Establishing a Government: Activity Sheet 1C

Directions: In this simulation you will experience the thought and cooperation required to design and establish a government. You must meet to form of government for your stranded group. Use the space below each step to take notes during the simulation.

Step 1: Meet and Decide. Each student should present the type of government he or she thinks is best suited to the situation, making sure to explain the reasons for his or her position. The explanation should address how the type of government being proposed is best suited to fulfilling the purposes of government, given the situation on the island. Once everyone has spoken, debate the various positions and proposals. You should feel free to challenge other students’ positions. Ask questions, point out problems, and argue your position. On the other hand, you should also be open to accepting other positions, or modifying your own, if others’ arguments are convincing.

Step 2: Draft a Constitution. Once you have reached a decision on what type of government to establish, draft a simple constitution to establish your government officially and to describe its most important features. Your constitution must fulfill all of the basic purposes of constitutions.

Step 3: Revise the Constitution. The language of a constitution is of paramount importance. Carefully revise your constitution to avoid inconsistencies and confusion, which might lead to conflicts among citizens.

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