Proposed K-12 Civics and Government Standards

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Proposed K-12 Civics and Government Standards

Kindergarten
Standard 1 SS.K.CL.1: Foundations of Government, Law and the American Political System
SS.K.CL.1.1 Identify the purpose for rules and laws in the home, school and community.
● Students will define rules as standards of responsible behavior (e.g., rules for home and school).
● Students will define laws as a system of rules intended to protect people and property which are created and enforced by government (e.g., follow the speed limit).
● Students will identify the difference between rules and laws.
● Students will identify what happens without rules and laws.
SS.K.CL.1.2 Define a constitution as an agreed-upon set of rules.
● Students will recognize that the United States has a constitution.
● Students will identify the words “We the People” as found in the United States Constitution.
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Standard 2 SS.K.CL.2: Civic and Political Participation
SS.K.CL.2.1 Describe and demonstrate the characteristics of being a responsible citizen.
● Students will identify current and historical examples of responsible citizenship.
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● Students will demonstrate that conflicts among friends can be resolved in ways which are consistent with being a responsible citizen.
● Students will explain why it is important to take responsibility for one’s actions.
SS.K.CL.2.2 Describe ways for groups to make decisions, such as voting, taking turns, negotiating or holding meetings.
● Students will identify current and historical examples of responsible decisions.
SS.K.CL.2.3 Define patriotism as a love of one’s country.
● Students will identify the patriotic holidays and observances (e.g., American Founders Month, Celebrate Freedom Week, Independence Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial
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Day, Patriot Day, Veterans Day).
SS.K.CL.2.4 Recognize symbols that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the American flag, Pledge of Allegiance and United States currency as symbols that represent the United States.
justice for all” as the Pledge of Allegiance.

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● Students will identify “I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and
SS.K.CL.2.5 Recognize symbols that represent Florida.

● Students will recognize Florida's state flag as a symbol that represents the state.
Grade 1
Standard 1 SS.1.CL.1: Foundations of Government, Law and the American Political System
SS.1.CL.1.1 Explain the purpose of rules and laws in the home, school and community.
● Students will explain the role that rules and laws play in their daily life.
● Students will explain the difference between rules and laws.
● Students will explain what happens in the absence of rules and laws.
SS.1.CL.1.2 Identify people who have the authority and power to make and enforce rules and laws.
● Students will identify authority figures in their school and community including but not limited to parents, teachers and law enforcement officers.
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● Students will provide examples of people who make and enforce rules and laws in Florida (e.g., state legislature and governor) and the United States (e.g., congress and president).
● Students will explain the responsibilities of people in authority and with power (e.g., do not abuse power).
Standard 2 SS.1.CL.2: Civic and Political Participation
SS.1.CL.2.1 Explain the rights and responsibilities students have in the school community.
● Students will identify the rights (e.g., treated with respect and physically safe learning environment) and responsibilities (e.g., come to school on time and do not damage school
property) students have as members of their school community.
● Students will define rights as freedoms protected by laws and in the school community, freedoms protected by rules.
● Students will define responsibilities as things responsible citizens should do in order to benefit the community.
SS.1.CL.2.2 Describe the characteristics of citizenship in the school community.
● Students will identify characteristics of responsible citizenship (e.g., respect others’ property, treat people with dignity, serve as careful stewards of their land, treat animals with
kindness).
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● Students will identify characteristics of irresponsible citizenship (e.g., damaging school property).
SS.1.CL.2.3 Recognize ways citizens can demonstrate patriotism.
● Students will discuss how to show respect for the Pledge of Allegiance.
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● Students will learn how to display and dispose of the American flag.
● Students will discuss how to respectfully demonstrate patriotism during patriotic holidays and observances (e.g., American Founders Month, Celebrate Freedom Week,
Independence Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Patriot Day, Veterans Day).
SS.1.CL.2.4 Recognize symbols and individuals that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the Bald Eagle, the United States President, Uncle Sam, and national motto (“In God We Trust”) as symbols that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize Benjamin Franklin, George Washington and Martin Luther King, Jr. as individuals who represent the United States.
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SS.1.CL.2.5 Recognize symbols and individuals that represent Florida.
● Students will recognize that the state motto (“In God We Trust”) and the state nickname (“The Sunshine State”) are symbols that represents Florida.
● Students will identify the current Florida governor and recognize the governor as an individual who represents the state.
Standard 3 SS.1.CL.3: Structure and Functions of Government.
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SS.1.CL.3.1 Explain responsible ways for individuals and groups to make decisions.
● Students will describe current and historical examples of decision making and conflict resolution.
● Students will demonstrate characteristics of responsible decision making.
● Students will explain how multiple perspectives contribute to the unity of the United States.
SS.1.CL.3.2 Recognize that the United States and Florida have Constitutions.
 Students will define a constitution as an agreed-upon set of rules.
Grade 2
SS.2.CL.1.1 Explain why people form governments.
● Students will explain the role of laws in government.
● Students will define and provide examples of laws at the state and national levels.
● Students will use scenarios to identify the impact of government on daily life.
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SS.2.CL.1.2 Explain the consequences of an absence of rules and laws.

