The Bill of Rights Institute is offering lesson plans designed especially for their Being An American Essay Contest. The Institute presents videos, games, and webinars to help today's kids learn about American history.
Being An American Bill of Rights Essay Contest
The essay contest is open to students in grades 9-12 or homeschool children ages 13-19. This year's sponsor is History.com.
In an essay of no more than 1,000 words, students are asked to analyze and discuss
- How one of the Founding principles established in the Constitution helps preserve liberty
- Why at least one Founder, as evidenced in a primary source document, believed your chosen principle was a safeguard to liberty
- Why your principle continues to be important today
- How you personally help preserve a culture that ensures the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in America
Deadline: All essays are due online through the Institute’s website by 11:59 PST on December 15, 2011, the official Bill of Rights Day.
A Civic Education for Children
Do you know your rights and responsibilities as an American citizen? The first ten amendments to the U.S. Constitution, known collectively as the Bill of Rights, were designed to protect U.S. citizens from government abuses of power.
The Bill of Rights came into effect on December 15, 1791. Those ten amendments limit government power and protect citizens' natural rights of liberty and property, including
- freedom of speech
- freedom of religion
- a free press
- free assembly
- free association
- protection for persons accused of crimes
You can learn more about the Bill of Rights and the importance of a civic education for children at A Bill of Rights Day Lesson Plan. You'll also find a list of children's websites about the U.S. government. A Constitution Day Lesson Plan also lists useful resources such as printables, children's websites, and a Constitution App.
The American Founding Principles
The Being An American essay contest has been designed to spark dialogue between students and educators about the American Founding Principles. The Institute offers this contest and supporting educational materials as part of their mission to educate young people about the words and ideas of America’s Founders, the guaranteed liberties, and how our Founding Principles continue to affect and shape a free society.
You might also enjoy:
- Flag Day and U.S. Symbols Printables and Activities for Children
- George Washington's Rules of Civility Copywork
Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
Join the Conversation