SUBJECTS

U.S. Government

 GRADE LEVEL

9-12

Many current issues are debated in government classes, issues that real representatives debate in Congress.  Yet, there are larger or “greater” issues that deal with core ideas, philosophies or values behind American government that divide politicians or students of politics.  In this lesson, the second of three, students will learn, read, and debate the merits of the separation of powers.  Assignments for this and the next debate will consist of  (a) preview reading/journal, (b) reading and recording of points from a “yes” or “no” point of view, (c) meeting with an opposite point of view, recording notes, and discussing, and (d) post-reading journal.  An all-class debate will occur for only some topics.

 LESSON PLAN

Part I.

Read the one-page Introduction (PDF Document 1 Page) on this topic. The framers of the U.S. Constitution feared tyrannical government that could legislate at will without its power being checked.  Many argue that this separation of powers makes the passage of laws too difficult and slows down progress.  Many believe that the system of three branches does not serve the needs of contemporary society.  What are your views on this topic?  Can you imagine a different type of governing system?  What branches should be kept or eliminated?  Why? What are some issues you see with our current system?

Part II.

You should have been assigned a “Yes” or “No” position on this question.  You are to read the handout and record a minimum of FOUR points that support the position assigned.  Record your answers on the Does the Separation of Powers Produce Ineffective Government? Chart and summarize your points in your own words.

Part III.

You will be assigned a partner who reads the opposite position.  Read your summaries and points to the opposite person.  After you are done, listen to that person’s points.  Discuss your feelings—do you agree or disagree with what you read?  Did the reading change your mind?  After you have had a discussion, record the summaries and points on your chart.

Part IV.

Post-reading Journal (PDF Documents: 6 Pages)

Expand on what you discussed in your opening journal.  Have you changed your opinion since having read more on the debate?  Did the person you spoke with change your mind?  If you feel the same, yet stronger about your opinion, what points made you feel even more confident about your beliefs?

 RESOURCES

 Does the Separation of Powers Produce Ineffective Government? Chart

 Does the Separation of Powers Produce Ineffective Government? Introduction (PDF Document: 1 Page)

 Post-reading Journal - In Defense of Separation of Powers, by James W. Ceaser and Lloyd N. Cutler (PDF Document: 6 Pages)

 CREDIT

This lesson was presented by a past Congress in the Classroom® participant.