● Students will provide examples of rules and laws in their lives and in society at large.
● Students will recognize that disorder, injustice and harm to people will occur when there is an absence of rules and laws.
SS.2.CL.2.3 Recognize that the Declaration of Independence, United States Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantees and protects the rights of its citizens and individual liberty.
● Students will identify how the ideals contained in the Declaration of Independence, United States Constitution and Bill of Rights affect their daily life.
SS.2.CL.2.1 Identify the constitutional means of becoming a United States citizen.
● Students will define and identify birthright citizenship, permanent residency and naturalization.
SS.2.CL.2.2 Describe and apply the characteristics of responsible citizenship.
● Students will identify responsible citizenship including but not limited to, voting, obeying laws, volunteerism, observing patriotic holidays, petitioning the government.
● Students will apply their knowledge of responsible citizenship to provide examples of participation.
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● Identify the contributions of the diverse individuals and groups that contribute to civic life in the United States and Florida.
SS.2.CL.2.3 Describe the characteristics of responsible citizenship at the local and state levels.
● Students will identify characteristics of responsible citizenship (e.g., peaceable assembly, obeying the law, community involvement).
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● Students will identify characteristics of irresponsible citizenship (e.g., disorderly assembly, breaking the law).
SS.2.CL.2.4 Compare various ways that citizens can demonstrate patriotism.
● Students will distinguish the words of the Pledge of Allegiance from other texts.
● Students will compare various methods for recognizing a patriotic holiday or observance (e.g., American Founders Month, Celebrate Freedom Week, Independence Day, Martin
Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Patriot Day, Veterans Day).
SS.2.CL.2.5 Recognize symbols, individuals and documents that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the United States Capitol, the White House, and the United States Supreme Court building as symbols that represent the United States.
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● Students will recognize Rosa Parks and Thomas Jefferson as individuals who represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the Declaration of Independence as a document that represents the United States.
SS.2.CL.2.6 Recognize symbols, individuals and documents that represent Florida.
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● Students will recognize the Florida State Capitol and the Everglades National Park as symbols of Florida.
● Students will recognize Congressman Josiah T. Walls and Marjory Stoneman Douglas as individuals who represent Florida.
● Students will recognize the Florida Constitution as a document that represents Florida.
Standard 3 SS.2.CL.3: Structure and Functions of Government
SS.2.CL.3.1 Recognize that the Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the land.
● Students will recognize the relationship between the Constitution of the United States and its citizens.
● Students will recognize the relationship between the Constitution of the United States and the states.
● Students will identify the United States Constitution as the document which establishes the structure, function, powers and limits of the American government.
SS.2.CL.3.2 Identify the United States as a constitutional republic.
● Students will recognize that the United States Constitution is one of the oldest national constitutions in the world.
● Students will recognize that the equal rights of citizens are inherent in the United States constitutional republic.
Grade 3
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Standard 1 SS.3.CL.1: Foundations of Government Law and the American Political System
SS.3.CL.1.1 Explain the purpose and need for government.
● Students will explain the purpose and need for government in terms of security, organization, services and protection of rights.
SS.3.CL.1.2 Describe how the United States government gains its power from the people.
● Students will define popular sovereignty.
● Students will recognize what is meant by the consent of the governed.
● Students will identify sources of consent (e.g., voting and elections).
● Students will recognize that the United States republic is government by the “consent of the governed” and government power is exercised through representatives of the people.
SS.3.CL.1.3 Recognize that the United States government was established through a written Constitution.
● Students will explain the function and purpose of a written constitution within a system of government.
● Students will understand the relationship between the government and a written constitution.
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SS.3.CL.2.1 Describe how citizens demonstrate civility, cooperation, volunteerism and other civic virtues.
● Students will identify group and individual actions including, but not limited to, food drives, book drives, community clean-ups, voting, blood donation drives, volunteer fire
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departments and neighborhood watch programs.
SS.3.CL.2.2 Describe the importance of voting in elections.
● Students will recognize that it is every citizen’s responsibility to vote.
● Students will describe the importance of voting in a republic.
SS.3.CL.2.3 Explain the history and meaning behind patriotic holidays and observances.
● Patriotic holidays and observances include, but are not limited to American Founders Month, Celebrate Freedom Week, Independence Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial
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Day, Patriot Day, and Veterans Day.
SS.3.CL.2.4 Recognize symbols, individuals, documents and events that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the Statue of Liberty and Mount Rushmore as symbols that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize Alexander Hamilton, James Madison and Susan B. Anthony as individuals who represent the United States.
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● Students will recognize the Preamble to the United States Constitution as a document that represents the United States.
● Students will recognize the Constitutional Convention (May 1787 – September 1787) and the signing of the United States Constitution (September 17, 1787) as events that
represent the United States.
SS.3.CL.2.5 Recognize symbols, individuals, documents and events that represent Florida.
● Students will recognize the Great Seal of the Florida as a symbol that represents the state.
● Students will recognize William Pope Duval and William Dunn Moseley as individuals who represent Florida.
● Students will recognize the Declaration of Rights in the Florida Constitution as a document that represents Florida.
● Students will recognize that Florida became the 27th state of the United States on March 3, 1845.
SS.3.CL.3.1 Recognize that the government has local, state and federal levels.
● Students will distinguish between the responsibilities of the local, state and federal government.
SS.3.CL.3.2 Recognize how government is organized at the local level.
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● Students will identify how government is organized at the local level including, but not limited to, legislative branch (city commission), executive branch (mayor) and judicial
branch (county and circuit courts).
● Students will understand that the local level of government has its own unique structure and responsibilities.
SS.3.CL.3.3 Recognize that every state has its own state constitution.
● Students will differentiate between a state constitution and the federal constitution.
● Students will identify ways that a state constitution governs its citizens.
SS.3.CL.3.4 Explain that the United States Constitution and the Florida Constitution establish the framework for national and state government.
● Students will describe the purpose of the United States Constitution and the Florida Constitution.
● Students will describe how the United States and Florida Constitutions establish the structure, function, powers and limits of government.
● Students will recognize that the United States Constitution is the supreme law of the land.
Grade 4
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Standard 1 SS.4.CL.1: Foundations of Government Law and the American Political System
SS.4.CL.1.1 Describe the purpose of the Florida Constitution.
● Students will recognize the authority of the Florida Constitution for the state, as well as recognize the relationship between federal and state governments.
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● Students will describe the Florida Constitution as protecting the rights of citizens.
● Students will show, using examples, how elements of the Florida Constitution guide the structure, function and purposes of state government.
SS.4.CL.1.2 Recognize that the Florida government was established through a written Constitution.
● Students will explain the function and purpose of a written constitution within a system of government.
● Students will understand the relationship between the government and a written constitution.
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SS.4.CL.2.1 Identify and describe ways citizens work together to influence government and help solve community and state problems.
● Students will explain how public issues, such as the taxation, roads, zoning and schools, impact citizens’ daily lives.
● Students will describe how citizens, including children, can help solve community and state problems. Examples may include, but are not limited to, voting, petitioning,
conservation and recycling.
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● Students will discuss public issues in Florida that impact the daily lives of its citizens.
SS.4.CL.2.2 Explain the importance of public service, voting and volunteerism.
● Students will recognize every American’s civic responsibility to express their voice in their community through voting and to show their patriotism through action to preserve the
republic.
● Students will discuss different types of public service and volunteerism.
SS.4.CL.2.3 Identify ways Florida citizens can show respect for their state.
● Students will recognize ways for showing respect for Florida (e.g., cleaning up litter, showing care for wildlife, keeping waterways clean, putting flags on veterans’ graves,
cleaning graffiti from public spaces and tending public gardens).
SS.4.CL.2.4 Recognize individuals that represent Florida, and identify the local state senator and state representatives.
 Students will identify proper methods for communicating with elected officials.
SS.4.CL.3.1 Identify the Legislative, Executive and Judicial branches of government in Florida and the powers of each.
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● Students will compare the powers of Florida’s three branches of government.

