Principles of Democracy and Symbols of Citizenship

Suggested Teaching Instructions

Model/Demonstrate/Teach
Students pair-share, “What is a symbol?”

Then ask, “Can you think of any symbols that you see often? Why do you think people use symbols?” Lead students to the understanding that a symbol is a shape or a picture that represents a thought or idea. For example, a heart symbolizes love.

Display an image of the Statue of Liberty. Ask, “Does anyone know what this statue is? Does anyone know what it is a symbol of? What do you know about the Statue of Liberty?” Chart student responses.

Explain to students that they will analyze different symbols to see how they represent our country, our government, and democracy.

Group/Independent Work
Distribute Symbol Cards with pictures and text. Place one card at each table or in different sections around the room.

• Divide students into groups. Students rotate in their groups to each station, where a different symbol is located. At each station, they analyze the image of the symbol, read the text, and discuss how the symbol represents democracy.
• Students take notes on their findings using the Symbols Graphic Organizer. Encourage students to ask and answer questions as they analyze the symbols.
• Students read Symbols of the United States and complete their note taking on the graphic organizers
  
  

• Gather students at the meeting area and invite them to share their learning.
• Remind students to refer back to the images and text in order to use evidence to help explain their findings.
• Help students understand that these symbols represent the principles of democracy, such as freedom of speech, the right to vote, freedom of speech, and balance of power.

• Students answer the question “What makes a good citizen?” and discuss their ideas with a peer. They can create their own symbols that represent the principles of a good citizen. Students should be able to discuss and share their symbols with the class.
• Link symbols directly to the Constitution. Show an image of the Constitution and read the highlighted excerpts. Discuss what each line means. Prompt students by asking them, “What are the principles of democracy? What evidence can you find in the Constitution that supports your thinking? How do the symbols that we studied today connect to the Constitution? What are the principles (beliefs and truths) of democracy?”