Fiscal Federalism Activity: Parent/Guardian Grant Proposal

This student-centered project is a wonderful way to introduce the concept of Fiscal Federalism to Civics/American Government students. In this fun and interactive activity, students will design grant applications in which they (the states) will request federal funding through categorical or block grants. Students will ask for things they really want or need by seeking parent/guardian (federal government) funding.

It is an engaging way for students to learn and apply key terms like mandates, categorical/block grants that they will need to understand for the AP US Government and Politics Exam. It will also illustrate the reality that sometimes a state's goals or needs conflict with those of the federal government.