● Students will identify actions associated with each of Florida’s branches of government.
SS.4.CL.3.2 Compare the structure and authority of state and local government.
● Students will identify roles in local government, such as mayor and city commissioner and state government such as governor, state representative or senator.
● Students will compare and contrast the power of state and local government officials.
SS.4.CL.3.3 Identify the United States as a constitutional republic.
● Students will identify a constitutional republic as a symbol of the United States.
● Students will recognize that Florida has a representative government.
Grade 5
SS.5.CL.1.1 Explain how and why the United States government was created by the United States Constitution.
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● Students will identify the strengths and weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
● Students will explain the goals of the 1787 Constitutional Convention.
● Students will describe the compromises made during the writing of the Constitution.
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● Students will recognize that the Framers created the structure for the United States government.
SS.5.CL.1.2 Recognize that every United States citizen has rights.
● Students will identify John Locke and explain how his philosophy influenced the founders.
● Students will identify the grievances detailed in the Declaration of Independence.
● Students will discuss the consequences of not having rights.
● Students will explain how the application of checks and balances, consent of the governed, democracy, due process of law, federalism, individual rights, limited government,
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representative government, republicanism, rule of law and separation of powers distinguishes the United States constitutional republic from authoritarian and totalitarian nations.
SS.5.CL.1.3 Describe the history, meaning and significance of the Bill of Rights.
● Students will describe how concerns about individual rights led to the inclusion of the Bill of Rights in the United States Constitution.
● Students will explain the philosophical and practical concerns that led to the addition of the Bill of Rights.
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SS.5.CL.1.4 Discuss arguments for adopting a republican form of government.
● Students will identify Federalist and Anti-Federalist arguments supporting and opposing the ratification of the United States Constitution.
● Students will explain what is meant by a representative government.
SS.5.CL.2.1 Discuss the political ideas of Patriots, Loyalists and “undecideds” about the war for independence.
● Students will categorize political ideas of Patriots, Loyalists and “undecideds.”
● Students will explain why colonists would choose to side with the British during the American Revolution.
● Students will describe the political philosophy of American Patriots and why those ideas led them to declare independence from the British Empire.
● Students will examine the potential motivations behind the “undecided” decision to avoid taking a side during the American Revolution.
SS.5.CL.2.2 Compare forms of political participation in the colonial period to today.
● Students will describe forms of political participation in the colonial period (e.g., serving on juries, militia service and participation in elections for government.)
● Students will identify ways citizens participate in the political process today.
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SS.5.CL.2.3 Analyze how the United States Constitution expanded civic participation over time.
 Students will explain that the United States Constitution expanded voting rights through amendments and legislation including, but not limited to, the 19th, 24th and 26th
Amendments and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
SS.5.CL.2.4 Evaluate the importance of civic responsibilities to a constitutional republic.
● Students will identify responsibilities citizens are expected to fulfill (e.g., respecting the law, voting, serving on a jury, paying taxes, keeping informed on public issues and
peaceable assembly).
SS.5.CL.2.5 Identify what it means to go beyond basic civic and political responsibilities.
● Students will explain the importance of going beyond civic and political responsibilities to improve government and society (e.g., running for office, initiating changes in laws or
public policy, working on political campaigns and working with others on civic issues).
● Students will describe what could happen to the republic if citizens did not participate beyond basic civic and political responsibilities.
● Students will explain the significance of the Pledge of Allegiance to United States citizens.
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SS.5.CL.2.6 Identify Florida’s United States senators and the United States representative for your district.
 Students will discuss proper methods for communicating with elected officials.
SS.5.CL.2.7 Explain symbols, individuals, documents and events that represent the United States.
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● Students will recognize the Great Seal of the United States and the Star-Spangled Banner as symbols that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass as individuals who represent the United States.
● Students will recognize the Bill of Rights and the
Emancipation Proclamation as documents that represent the United States.
● Students will recognize Emancipation Day in Florida (May 20) and Juneteenth (June 19) as events that represent the United States.
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SS.5.CL.3.1 Describe the organizational structure and powers of the federal government as defined in Articles I, II and III of the United States Constitution.
● Students will identify responsibilities of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the United States government as defined in Articles I, II and III of the United States
Constitution.
● Students will explain why the Constitution divided the federal government into three branches.
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SS.5.CL.3.2 Explain concepts in the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights that limit the power of the federal government.
● Concepts may include but are not limited to popular sovereignty, rule of law, separation of powers, checks and balances, federalism, and individual rights.
● Students will describe why the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights were written to limit the powers of the federal government.
SS.5.CL.3.3 Recognize the relationship between the federal and state governments.
● Students will provide examples of powers granted to the federal government and those reserved for the states. Examples may include, but are not limited to, coining money,
declaring war, creating public schools, making traffic laws, education and the postal service.
● Students will explain the relationship between the United States and Florida governments.
SS.5.CL.3.4 Describe the process for amending the United States Constitution.
● Students will explain why the writers of the United States Constitution included Article V. Examples may include, but are not limited to, the Bill of Rights, the 26th Amendment
and how the United States Constitution was designed to be changed.
● Students will identify changes to the United States Constitution.
SS.5.CL.3.5 Discuss how the Bill of Rights protects citizens from an oppressive government.
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● Students will identify the fundamental rights of citizens as provided in the Bill of Rights.
SS.5.CL.3.6 Examine the foundations of the United States’ legal system.
● Students will recognize the role of the courts in interpreting law and settling conflicts.
● Students will identify the Supreme Court as the highest court in the United States.
● Students will identify the constitutional basis for the court system.
SS.5.CL.3.7 Explain how the United States Constitution influenced the Florida Constitution.
● Students will identify the purpose of a constitution (e.g., provides a framework for government, limits government authority, protects the rights of the people).
● Students will recognize the basic outline of the United States and Florida Constitutions (both have articles, amendments and preambles).
SS.5.CL.3.8 Examine the functions and relationships in a civil government.
● Students will identify the primary functions of and interrelationships between the federal government, the state and its counties, municipalities, school districts, and special districts.
SS.5.CL.3.9 Recognize the role Florida plays in the United States government.
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● Students will identify the current United States Senators from Florida and their current United States House Representative.
● Students will recognize that the current United States Senators from Florida and their United States House Representative are individuals who represent Florida in the federal
government.
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● Students will explain why both the United States and Florida have a Supreme Court.
● Students will explain the relationship between the Florida governor and the federal government.
Grade 6
Standard 1 SS.6.CL.1: Demonstrate an understanding of the origins and purposes of government, law and the American political system.
SS.6.CL.1.1 Identify democratic concepts developed in ancient Greece that served as a foundation for the United States as a constitutional republic.
● Students will identify and explain the democratic principles of government in ancient Greece.
● Students will compare and contrast the political systems of ancient Greece and modern-day United States.
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● Students will recognize the influence of ancient Greece on the American political process.
SS.6.CL.1.2 Identify concepts developed in the Roman Republic that served as a foundation for the United States’ constitutional republic.
● Students will compare and contrast the political systems of the Roman Republic and modern-day United States.
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● Students will recognize the influence of the Roman Republic on the American political process.
SS.6.CL.1.3 Discuss rule of law in the ancient world and its influence on the United States constitutional republic.
● Origins include, but are not limited to the contributions of ancient Greek and ancient Roman civilizations.
● Students will recognize that the rule of law is a foundational principle of the United States government.
SS.6.CL.1.4 Recognize examples of leadership and civic virtue in the ancient world.
● Students will analyze the influence of significant leaders (e.g., Marcus Tullius Cicero; Marcus Aurelius; Pericles; Solon; Cleisthenes) on civic participation and governance in the
ancient world.
Grade 7
SS.7.CL.1.1 Identify the diverse intellectual influences on American political and constitutional traditions.
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● Students will recognize intellectual influences to include, but not limited to religion (Hebraic and Christian), republicanism (ancient and classical), the Enlightenment (e.g.,
questioning of traditional authority), English law (e.g., Magna Carta), and colonial era ideas on government (e.g., The Laws of Virginia (1610-1611), the Mayflower Compact
(1620); The Massachusetts Body of Liberties (1641)).
SS.7.CL.1.2 Trace the impact of democratic concepts developed in ancient Greece and the Roman Republic that served as foundational principles for America’s constitutional republic.
● Students will describe the democratic principles of government (e.g., civic participation, legislative bodies, polis, voting rights, written constitution) in ancient Greece.
● Students will describe the democratic principles of government in ancient Rome (e.g., civic participation, republicanism, representative government, rule of law, separation of
powers).
● Students will recognize democratic principles such as civic participation and the role of government, seen in the democracies of ancient Greece and the Roman Republic, and note
their impact on foundational principles of American government.
● Students will compare and contrast the democratic principles of ancient Greece and Rome with those of the United States.
● Students will analyze the degree of civic participation inherent in these civilizations.
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SS.7.CL.1.3 Explain the influence of religion (Hebraic and Christian) on America’s founding ideas about law and government.
● Students will recognize ideas contained in the founding documents (e.g., due process of law, equality of mankind, limited government, natural rights, the rule of law) have origins
in religious texts.
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● Students will identify “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness” as God-given rights expressed in the Declaration of Independence.
● Students will explain what is meant by the phrase “all men are created equal and that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights…” as expressed in the
Declaration of Independence.
● Students will describe how religious ideas (e.g., due process of law, equality of mankind, limited government, natural rights, the rule of law) influenced America’s Founding ideals
and documents.
SS.7.CL.1.4 Trace the impact that the Magna Carta, English Bill of Rights, Mayflower Compact, and Thomas Paine's "Common Sense" had on colonists' views of government.
● Students will identify the important ideas contained in the Magna Carta (e.g., due process of law, limitation of government power, right to justice, right to fair trial), English Bill of
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Rights (e.g., right to life, liberty and property; no taxation without representation; right to a speedy and fair jury trial; no excessive punishments; habeas corpus), Mayflower
Compact (e.g., consent of the governed, self-government), and Common Sense (representative self-government).
● Students will evaluate the impact that the Magna Carta, English Bill of Rights, Mayflower Compact, and Common Sense had on the purposes of government.
influenced the Founding Fathers.

