By using this lesson plan, in 2 to 3 class periods students learn not only how legislation is passed in Washington State but also how they can become involved and engage in issues they care about. There are suggested discussion questions, classroom activities, and options for summative assessments that engage students in their local community by examining the effects of new legislation.
Essential Questions:
- How do Washington State Legislators create change within Washington State?
- To what extent does active participation in the legislative process help create positive change in Washington State?
- How does bipartisanship help or hinder the legislative process?
Objectives:
- Understand the nuances of how a bill becomes a law
- Understand how the state legislature works to solve problems for Washingtonians
- Understand how Washingtonians can get involved to enact change
Education Standards
- Middle School
- C2.6-8. 4 Use knowledge of the function of government to analyze and address a political issue.
- C4.6-8.3 Employ strategies for civic involvement that address a state or local issue.
- High School
- C2.11-12.1 Analyze citizens’ and institutions’ effectiveness in addressing social and political problems at the local, state, tribal, national and/or international level.
- C4.11-12.2 Analyze and evaluate ways of influencing local, state, and national governments and international organizations to establish or preserve individual rights and/or promote the common good.
About this Lesson Plan
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The lessons are designed to be used as written OR teachers can use them part and parcel and choose the components that work best for their students and classroom time.
Teacher Guide 
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