Learning Objectives

Instructional Unit:  Federal Government 

          In this unit the students will be presented information about the structure, function, and purposes of our federal government.  The unit will contain a detailed look at the three branches of our government and how they operate individually and cooperatively.  The unit will be taught as part of a 10^th grade Civics class.

Learning Targets: 

At the end of this unit, students should be able describe the three branches of government and their major responsibilities as well as identify fundamental officials.  The objectives in this learning goal are on the lower end of the cognitive domain according to Bloom dealing with mostly knowledge and comprehension.  However it is important that students learn this information as building blocks for better application and analysis of more complex issues.

          Students should be able to apply what they have learned in constructing a scenario that demonstrates how the federal government passes laws.  It is important for all people to understand how our government operates and effects change in society.  The learning target is higher on Bloom’s taxonomy of cognitive skills.  Students have to take their knowledge and apply it to a realistic situation. 

          Students should be able to examine our current government and evaluate whether or not our system of checks and balances is working.  It is necessary for students to make the transition from what they are learning to everyday life.  By knowing how the powers of government are balanced, students can better identify their place in society. This learning target is at the high end of Bloom’s scale of cognitive skills.  Some tenth graders may struggle with this cognitive level, but with assistance can do a good job. 

Contributed by Andy Puhl (Spring '04)