Activity Overview
The legislative branch, or Congress, is responsible for making the laws. Congress is made up of two parts: the Senate and the House of Representatives. In order to understand how the government works, it is important for students to know the roles of each of these legislative bodies. Comparing and contrasting is a great way for students to grasp the differences, and better understand the process of creating laws. For this activity, students will create a chart comparing the Senate and the House. To differentiate, teachers may can provide students with a list of areas to compare, and have them choose.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a chart comparing the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Student Instructions
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Write a title in each heading.
- Write a short summary of each heading in the space below the illustration.
- Create an illustration that represents each heading using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
The legislative branch, or Congress, is responsible for making the laws. Congress is made up of two parts: the Senate and the House of Representatives. In order to understand how the government works, it is important for students to know the roles of each of these legislative bodies. Comparing and contrasting is a great way for students to grasp the differences, and better understand the process of creating laws. For this activity, students will create a chart comparing the Senate and the House. To differentiate, teachers may can provide students with a list of areas to compare, and have them choose.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a chart comparing the Senate and the House of Representatives.
Student Instructions
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Write a title in each heading.
- Write a short summary of each heading in the space below the illustration.
- Create an illustration that represents each heading using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about The Senate and the House of Representatives
Organize a Mock Debate Between the Senate and House
Engage your students by splitting the class into two groups, each representing either the Senate or the House of Representatives. Assign each group a simple law or classroom rule to debate from their chamber's perspective. This hands-on activity helps students experience the legislative process and understand the unique roles of each body.
Assign students distinct legislative roles
Give each student a specific role, such as Majority Leader, Minority Leader, or Committee Chair, to deepen understanding of congressional structure. Rotating roles keeps engagement high and exposes students to different responsibilities.
Guide research on real-life recent bills
Ask students to find a recent bill and identify how both the Senate and House contributed to its passage. Encourage them to highlight differences in debate, voting, and amendment processes between chambers.
Facilitate a comparison reflection discussion
Lead a whole-class discussion where students share their mock debate experiences and reflect on the distinct functions of each legislative body. Use prompting questions to help them connect the activity to real-world government processes.
Frequently Asked Questions about The Senate and the House of Representatives
What is the difference between the Senate and the House of Representatives?
The Senate and the House of Representatives are the two chambers of Congress. The Senate has 100 members (2 per state), serves longer terms, and focuses on national issues, while the House has 435 members based on state population and is designed to represent local districts with shorter terms.
How can I teach students to compare the Senate and the House of Representatives?
Use a comparison chart activity where students list differences and similarities between the Senate and House. Encourage them to use headings, write summaries, and create illustrations for each chamber to deepen understanding.
What are some key areas to compare between the Senate and the House?
Key areas include number of members, term lengths, qualifications, powers, and the way members are elected. These help students see how each chamber functions within Congress.
Why is it important for students to understand both the Senate and the House?
Understanding both chambers helps students grasp how laws are made and how government represents people at different levels. It supports civics education and prepares students to be informed citizens.
What is an easy classroom activity to explain the roles of the Senate and House?
Have students create a chart or Venn diagram comparing the Senate and House, then illustrate each chamber with drawings or scenes. This makes abstract concepts more concrete and engaging.
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