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SS.7.CL.1.5 Recognize how Enlightenment ideas including Montesquieu's view of separation of power and John Locke's theories related to natural law and how Locke's social contract
● Students will identify and describe the Enlightenment ideas of separation of powers, natural law and social contract.
● Students will examine how Enlightenment ideas influenced the Founders’ beliefs about individual liberties and government.
● Students will evaluate the influence of Montesquieu’s and Locke’s ideas on the Founding Fathers.
SS.7.CL.1.6 Describe how English policies and responses to colonial concerns led to the writing of the Declaration of Independence.
● Students will trace the causal relationships between English/British policies, English responses to colonial grievances and the writing of the Declaration of Independence (e.g.,
Stamp Act, Quartering Act, Declaratory Act, Townshend Acts, Tea Act, Intolerable Acts).
● Students will recognize the underlying themes of English colonial policies concerning taxation, representation and individual rights that formed the basis of the American colonists’
desire for independence.
SS.7.CL.1.7 Analyze the ideas and complaints set forth in the Declaration of Independence.
● Students will identify the natural rights specifically expressed in the Preamble of the Declaration of Independence (e.g., life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness).
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● Students will explain the concept of natural rights as expressed in the Declaration of Independence.
● Students will recognize natural rights, social contract, limited government and the right of resistance to tyrannical government.
● Students will analyze the relationship between natural rights and the role of government: 1. People are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights; 2. Governments are
instituted among men to secure these rights; 3. Governments derive their just powers from the consent of governed; and 4. Whenever any form of government becomes destructive
of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it and to institute new government.
● Students will recognize the connection between specific grievances in the Declaration of Independence and natural rights violations. Students will recognize colonial complaints as
identified in the Declaration of Independence (e.g., imposing taxes without the consent of the people, suspending trial by jury, limiting judicial powers, quartering soldiers and
dissolving legislatures).
SS.7.CL.1.8 Identify how the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation led to the writing of the U.S. Constitution.
 Students will identify the weaknesses of the government under the Articles of Confederation (i.e., Congress had no power to tax, to regulate trade or to enforce its laws; the national
government lacked a national court system [judicial branch] and central leadership [executive branch]; no federal armed forces; and changes to the Articles required unanimous
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consent of the 13 states).
SS.7.CL.1.9 Explain the purpose of the Preamble to the United States Constitution.
● Students will define the term “constitution” and identify the key purposes for and essential features of a constitution of government.
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● Students will explain how the Preamble serves as an introduction to the United States Constitution, establishing the goals and purposes of government.
● Students will identify the goals and purposes of government as set forth in the Preamble to the United States Constitution (i.e., form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure
domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity).
● Students will recognize that the intention of the phrase “We the People” means that government depends on the people for its power and exists to serve them.
SS.7.CL.1.10 Describe how the United States Constitution limits the powers of government through separation of powers, checks and balances, individual rights, rule of law and due
process of law.
● Students will explain the concept of limited government as set forth in the United States Constitution.
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● Students will describe and distinguish between the concepts of separation of powers and checks and balances.
● Students will analyze how government power is limited by separation of powers and/or checks and balances.
● Students will recognize examples of separation of powers and checks and balances.
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● Students will recognize that the formalizing the principles of separation of powers, checks and balances, individual rights, rule of law and due process of law in a national
constitution was unprecedented for late eighteenth century government's and had worldwide impact in influencing other Nation's future constitutions.
SS.7.CL.1.11 Compare the viewpoints of the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists regarding ratification of the United States Constitution and inclusion of a bill of rights.
● Students will identify the viewpoints of the Federalists and the Anti-Federalists about the ratification of the United States Constitution.
● Students will recognize the Anti-Federalists’ reasons for the inclusion of a bill of rights in the United States Constitution.
SS.7.C.1.12 Define the rule of law and recognize its influence on the development of legal, political and governmental systems in the United States.
● Students will distinguish between the characteristics of a society that operates under the rule of law and one that does not.
● Students will assess the importance of the rule of law in protecting citizens from arbitrary and abusive uses of government power.
● Students will evaluate the impact of the rule of law on governmental officials and institutions (e.g., accountability to the law, consistent application and enforcement of the law,
decisions based on the law, fair procedures, and transparency of institutions).
Standard 2 SS.7.CL.2: Evaluate the roles, rights, and responsibilities of United States citizens, and determine methods of active participation in society, government and the
political system.
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SS.7.CL.2.1 Define the term “citizen,” and identify the constitutional means of becoming a United States citizen.
● Students will define citizenship as stated in the 14th Amendment.
● Students will describe the process of becoming a naturalized citizen.
● Students will define permanent residency and describe its role in obtaining citizenship.
● Students will evaluate the impact of the naturalization process on society, government and the political process.
SS.7.CL.2.2 Differentiate between obligations and responsibilities of United States citizenship, and evaluate their impact on society.
● Students will distinguish between an obligation or duty and a responsibility as it relates to citizenship. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, voting, attending civic
meetings, petitioning government and running for office.
● Students will recognize the concepts of the common good and private good as a rationales for fulfilling the obligations and/or responsibilities of citizenship.
● Students will evaluate the obligations and/or responsibilities of citizens as they relate to active participation in society and government.
● Students will use scenarios to assess specific obligations of citizens.
T
● Students will identify the consequences or predict the outcome on society of citizens who do not fulfill their citizenship responsibilities.
● Students will evaluate the impact of civic participation on society, government and the political process.
SS.7.CL.2.3 Identify and apply the rights contained in the Bill of Rights and other amendments to the United States Constitution.
AF
● Students will recognize that the Bill of Rights comprises the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution.
● Students will recognize the five freedoms protected by the 1st Amendment.
● Students will evaluate how the Bill of Rights and other amendments influence individual actions and social interactions.
● Students will use scenarios to identify rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
● Students will use scenarios to recognize violations of the Bill of Rights or other constitutional amendments.
SS.7.CL.2.4 Explain how the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights safeguards and limits individual rights.
● Students will recognize that rights are protected, but are not unlimited (e.g., property rights, economic rights, civil disobedience).
R
● Students will examine rationales for government-imposed limitations on individual rights (e.g., forced internment in wartime, limitations on speech rationing during wartime,
suspension of habeas corpus).
● Students will use scenarios to examine the impact of limiting individual rights on social behavior.
D
● Students will examine the role of the judicial branch of government in protecting and limiting individual rights and freedoms.
SS.7.CL.2.5 Describe the trial process and the role of juries in the administration of justice.
● Students will examine the significance of the role of juries in the American legal system.
● Students will explain types of jury trials, how juries are selected and why jury trials are important.
SS.7.CL.2.6 Compare the election and voting process at the community, local, state and federal levels.
● Students will explain how elections and voting impacts citizens at the community, local, state and federal levels.
● Students will explain how maintaining the integrity of the voting process promotes trust and the preservation of democratic institutions.
SS.7.CL.2.7 Identify the constitutional qualifications required to hold federal and state office.
● Students will recognize the requirements to run for state and local political offices.
SS.7.CL.2.8 Examine the impact of media, individuals, and interest groups on monitoring and influencing government.
● Students will identify methods used by the media to monitor and/or influence the government (e.g., acting as a watchdog, freedom of the press as contained in the 1st Amendment).
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● Students will identify methods used by individuals to monitor and/or influence the government (e.g., attending civic meetings, peacefully protesting, petitioning the government,
running for office, voting).
● Students will evaluate the impact of media, individuals, and interest groups on the government.
● Students will identify and evaluate methods of influencing and/or monitoring government.
SS.7.CL.2.9 Analyze media and political communications and identify examples of bias, symbolism and propaganda.
● Students will use scenarios to identify bias, symbolism and propaganda.
● Students will evaluate how bias, symbolism and propaganda can impact public opinion.
SS.7.CL.2.10 Explain the process for citizens to address a state or local problem by researching public policy alternatives, identifying appropriate government agencies to address the issue
and determining a course of action.
● Students will identify the appropriate level of government to resolve specific problems.
● Students will identify appropriate government agencies to address state or local problems.
T
● Students will analyze public policy alternatives to resolve state and local problems.
Standard 3 SS.7.CL.3: Demonstrate an understanding of the principles, functions and organization of government.
SS.7.CL.3.1 Analyze the advantages of the United States constitutional republic over other forms of government in safeguarding liberty, freedom and a representative government.
AF
● Students will apply their understanding of various forms of government (e.g., republic, democracy, monarchy, oligarchy, theocracy, autocracy).
● Students will identify different forms of government based on its political philosophy or organizational structure.
● Students will analyze scenarios describing various forms of government.
SS.7.CL.3.2 Explain the advantages of a federal system of government over other systems in balancing local sovereignty with national unity and protecting against authoritarianism.
● Students will apply their understanding of federal, confederal and unitary systems of government.
R
● Students will compare the organizational structures of systems of government.
● Students will recognize examples of these systems of government.
● Students will analyze scenarios describing various systems of government.
established in the United States Constitution.

