#107 Examining the Constitution, part 2

Check for understanding.

Outlining for reading

• View “Outlining for Reading” on Discovering History.
  
• Note the definition, purpose, format, and examples on the page.
  

Interpreting the Constitution

• Directions:
  
  • Having carefully reviewed the full text of the Constitution as it was initially passed in 1787, we will consider five significant concepts embedded in the Constitution, and draw on evidence from the document in support of each potential position.
    
  • For each concept, we will call on a pair of discussion leaders to guide us through up to 6 minutes of exploration of the topic.
    
  • Please allow 1 minute of review between each concept.
    

Concept #1: Republicanism

• Question: What should be the role of citizens in creating public policy?
  
• Position A: Public policy should reflect the opinion of voters.
  
• Position B: Public policy should be created by officials who are most informed about the issues involved.
  

Concept #2: Federalism

• Question: How should power be divided between the federal government and the states?
  
• Position A: The federal government should retain the most power because it is best positioned to ensure fair treatment, safety, and equal protection for all Americans.
  
• Position B: The states should retain the most power because they are closer to the people, better informed on local issues, and best positioned to exercise authority for their residents.
  

Concept #3: Limited Government

• Question: To what extent should the federal government be involved in economic issues?
  
• Position A: The federal government's powers over taxation as well as international and interstate trade allow significant latitude in directing economic policy.
  
• Position B: The federal government should only act to remedy unfavorable economic conditions for business activity.
  

Concept #4: Separation of Powers

• Question: Once Congress declares war and the President assumes the role of Commander-in-Chief who decides how the war ends?
  
• Position A: Congress, the policy making branch which represents the people, should determine peace terms.
  
• Position B: The President as Commander-in-Chief is in the best position to determine appropriate actions.
  

Concept #5: Checks and Balances

• Question: When the President makes a nomination, what should be the nature of the Senate's "advice and consent?"
  
• Position A: The Senate should defer to the President's choice of who s/he wants in office.
  
• Position B: It is the Senate’s duty to make an independent judgment of a nominee's suitability for a position serving the American people, even if that means denying the President her/his choice.
  

Homework: Assignment #108