Let's go make a House !
"Jefferson believed that architecture was the heart of the American cause.In his mind, a building was not merely a walled structure, but a metaphor for American ideology, and the process of construction was equal to the task of building a nation.The architecture of any American building should express the American desire to break cultural - as well as political ties to Europe."
“Extreme Makeover”
“We have it in our power to begin the world over again.
A situation similar to the present, hath not happened since the days of Noah until now.
The birthday of a new world is at hand.”
Thomas Paine, February 14, 1776
Without the British government ,the United States
had no central government. The priority was now to design and install a new government – quickly.
The first attempt at a constitution for the United States
was called the Articles of Confederation. Though this document provided a basic plan for the powers of a central government, it was inadequate to resolve other issues.
The final efforts would result in the document we know as the Constitution.
After reviewing your text as well as the articles, you should be able to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the Articles and the improvements brought by the Constitution.
After reviewing the information you will create an “Extreme Makeover” Government Edition….. in a visual format.
Stage 1 – represent the early period under British Rule as a basic house needing much repair…..note specific weaknesses – structure, materials, weather proofing, rooms for growth ?....you add the rest.
Stage 2 – represent the period of the Articles as the house under the process of remodeling…..some improvements but not quite enough.Make sure to draw analogies of “house construction” with the government improvements as well.
Stage 3 – The winning floor plan ! This needs to be built around the improvements brought by the Constitution. Be sure to label these improvements – structure, plans for the future, updated appliances…..and other details that would make “this old house”
a true “extreme makeover”. New paint.. new additions…..from “foundation” improvements to new roof…..all improvements will represent some phase of the new government under the Constituion…..new and improved !
Materials – colored pencils, markers, poster board – rulers –
Plans will include – floor plans as well as outside elevations….
(drawings of the house) .
You will spend time in class today and Wednesday to complete this activity.
Vocabulary - Be sure that the following terms are in your notes or on your vocabulary cards.
separation of power
constitutionalism
electorate
sovereignty
patriotism
federalism
checks and balances
proportional representation
infrastructure
conservative
general assembly
Bill of Rights
bicameral
