Activity Overview
One of the most important things for students to understand when studying Federalism is the differences between the States and Federal government. This will allow students to understand the divisions between leaders and the changes that were made from the Articles to the Confederation.
A T-Chart is a great way to separate and identify the respective powers of state and federal governments as wel as the ideas surrounding what the function and powers should be. By comparing and contrasting how each government functioned, students will be able to explain the differences between the two and evaluate how strong state governments were compared to the weak federal government under the Articles of Confederation.
Extended Activity
Have students create a T-Chart storyboard to compare and contrast the powers of state governments and federal government of today. Have them pinpoint the same separation of powers in the past, and how such powers have evolved now. Use your own state government to show specific state law and how it contrasts or is the same as federal law.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard identifying the different powers, structure, and strengths/weaknesses of the state and federal governments.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In one column, identify the powers, structures, strengths, and weaknesses of the State government.
- In the other column, do the same for the Federal government.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
One of the most important things for students to understand when studying Federalism is the differences between the States and Federal government. This will allow students to understand the divisions between leaders and the changes that were made from the Articles to the Confederation.
A T-Chart is a great way to separate and identify the respective powers of state and federal governments as wel as the ideas surrounding what the function and powers should be. By comparing and contrasting how each government functioned, students will be able to explain the differences between the two and evaluate how strong state governments were compared to the weak federal government under the Articles of Confederation.
Extended Activity
Have students create a T-Chart storyboard to compare and contrast the powers of state governments and federal government of today. Have them pinpoint the same separation of powers in the past, and how such powers have evolved now. Use your own state government to show specific state law and how it contrasts or is the same as federal law.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard identifying the different powers, structure, and strengths/weaknesses of the state and federal governments.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In one column, identify the powers, structures, strengths, and weaknesses of the State government.
- In the other column, do the same for the Federal government.
- Create illustrations using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about State Government vs. Articles of Confederation
Incorporate current events to make federalism lessons relevant
Bring real-world issues into your classroom by connecting federalism concepts to current events and news stories. This helps students see how the balance between state and federal powers affects their daily lives and encourages engagement with government topics.
Select a recent event highlighting state vs. federal authority
Choose a news article, court case, or policy debate where state and federal governments disagreed or collaborated. Examples include public health mandates, education policies, or environmental laws. This gives students a concrete case to analyze.
Guide students to identify which powers are at play
Ask students to determine which government powers are exercised in the chosen event. Have them use their T-Chart to categorize decisions, actions, or conflicts as state or federal responsibilities.
Facilitate a class discussion on the impact of these powers
Lead a discussion about how the division of powers shapes outcomes. Encourage students to consider the advantages and challenges of the current federal system in resolving the issue.
Encourage students to express their own viewpoints
Invite students to share their opinions on whether the state or federal government should have more authority in the case. This builds critical thinking and helps them articulate informed arguments.
Frequently Asked Questions about State Government vs. Articles of Confederation
What is the difference between state government and the Articles of Confederation?
State governments have their own powers and authority, while the Articles of Confederation created a weak federal government with most power held by the states. Under the Articles, the federal government couldn't enforce laws or collect taxes, making it less effective than state governments.
How can students compare state and federal government powers in a lesson?
Students can use a T-Chart to list the powers, structures, strengths, and weaknesses of both state and federal governments. This visual tool helps them clearly see differences and similarities between the two systems.
Why was the federal government weak under the Articles of Confederation?
The federal government was weak under the Articles of Confederation because it lacked the power to enforce laws, levy taxes, or regulate trade. Most authority stayed with the states, limiting the federal government's effectiveness.
What is a T-Chart and how does it help students learn about federalism?
A T-Chart is a graphic organizer with two columns, often used to compare and contrast ideas. In studying federalism, it helps students visually separate the powers and responsibilities of state and federal governments.
How have the powers of state and federal governments evolved since the Articles of Confederation?
Since the Articles of Confederation, the balance of power has shifted, giving the federal government more authority over time. Today, both state and federal governments share and divide powers, with some areas clearly defined for each.
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