Framers of the Constitution

Worksheet Description

The worksheet explores the reasoning behind the framers of the U.S. Constitution’s preference for a republican form of government. Presented in a fill-in-the-blank format, it delves into the framers’ desire to ensure certain rights for U.S. citizens while being cautious of direct democracy’s potential pitfalls. The sheet highlights the concept of elected officials acting based on their judgment for the collective electorate once in office. Additionally, it encourages students to critically reflect on the effectiveness and appropriateness of the republican model in practice.

This worksheet is intended to cultivate students’ understanding of the principle of republicanism, emphasizing why the framers of the Constitution might have had reservations about a direct democracy. Through the fill-in-the-blank format, students are encouraged to actively engage with the material, prompting them to think deeply about the choices made during the Constitution’s drafting. Furthermore, by asking learners to form an opinion on the republican form of government’s effectiveness, it promotes critical thinking and analytical skills. The ultimate objective is to foster an appreciation for the complexities and considerations that went into establishing the American government’s foundational principles.