Congress for Kids: [Constitution]: Ratifying the Constitution

Constitution

Introduction Delegates to the Constitutional Convention The Work Begins Writing the Constitution The Great Compromise Signing the Constitution Ratifying the Constitution Bill of Rights Powers of the Federal Government The Three Branches of Government Checks and Balances Amendments Women - The Right to Vote

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Is it necessary for new states to ratify the U.S. Constitution in order for admission?

Were the anti-federalists for the ratification of the Constitution?

What were the major arguments used by each side (the supporters and the opponents) in the debates over the ratification of the U.S. Constitution?

How did the federalists win ratification of the Constitution?

Conflict Over Ratifying the Constitution

Ratifying the Constitution

The Articles of Confederation or the Constitution
http://home.att.net/~betsynewmark/TrivConfedConst.htm
Multiple-choice exercise. Choose the correct answer for each question.

Debate on Ratification - Should We Ratify the New Constitution http://score.rims.k12.ca.us/activity/ratification/
Debate tasks, processes, resources, learning advice, evaluations, conclusions, and reflections on ratifying the Constitution.

Hangman
http://www.quia.com/hm/24377.html
Name the original states by knowing the order in which they ratified the Constitution.

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Did you know some of the original Framers and many delegates in the state ratifying conventions were troubled that the original Constitution lacked a description of individual
rights? So, in 1791, Americans added a list of rights to the Constitution.

Projects You Can Do

Review a little about the men involved in the ratification of the Constitution. Choose which of them you wish to become.

Begin your research by using Web sites specifically designated for your man, but be sure to also review the general information sites as well.

As you research, use the following questions to guide you through the information: Why would he be considered a federalist or an anti-federalist? What in his background would lead you to believe he would take the stand he did? What were his main arguments? (Choose one or two you can argue best for the debate.) How did he rebut his opponent's arguments? Did he concede any arguments to his opponents? What made his speeches so persuasive? Technique or content or something else? What was he like as a speaker? (e.g., bold & strong, or quiet & soft spoken)?

Write a four minute prepared speech giving your man's best arguments in a most persuasive manner. Remember to start your speech with an attention grabbing statement. Organize it so your conclusion restates the most important points of your argument. These men all felt very strongly about their positions, so a little emotion may be in order! Create a costume and any props you feel will make your presentation more effective.

Stage a debate. Do your four-minute prepared presentation alternating between federalists and anti-federalists. You will have one minute for your rebuttal of points and restatement of your own position. A time keeper should be appointed, and you will need to adhere to the time limitations.

Credit: Janet Mulder, Oak Grove Middle School - Jamul/Dulzura Union School

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