Recommendations for Classroom Teachers

1. The CitC organization seeks to provide teachers and students the best opportunity to comply with Public Law 108-447 that was signed December 8, 2004. In section 111 (b) it says, Each educational institution that receives Federal funds for a fiscal year shall hold an educational program on the United States Constitution CitC has pro-actively prepared quality lessons on the Constitution that are based on truths affirmed by the Founding Fathers. 2. Teachers generally find the information in the lessons unique and of value to themselves in their own teaching of history and the Constitution. Considering the time and effort given by the CitC volunteer instructors, we encourage classroom teachers to plan on fully participating in the lessons with their students. We expect teachers to make a list or mentally take note of ideas for additional discussions with their students. Therefore, teachers are advised not to leave the classroom during Constitution lessons. 3. There are activities that would be of great value for teachers to do as follow up with their students to solidify what is being taught. We hope concepts being taught will not be isolated but in some way incorporated by teachers into the classroom curriculum for the duration of the lessons. There are challenge ideas given to the students to do some of their own research. Teachers could fit these ideas into their regular curriculum in such a way as to reinforced concepts. The students are given the following challenges: a. Technology Leap Research Think of a useful object such as a pen, pencil, skateboard, bicycle, etc. and do a quick research to find the year it was invented and who the inventor was. b. Founding Father Report - Using the list of signers of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, choose one to learn about. Write a brief list of facts, print a picture, or make a poster. Students could display their findings or be given time in class to give an oral report. c. Students may enjoy collecting the commemorative (state) quarters from each of the original thirteen colonies to help them learn the history of those states. d. Vocabulary from the Constitution can be challenging for young children. Most words introduced in the lessons are thoroughly explained but there may be some words that need addition clarification. We have prepared a vocabulary list that you are free to use as you see fit in your classroom. 4. Constitution instructors from CitC do appreciate the opportunity to be in your classroom and value feedback. We welcome teacher reviews and notes from students on what was learned and thoughts about the lessons.