Our Federal System of Government
Session 3: Relationship between the Federal and State Governments

Materials

• Textbook
• Notebook
• White paper
• Colored pencils

Instructional Activities

1. Direct students to draw two overlapping circles on white paper. Have them list specific powers only the federal government has (Exclusive Powers) in one color in the left circle. Then have the students list specific powers that only the state has (Reserved Powers) in another color in the right circle. In the middle where the circles overlap, instruct them to list the powers shared by the federal government and state government in a third color.
   
   
2. Have students list on the back of their papers three positive outcomes and three negative outcomes of the way in which power operates in our federal system of government.
   
   
3. Have students share their answers, and discuss with them the relationship between the federal and state governments.