History U.S. or Government - Fun Constitution Day Activity - Rights & Reasons

Hostile aliens have conquered Earth! Americans must vote on 3--and only 3--rights or freedoms to keep under the new alien regime. Which will you choose and why? This activity is a great way to get students to engage in the topic of rights and freedoms on Constitution Day or any other day. It features a student-centered critical thinking exercise that serves as an engaging launching pad for a persuasive essay that encourages students to reflect on values that matter to them. The premise is an alien conquest of Earth, in which our national legal institutions are swept away and we are permitted only 3 rights from our previous Constitution. The students are presented with a convenient list of 10 fundamental rights and freedoms embedded in the Bill of Rights; they must choose which 3 are most important to them and produce valid reasons for their choices. The package includes: “Constitution Day Activity: Rights & Reasons” handout with list of rights and freedoms; “Choices & Reasons” worksheet where students record their choices of rights and freedoms and their reasons for retaining them; double-sided essay prompt worksheet; a convenient double-sided Teacher’s Reference Sheet for the Bill of Rights, explicating the basic meanings and legal interpretations of the 18th century phrasings; plus Teacher's Guide sheet to help you get the most out of the activity.