Constitutional Principles

Worksheet Description

The worksheet jumps into the foundational doctrines that undergird the U.S. Constitution. It presents students with a list of seven central tenets, from “Popular Sovereignty” to “Individual Rights.” For each principle, students are instructed to discuss the rationale for its inclusion in the Constitution, discerning the intentions or concerns of the framers. The visual icon of a capitol building atop the sheet serves as a reminder of the governance structure these principles shape, grounding the exercise in the real-world context of American governance.

Through this worksheet, students are encouraged to engage in a deeper exploration of the key principles that structure the American governmental system. By analyzing the reasons each principle was deemed essential by the framers, learners gain insight into the historical context and the challenges the framers hoped to address or avert. The exercise promotes critical thinking and fosters a nuanced understanding of the Constitution, encouraging students to see it not merely as a static document but as a reflection of deliberate choices made in response to specific issues. In essence, the worksheet aims to cultivate an appreciation for the foresight and wisdom embedded in the U.S. Constitution and the foundational beliefs that inform American democracy.