Activity Overview
At the start of any introductory unit, students should first understand the different forms of government that exist. It's helpful for them to have an easy reference that they can look back on later on, during both this unit and other history units. For this activity, students will create a spider map that defines and represents each type of government. Students should represent how power is distributed either symbolically or through the representation of governmental figures.
Example Forms of Government
- Direct Democracy
- Representative Democracy
- Monarchy
- Dictatorship
- Anarchy
- Oligarchy
- Theocracy
- Republic
- Bureaucracy
- Totalitarian
Extended Activity
Students should present their spider map to their peers, with the goal of ranking each government from most favorable to least favorable, in terms of which ones they would want to be a part of. Students can number each government representation storyboard to guide them in their presentation.
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 spider map that defines the different forms of government.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify each type of government.
- In the description boxes, provide a summary of the government.
- Create an illustration to represent each type of government using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
At the start of any introductory unit, students should first understand the different forms of government that exist. It's helpful for them to have an easy reference that they can look back on later on, during both this unit and other history units. For this activity, students will create a spider map that defines and represents each type of government. Students should represent how power is distributed either symbolically or through the representation of governmental figures.
Example Forms of Government
- Direct Democracy
- Representative Democracy
- Monarchy
- Dictatorship
- Anarchy
- Oligarchy
- Theocracy
- Republic
- Bureaucracy
- Totalitarian
Extended Activity
Students should present their spider map to their peers, with the goal of ranking each government from most favorable to least favorable, in terms of which ones they would want to be a part of. Students can number each government representation storyboard to guide them in their presentation.
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 spider map that defines the different forms of government.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify each type of government.
- In the description boxes, provide a summary of the government.
- Create an illustration to represent each type of government using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about What is Government?
Incorporate real-world government examples to deepen understanding
Help students connect abstract concepts to the real world by providing actual countries or historical events that exemplify each form of government. This makes definitions more concrete and relatable for learners.
Guide students to research and present a current event related to a government type
Encourage students to find a news article or story that illustrates a form of government in action today. This fosters engagement and shows the relevance of government structures in daily life.
Prompt students to compare and contrast two government types
Ask students to identify similarities and differences between two forms of government, using a Venn diagram or a simple list. This strengthens critical thinking and deepens their grasp of key concepts.
Facilitate a classroom debate on the merits of different governments
Organize students into small groups and have each group defend one form of government in a friendly debate. This activity boosts speaking skills and encourages students to consider multiple perspectives.
Assess understanding with a quick formative quiz or exit ticket
After the lesson, provide a short quiz or ask students to list the key features of at least two government types before leaving. This helps you gauge comprehension and address any lingering confusion.
Frequently Asked Questions about What is Government?
What are the main types of government students should know?
Main types of government include direct democracy, representative democracy, monarchy, dictatorship, anarchy, oligarchy, theocracy, republic, bureaucracy, and totalitarian systems. Understanding these helps students recognize how power is distributed in societies.
How can I teach forms of government to middle school students in a simple way?
A spider map activity is an easy and visual method for middle schoolers to learn forms of government. Students define each type, add a summary, and illustrate them, making concepts memorable and engaging.
What is a spider map and how is it used in teaching government?
A spider map is a graphic organizer where students place the central topic (like 'Government') in the center and branch out to define and illustrate each form of government. This tool helps organize information clearly and visually.
Why is it important for students to compare different forms of government?
Comparing different forms of government encourages critical thinking about power, rights, and society. It helps students understand the pros and cons of each system and form their own opinions about governance.
What are some creative ways students can present their understanding of government types?
Students can present spider maps to peers, rank governments from most to least favorable, or use storyboards and illustrations to creatively show how each government works. These methods boost engagement and comprehension.
More Storyboard That Activities
Introduction to Government
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