D
SS.7.CL.3.3 Describe the structure and function (three branches of government established in Articles I, II and III with corresponding powers) of government in the United States as
● Students will recognize the structure of the legislative, executive and judicial branches.
● Students will compare the roles and responsibilities of the three branches of the federal government.
● Students will identify the general powers described in Articles I, II and III of the United States Constitution.
SS.7.CL.3.4 Identify the relationship and division of powers between the federal government and state governments as outlined in Article IV of the United States Constitution.
● Students will define the system of federalism.
● Students will analyze how federalism limits government power.
● Students will compare concurrent powers, enumerated powers, reserved powers and delegated powers as they relate to state and federal government.
● Students will analyze the issues related to the 10th Amendment of the United States Constitution.
SS.7.CL.3.5 Explain the Constitutional amendment process as outlined in Article V of the United States Constitution.
● Students will recognize the methods used to propose and ratify amendments to the United States Constitution.
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● Students will identify the correct sequence of each amendment process.

● Students will identify the importance of a formal amendment process.
● Students will recognize the significance of the difficulty of amending the United States Constitution.
SS.7.CL.3.6 Analyze how the 13th, 14th, 15th, 19th, 24th and 26th amendments impact participation in the political process.
● Students will recognize the rights outlined in these amendments.
● Students will evaluate the impact these amendments have had on social movements.
● Students will analyze historical scenarios to examine how these amendments have affected participation in the political process.
● Students will recognize how the amendments were developed to address previous civil rights violations.
SS.7.CL.3.7 Analyze the structure, functions and processes of the legislative, executive and judicial branches.
● Students will examine the processes of the legislative (e.g., how a bill becomes a law, appointment confirmation, committee selection), executive (e.g., executive order, veto,
appointments) and judicial (e.g., judicial review, court order, writ of certiorari, summary judgment) branches of government.
T
● Students will compare local, state and federal lawmakers (e.g., city/county commissioners/council members; state legislators [representatives and senators]; and United States
Congressmen/Congresswomen [representatives and senators]).
● Students will compare and contrast the lawmaking process at the local, state and federal levels.
AF
SS.7.CL.3.8 Identify sources and types of law.
● Students will explain how historical codes law (e.g., English Law, Code of Justinian (Roman Law), the Ten Commandments influenced the United States.
● Students will recognize constitutional, statutory, case and common law as sources of law.
● Students will compare civil, criminal, constitutional and/or military types of law.
SS.7.CL.3.9 Explain the levels, functions and powers of courts at the state and federal levels.
● Students will distinguish between the levels, functions and powers of courts at the state and federal levels.
● Students will recognize that the powers and jurisdiction of the state and federal courts are derived from their respective constitutions.
R
● Students will compare appellate and trial processes.
SS.7.CL.3.10 Analyze the effects of landmark Supreme Court cases on law, liberty and the interpretation of the United States Constitution.
● Students will recognize landmark Supreme Court cases (e.g., Marbury v. Madison; Dred Scott v. Sandford; Plessy v. Ferguson; Brown v. Board of Education; Gideon v.
D
Wainwright; Miranda v. Arizona; In re Gault; United States v. Nixon; Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier).
● Students will use primary sources to assess the significance of each United States Supreme Court case.
● Students will evaluate the impact of each case on society.
● Students will recognize and/or apply constitutional principles and/or rights in relation to the relevant United States Supreme Court decisions.
SS.7.CL.3.11 Compare the constitutions of the United States and Florida.
● Students will identify the purposes of a constitution (e.g., provides a framework for government, limits government authority, protects the rights of the people).
● Students will recognize the basic outline of the United States and Florida Constitutions (both have articles, amendments and preambles).
● Students will compare the amendment process of the United States and Florida Constitutions.
● Students will recognize the United States Constitution as the supreme law of the land.
SS.7.CL.3.12 Differentiate between local, state and federal governments’ obligations and services.
● Students will evaluate scenarios in order to determine which level of government provides specific services.
● Students will classify government services according to level of government in order to evaluate the role that each plays in their lives.
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● Students will compare the obligations/powers of governments at each level.

