical documents and it has great importance.
   
   
2. Discuss the purposes of the Constitution of the United States as stated in the Preamble.
   
   
3. Give students copies of the Preamble that are triple spaced. Ask students to strike through the complex wording in the Preamble and substitute simple language for complex words.
   
   
4. When everyone is finished, ask for volunteers to read the new versions of the Preamble.
   
   
5. Lead a discussion in which students compare and contrast the Preamble to the beginning of the Declaration of Independence.
   
   
6. Have groups of students present one additional goal of the new government they would have included in the Preamble to the Constitution.
   
   
7. For homework, ask students to study the checks and balances chart in their text.
   
   
8. Optional activity: Have students complete the “Preamble Scramble” at Ben's Guide to Government for Kids. <http://bensguide.gpo.gov/9-12/games/preamble_scramble.html>.