The United States Constitution has become the most important document ever created in American history. The delegates who met in Philadelphia in 1787 were given the arduous task of creating a government that firmly guaranteed freedom, liberty, and justice. Many of the members of the Constitutional Convention witnessed the incredibly challenging task of declaring independence from Britain and now once again, they were forced to fight to establish freedom. Compromise would become integral in the pursuit of progress in the summer of 1787. The ideals set forth by the new Constitution did not come easy, but as the newly established republic would find out, the years of compromise would lead to a much stronger and unified Union.
Student Activities for Constitutional Convention
Discussion Questions for the Constitutional Convention
- What was the purpose of the Constitutional Convention?
- How did the delegates of the Constitutional Convention use compromise to resolve their differences?
- Why did the Articles of Confederation need to be altered?
- What were the results of the Constitutional Convention?
- What were the proposed plans for representation in Congress?
Background for the Constitutional Convention
Although the American Revolution is remembered for the series of military battles from 1775 to 1783, the unprecedented political battles that occurred simultaneously were equally as significant. Before the British surrender of Yorktown, colonial delegates gathered in secret to formulate a structure for the future of American Democracy. Before many of these delegates would be enshrined as America’s “founding fathers”, they had to create a long-term plan for a stable and just republic. The first attempt at the creation of a new government came under the Articles of Confederation.
The government under the Articles of Confederation gave too much power to the states, which resulted in a weak central government that lacked adequate executive and judicial branches. Following the American Revolution, American delegates would convene again with the fate of the new nation hanging in the balance. The weak government created under the Articles of Confederation had left these new American states in a disjointed and very vulnerable position. Delegates had to act quickly to create a new government which ensured liberty but also was strong enough to function effectively. The delegates drafted the United Stated Constitution, which outlined a three-branched government that balanced the needs and securities of the American people.
Through the activities in this Constitutional Convention lesson plan, students will be be introduced to the creation and ratification of the United States Constitution. Students will discuss and research the background of the Constitution, understand the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, examine the role that compromise had in this new republic, and connect how these freedoms and liberties created still remain in society today.
How Tos about What is the Constitutional Convention?
Engage students with a classroom debate about Constitutional compromises
Encourage critical thinking by organizing a lively classroom debate focused on the major compromises made during the Constitutional Convention. Assign students roles as historical delegates and have them argue for or against key issues like representation or slavery. This strategy builds understanding and empathy for the difficult decisions faced in 1787.
Prepare debate materials and assign delegate roles to students
Gather simple background information on major compromises and print or share brief summaries with each group. Choose delegates such as Madison, Sherman, or Patterson and assign students to represent their views. Ready access to facts helps students confidently participate in debate.
Set clear debate rules and structure
Explain the debate format: opening statements, rebuttals, and closing arguments. Limit speaking time and encourage respectful listening to keep discussion focused and constructive. Structure promotes fairness and ensures all voices are heard.
Facilitate reflection and connect debates to present-day government
After the debate, guide students to reflect on the outcomes and compromises reached. Prompt students to consider how these historical decisions impact today's laws and society. Reflection deepens understanding and links history to current civic life.
Frequently Asked Questions about What is the Constitutional Convention?
What was the main purpose of the Constitutional Convention?
The main purpose of the Constitutional Convention in 1787 was to address the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and create a new framework for government that protected freedom, liberty, and justice while ensuring a stronger, unified nation.
How did compromise shape the outcome of the Constitutional Convention?
Compromise was essential at the Constitutional Convention. Delegates resolved major disagreements—like representation in Congress—by finding middle ground, leading to a government structure that balanced the interests of both large and small states.
Why did the Articles of Confederation fail as a government?
The Articles of Confederation failed because they gave too much power to the states and created a weak central government, lacking effective executive and judicial branches. This left the nation disjointed and vulnerable.
What were the key results of the Constitutional Convention?
The key results of the Constitutional Convention included the drafting of the United States Constitution, establishing a three-branched government, and setting up a system of checks and balances that remains central to American democracy today.
How can teachers use Constitutional Convention lesson plans in the classroom?
Teachers can use Constitutional Convention lesson plans to help students explore the creation and ratification of the Constitution, understand historical compromises, and connect those principles to modern society through engaging activities and discussions.
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