● Students will compare the reserved, concurrent and expressed/enumerated powers of government.
SS.7.CL.3.13 Explain the advantages of capitalism and a free market system over government-controlled economic systems (e.g., socialism and communism) in generating economic
prosperity for all citizens.
● Students will recognize various economic systems (e.g., capitalism, communism, socialism).
● Students will identify the relationship between various economic systems and the ideal of freedom.
● Students will analyze scenarios describing various forms of economic systems.
SS.7.CL.3.14 Explain the why the Electoral College is essential to the United States’ constitutional republic.
● Students will explain the origin of the Electoral College.
● Students will explain the purpose and function of the Electoral College in electing a president.
● Students will describe the process for electing the president according to Article II of the United States Constitution.
T
● Students will evaluate the role of electors in the voting process.
Standard 4 SS.7.CL.4: Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary issues in world affairs, and evaluate the role and impact of United States foreign policy.
SS.7.CL.4.1 Explain the relationship between United States foreign and domestic policy.
AF
● Students will recognize the difference between domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will identify issues that relate to United States domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will define ‘national interest' and identify the means available to the federal government to pursue the United States’ national interest.
SS.7.CL.4.2 Describe government and citizen participation in international organizations.
● Students will identify major international organizations in which government plays a role (e.g., North Atlantic Treaty Organization, United Nations, International Court of Justice,
World Trade Organization).
● Students will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of United States membership in international organizations.
R
SS.7.CL.4.3 Describe examples of how the United States has acted and reacted in international conflicts.
● Students will identify specific examples of international conflicts in which the United States has been involved.
● Students will identify the reasons for the United States becoming involved in past international conflicts.
D
● Students will analyze primary source documents pertaining to international incidents to determine the course of action taken by the United States.
● Students will identify the different methods used by the United States to deal with international conflict (e.g., war, humanitarian efforts, peacekeeping operations, conflict
resolution).
Grade 8
SS.8.CL.1.1 Compare the views of Patriots, Loyalists and other colonists on self-government and the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
● Students will explain varied models of self-government from the era of the American Revolution.
● Students will evaluate the Patriot and Loyalist arguments on monarchy and independence.
SS.8.CL.1.2 Explain changes to the Florida Constitution between 1838 and 1868.
● Students will compare and contrast the 1838 Florida Constitution and 1868 Florida Constitution.
SS.8.CL.1.3 Explain why the rule of law is an essential principle in the United States constitutional republic.
● Students will discuss the impact of the rule of law on United States citizens and government.
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● Students will recognize characteristics of a society that operates under the rule of law.
● Students will identify the importance of the rule of law in protecting citizens from arbitrary and abusive uses of government power.
● Students will evaluate the impact of the rule of law on governmental officials and institutions (e.g., accountability to the law, fair procedures, decisions based on the law, consistent
application and enforcement of the law, and transparency of institutions).
Standard 2 SS.8.CL.2: Evaluate the roles, rights and responsibilities of United States citizens, and determine methods of active participation in society, government and the
political system.
SS.8.CL.2.1 Identify the constitutional provisions for establishing citizenship.
● Students will explain how the 14th Amendment establishes citizenship.
SS.8.CL.2.2 Compare the responsibilities of citizens at the local, state and federal levels.
● Students will recognize responsibilities of citizens (e.g., obeying the law, paying taxes, serving on a jury when summoned, registering with the Selective Service).
SS.8.CL.2.3 Analyze the role of civic virtue in the lives of citizens and leaders from the Colonial period through Reconstruction.
T
● Students will understand how the idea of civic virtue changes in response to the attitudes of citizens and leaders over time.
SS.8.CL.2.4 Trace the evolving forms of civic and political participation from the Colonial period through Reconstruction.
● Students will differentiate between the meanings of political and civic participation.
AF
● Students will describe significant acts of civic and political participation from the Colonial period through Reconstruction.
SS.8.CL.2.5 Analyze how the Bill of Rights guarantees civil rights and liberties to citizens.
● Students will explain the meaning and purpose of each amendment in the Bill of Rights.
● Students will describe how the Bill of Rights affects citizens and government.
SS.8.CL.2.6 Evaluate how amendments to the United States Constitution expanded opportunities for civic participation through Reconstruction.
● Students will identify constitutional amendments that address voting rights.
● Students will describe how specific constitutional amendments expanded access to the political process for various groups over time.
R
Standard 3: SS.8.CL.3: Demonstrate an understanding of the principles, functions and organization of government.
SS.8.CL.3.1 Trace the foundational ideals and principles related to the United States government expressed in primary sources from the colonial period to Reconstruction.
● Primary sources may include, but are not limited to the Mayflower Compact, Common Sense, the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, the Gettysburg
Address and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address.D Grades 9-12
SS.912.CL.1.1 Analyze how diverse intellectual influences contributed to ideas in the Declaration of Independence, United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
● Students will recognize intellectual influences to include, but not limited to religion (Hebraic and Christian), republicanism (ancient and classical), the Enlightenment (e.g.,
questioning of traditional authority), English law (e.g., Magna Carta; English Toleration Act (1689)), and colonial era ideas on government (e.g., The Laws of Virginia (1610-
1611), the Mayflower Compact (1620); the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut (1639); The Massachusetts Body of Liberties (1641); Common Sense (1776).
SS.912.CL.1.2 Analyze the influence of religion (Hebraic and Christian) on America’s founding ideas about law and government.
 Students will explain the religious influence in documents to include, but not limited to the Fundamental Orders of Connecticut (1639); The Massachusetts Body of Liberties
(1641); Common Sense (1776), Declaration of Independence (1776), United States Constitution (1789).
SS.912.CL.1.3 Explain the influence of Enlightenment ideas on the Declaration of Independence.
 Students will identify grievances listed in the Declaration of Independence in terms of due process of law, individual rights, natural rights, popular sovereignty and social contract.
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 Students will explain national sovereignty, natural law, self-evident truth, equality of all persons, due process of law, limited government, popular sovereignty and unalienable
rights of life, liberty and property as they relate to Enlightenment ideas in the Declaration of Independence.
 Students will recognize that national sovereignty, due process of law, natural law, self-evident truth, equality of all persons, limited government, popular sovereignty and
unalienable rights of life, liberty and property form the philosophical foundation of our government.
SS.912.CL.1.4 Explain arguments presented in the Federalist Papers in support of ratifying the United States Constitution and a republican form of government.
● Students will recognize that the Federalist Papers argued for a federal system of government, separation of powers and a representative form of government that is accountable to
its citizens.
● Students will analyze Federalist and Anti-Federalist arguments concerning ratification of the United States Constitution and inclusion of a bill of rights.
SS.912.CL.1.5 Analyze how the ideals and principles expressed in the founding documents shape America as a constitutional republic.
● Students will differentiate among the documents and determine how each one was individually significant to the founding of the United States.
● Students will evaluate how the documents are connected to one another.
T
● Founding documents include, but are not limited to, the Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, the Northwest Ordinance, Federalist Papers (e.g., No. 10. No. 14,
No. 31, No. 39, No. 51) and the United States Constitution.
● Students will identify key individuals who contributed to the founding documents (e.g., Thomas Jefferson, Alexander Hamilton, John Jay, James Madison and George Mason).
AF
SS.912.CL.1.6 Explain how the United States Constitution and its amendments uphold the following political principles: checks and balances, consent of the governed, democracy, due
process of law, federalism, individual rights, limited government, representative government, republicanism, rule of law and separation of powers.
● Students will explain how the structure and function of the United States government reflects these political principles.
● Students will differentiate between republicanism and democracy, and discuss how the United States reflects both.
Standard 2 SS.912.CL.2: Evaluate the roles, rights and responsibilities of United States citizens and determine methods of active participation in society, government and the
political system.
R
SS.912.CL.2.1 Explain the constitutional provisions that establish and affect citizenship.
● Students will explain how the concept of citizenship in the United States has changed over the course of history (i.e., 13th, 14th, 15th and 19th Amendments).
● Students will compare birthright citizenship, permanent residency and naturalization in the United States.
● Students will differentiate the rights held by native-born citizens, permanent residents and naturalized citizens (e.g., running for public office).
D
SS.912.CL.2.2 Explain the importance of political and civic participation to the success of the United States constitutional republic.
● Students will discuss various ways in which United States citizens can exercise political and civic participation.
● Students will identify historical examples of political and civic participation (e.g., Civil Rights Movement, Women’s Suffrage Movement)
● Students will describe the ways in which individuals can be denied and limited in their right to practice political and civic participation (e.g., losing voting rights for felony
conviction, limitations on political contributions, limits on the type of protesting).
SS.912.CL.2.3 Explain the responsibilities of citizens at the local, state and federal levels.
● Students will identify various responsibilities held by citizens (e.g., voting, volunteering and being informed, respecting laws).
● Students will understand the process of registering or preregistering to vote and how to complete a ballot.
● Students will discuss appropriate methods of communication with public officials (e.g., corresponding, attending public meetings, requesting a meeting and providing information).
● Students will participate in classroom activities that simulate exercising the responsibilities of citizenship.
SS.912.CL.2.4 Evaluate, take, and defend objective, evidence-based positions about rights protected by the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights.
 Students will apply their knowledge of the amendments to the United States Constitution to analyze scenarios related to civic participation.
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 Students will describe the importance of the Bill of Rights and the role it played in extending the natural rights of liberty and property for citizens.
SS.912.CL.2.5 Evaluate, take and defend objective, evidence-based positions on issues that cause the government to balance the interests of individuals with the public good.
● Students will examine situations when individuals’ rights have been restricted for the public good (e.g., limits on speech or rationing of goods during wartime, enactment of the
Patriot Act).
● Students will analyze how environmental and financial policies place limitations on citizens and private industry for the public good.
● Students will explain different services provided by local, state, and federal governments to citizens to ensure their rights are protected (e.g., social services, law enforcement,
defense, emergency response).
SS.912.CL.2.6 Analyze contemporary and historical examples of government-imposed restrictions on rights.
● Students will identify historical examples of government-imposed restrictions on rights (e.g., suspension of habeas corpus, rationing during wartime, and limitations on speech).
● Students will explain the rationale for government-imposed restrictions on rights (e.g., inciting a crime, campaign contributions, defamation and military secrets).
SS.912.CL.2.7 Explain how the principles contained in foundational documents contributed to the expansion of civil rights and liberties over time.
T
● Students will explain how different groups of people (e.g., African Americans, immigrants, Native Americans women) had their civil rights expanded through legislation action
(e.g., Voting Rights Act, Civil Rights Act) executive action (e.g., Truman’s desegregation of the army and Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation), and the courts (e.g., Brown v.
Board of Education, In re Gault).
AF
● Students will explain the role founding documents, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, had on setting precedent for the future granting of rights.
SS.912.CL.2.8 Analyze the impact of civic engagement as a means of preserving or reforming institutions.
 Students will identify legal methods that citizens can use to promote social and political change (e.g., voting, peaceful protests, petitioning, demonstrations, and contacting
government offices).
 Students will identify historical examples of citizens achieving or preventing political and social change (e.g., the Abolitionist Movement).
SS.912.CL.2.9 Explain the impact of political parties, interest groups, media and individuals on determining and shaping public policy.
R
● Students will identify the origins of the Republican and Democratic political parties and evaluate their roles in shaping public policy.
● Students will identify historical examples of, interest groups, media and individuals influencing public policy.
● Students will compare and contrast how the free press influenced politics at major points in United States history (e.g., Vietnam War Era, Civics Rights Era).
SS.912.CL.2.10 Explain the process and procedures of elections at the state and federal levels.
D
● Students will identify the different primary formats and how political parties nominate candidates using primaries.
● Students will compare and contrast the different ways in which elections are decided (e.g., Electoral College, proportional, popular vote, winner-take-all).
● Students will explain the process by which candidates register to be part of state and federal elections.
● Students will describe the different methods used to tabulate election results in state and federal elections (i.e., electronic voting, punch cards, fill-in ballots).
● Students will evaluate the role of debates in elections.
SS.912.CL.2.11 Analyze factors that contribute to voter turnout in local, state and national elections.
● Students will explain trends in voter turnout.
● Students will be able to discuss attempts to increase voter turnout (e.g., get out the vote campaigns, social movements).
● Students will explain how governmental action has impacted voter participation (e.g., 15th, 19th and 26th Amendments; Jim Crow; poll tax and efforts to suppress voters).
SS.912.CL.2.12 Evaluate political communication for bias, factual accuracy, omission and emotional appeal.
● Students will compare multiple beliefs from reporting on the same political event or issue.
● Students will identify various forms of propaganda (e.g., plain folks, glittering generalities, testimonial, fear, logical fallacies).
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● Students will discuss the historical impact of political communication on American political process and public opinion.
● Examples of political communication may include, but are not limited to, political cartoons, propaganda, campaign advertisements, political speeches, bumper stickers, blogs, press
and social media.
SS.912.CL.2.13 Explain how interest groups, the media and public opinion influence local, state and federal decision making related to public issues.
● Students will objectively discuss current public issues in Florida and use both the United States and Florida Constitutions to justify pro and con positions.
● Students will examine the relationship and responsibilities of both the federal and state governments regarding these public issues.
● Students will analyze public policy solutions related to local, state and federal issues.
SS.912.CL.2.14 Analyze the influence and effects of various forms of media and the internet in political communication.
● Students will explain how the methods of political communication has changed over time (e.g., television, radio, press, social media).
● Students will describe how the methods used by political officials to communicate with the public has changed over time.
● Students will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of different methods of political communication.
T
Standard 3 SS.912.CL.3: Demonstrate an understanding of the principles, functions and organization of government.
SS.912.CL.3.1 Analyze how the principles of checks and balances, consent of the governed, democracy, due process of law, federalism, individual rights, limited government,
representative government, republicanism, rule of law and separation of powers contribute to the opportunities afforded to all Americans, the nation’s longevity and its ability to overcome
AF
challenges.
● Students will describe the characteristics of representative government in the United States.
● Students will identify the constitutional provisions that establish representative government.
SS.912.CL.3.2 Analyze how the governing principles of the United States contribute to the attainment of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness for all citizens.
● Students recognize checks and balances, consent of the governed, democracy, due process of law, federalism, individual rights, limited government, representative government,
republicanism, rule of law and separation of powers of the United States.
R
SS.912.CL.3.3 Explain how the United States Constitution safeguards and limits individual rights.
● Students will identify the individual rights citizens are granted in the language of the United States Constitution, the Bill of Rights and other constitutional amendments.
D
● Students will describe the role of the Supreme Court in further defining the safeguards and limits of constitutional rights.
● Students will describe how Supreme Court decisions may limit both states’ rights and powers, and individual freedoms.
SS.912.CL.3.4 Analyze how the United States Constitution safeguards against authoritarianism.
● Students will explain how the three branches of government were instituted as means of distributing (e.g., making the laws, judging the laws, executing the laws), limiting (e.g.,
checks and balances, veto power, judicial review) and sharing power (e.g., executive as the Commander-in-Chief but Congress as the body which declares war) in the United States
Constitution.
● Students will analyze how individual rights are protected and limited by the language of the United States Constitution and its amendments.
● Students will describe how expressed, implied, concurrent and reserved powers distribute, limit and share power and responsibility in the United States Constitution.
SS.912.CL.3.5 Analyze the structures, functions and processes of the legislative branch as described in Article I of the United States Constitution.
● Students will explain why Article I of the United States Constitution established a bicameral legislative body and how the House of Representatives functions differently from the
Senate.
● Students will identify the methods for determining the number of members in the House of Representatives and the Senate.
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● Students will identify and describe the “enumerated powers” granted to Congress (e.g., assess taxes, borrow money, declare war and make laws).
● Students will analyze the role of the legislative branch in terms of its relationship with the judicial and executive branch of the government.
● Students will describe constitutional amendments that changed the role of Congress from its original description in Article I of the United States Constitution (i.e., 10th, 14th, 16th,
17th and 27th Amendments).
SS.912.CL.3.6 Analyze the structures, functions and processes of the executive branch as described in Article II of the United States Constitution.
● Students will explain the qualifications one must have to seek the office of president and the process of presidential elections.
● Students will explain different presidential responsibilities outlined in Article II (e.g., receiving foreign heads of state, delivering the State of the Union address and carrying out
faithful execution of the law).
● Students will examine the role of the executive branch in terms of its relationship with the judicial and legislative branches of the government.
● Students will describe constitutional amendments (i.e., 12th, 20th, 22nd and 25th) that have changed the role of the executive branch from its original description in Article II.
● Students will describe the impeachment process.
T
SS.912.CL.3.7 Describe how independent regulatory agencies interact with the three branches of government and with citizens.
● Students will identify independent regulatory agencies (e.g., Federal Communications Commission, Federal Election Commission, National Labor Relations Board) and explain
their purpose and effect.
AF
● Students will describe the advantages and disadvantages of delegating power to independent regulatory agencies.
SS.912.CL.3.8 Explain expressed, implied, concurrent and reserved powers in the United States Constitution.
● Students will identify powers that are expressed in the United States Constitution to Congress (e.g., coin money, declare war, assess taxes and citizenship).
● Students will identify that expressed powers are also known as enumerated powers found in Article I of the United States Constitution.
● Students will analyze the role of the “general welfare clause” and “necessary and proper clause” in granting Congress implied powers.
● Students will describe examples of concurrent powers as those powers shared by both state and federal governments (e.g., build roads, tax citizens, make laws).
● Students will describe examples of concurrent powers as those powers shared by both state and federal governments (e.g., build roads, tax citizens, make laws).
R
● Students will explain how reserved powers define issues as matters for the people or the state governments.
● Students will compare the roles of expressed, implied, concurrent and reserved powers in United States federalism.
SS.912.CL.3.9 Analyze the structures, functions and processes of the judicial branch as described in Article III of the United States Constitution.
D
● Students will examine the role of the judicial branch in terms of its relationship with the legislative and executive branches of the government.
● Students will describe the role of the Supreme Court and lesser federal courts.
● Students will explain what Article III says about judicial tenure, appointment and salaries.
● Students will describe the powers granted to the courts by Article III including, but not limited to, treason, jurisdiction and trial by jury.
SS.912.CL.3.10 Describe the purpose and function of judicial review in the American constitutional government.
● Students will examine the role of district courts, the courts of appeals and the Supreme Court in the judicial review process.
● Students will explain the relationship between the concept of judicial review and the language of the Supremacy Clause in Article VI of the United States Constitution.
SS.912.CL.3.11 Compare the role of state and federal judges with other elected officials.
● Students will compare the ways state and federal judges are appointed compared to other elected officials.
● Students will distinguish the qualifications needed for a judge at the state or federal level versus other elected officials.
● Students will compare the decision making process of judges compared to other political figures.
SS.912.CL.3.12 Analyze the levels and responsibilities of federal and state courts.
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● Students will describe what Article III of the United States Constitution states about the relationship between state and federal courts.
● Students will recognize the role of the Federal Judiciary Act of 1789 in establishing the structure and jurisdiction of the federal court system.
● Students will contrast the differences among civil trials and criminal trials at the state level.
● Students will describe the relationship among the Supreme Court, federal appellate courts and federal district courts (e.g., Erie Doctrine, Rooker-Feldman Doctrine).
SS.912.CL.3.13 Evaluate how landmark Supreme Court cases effect law, liberty and the interpretation of the United States Constitution.
● Students will recognize landmark Supreme Court cases (e.g., Marbury v. Madison; McCulloch v. Maryland; Dred Scott v. Sandford; Plessy v. Ferguson; Brown v. Board of
Education; Gideon v. Wainwright; Miranda v. Arizona; Korematsu v. United States; Mapp v. Ohio; In re Gault; United States v. Nixon; Regents of the University of California v.
Bakke Hazelwood v. Kuhlmeier; District of Columbia v. Heller).
● Students will explain the foundational constitutional issues underlying landmark Supreme Court cases related to the Bill of Rights and other amendments.
● Students will explain the outcomes of landmark Supreme Court cases related to the Bill of Rights and other amendments.
SS.912.CL.3.14 Analyze the role of federalism in establishing the relationship between the federal and state governments.
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● Students will identify examples of the powers reserved and shared among state and the national governments in the American federal system of government.
● Students will examine the role the Great Compromise had on the eventual establishment of a federal system of fifty equal states.
● Students will explain specific rights that are granted to the states in the language of the United States Constitution and its amendments (e.g., 10th Amendment, defense and
AF
extradition).
● Students will analyze how states have challenged the federal government regarding states’ rights (e.g., Civil War, the New Deal, No Child Left Behind, Affordable Health Care Act
and Civil Rights Movement).
SS.912.CL.3.15 Explain how issues between Florida, other states and the federal government are resolved.
● Students will explain the concept of federalism as it applies to each issue.
● Students will use historical and issue-based scenarios to demonstrate understanding of how disputes between Florida, other states and the federal government are resolved (e.g.,
water rights arguments between Florida and Georgia, federal and state conflict over rights to adjacent waters and seabeds, civil rights).
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SS.912.CL.3.16 Explain the judicial decision-making process in interpreting law at the state and federal levels.
● Students will explain the role of the United States Constitution in interpreting law at the state and federal levels.
● Students will explain the process used by judges at the state and federal levels when making a decision or writing summary opinions.
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● Students will incorporate language from the Constitution or court briefs to justify a legal decision when interpreting state or federal law.
SS.912.CL.3.17 Explain how citizens are affected by the local, state and federal governments.
● Students will identify local government officials and employees who affect the daily lives of citizens.
● Students will identify the role of state governmental officials and employees who affect the daily lives of citizens.
● Students will identify the role of federal governmental officials and employees who affect the daily lives of citizens.
● Students will explain how government at all levels impacts the daily lives of citizens.
Standard 4 SS.912.CL.4: Demonstrate an understanding of contemporary issues in world affairs and evaluate the role and impact of United States foreign policy.
SS.912.CL.4.1 Discuss how liberty and economic freedom generate broad-based opportunity and prosperity in the United States.
● Students will differentiate between government systems (e.g., autocracy, democracy, monarchy, oligarchy republic, theocracy).
● Students will differentiate between economic systems (e.g., capitalism, communism, mixed market, socialism).
● Students will analyze the disadvantages of authoritarian control over the economy (e.g., communism and socialism) in generating broad-based economic prosperity for their
population.
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SS.912.CL.4.2 Explain how the United States uses foreign policy to influence other nations.
● Students will explain how the policies of other nations influence United States policy and society.
● Students will identify agencies of the United States government that contribute to its foreign policy agenda (e.g., National Security Agency, Central Intelligence Agency).
● Students will explain the advantages and disadvantages of how nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) influence foreign policy (e.g., United States Agency for International
Development, Red Cross, American Woman Suffrage Association and Amnesty International).
● Students will explain how United States trade policy influences its relationships with other nations (e.g., China and Saudi Arabia).
● Students will explain how the use of embargos and economic sanctions by the United States has affected other nations (e.g., Cuba, Iran and Syria).
● Students will explain the United States response to international conflicts.
SS.912.C.4.3 Compare how United States foreign policy protects human rights around the world with other nations.
● Students will explain how United States foreign policy aims to protect liberty around the world and describe how the founding documents support the extension of liberty to all
mankind.
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SS.912.CL.4.4 Identify indicators of democratization in foreign countries.
 Students will recognize indicators of democratization as a system of free and fair elections, active civic participation, the protection of the human rights and the rule of law.
SS.912.CL.4.5 Analyze concepts related to United States domestic and foreign policy and their implications.
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● Students will recognize the difference between domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will identify issues that relate to United States domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will analyze the domestic implications of United States domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will identify the goals and objectives of United States domestic and foreign policy.
● Students will recognize the role of the United States Department of State in foreign affairs.
● Students will analyze the domestic implications of United States domestic and foreign policy.
R
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Proposed K-12 Civics and Government Standards

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Proposed K-12 Civics and Government Standards

justice for all” as the Pledge of Allegiance.

SS.K.CL.2.5 Recognize symbols that represent Florida.

SS.2.CL.1.2 Explain the consequences of an absence of rules and laws.

● Students will compare the powers of Florida’s three branches of government.

influenced the Founding Fathers.

established in the United States Constitution.

● Students will identify the correct sequence of each amendment process.

● Students will compare the obligations/powers of governments at each level.

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