The U.S. Constitution

8th GradeSocial Studies40 min

Learning Objective

I can describe the key principles and compromises involved in creating the U.S. Constitution.

Lesson Flow

Watch Video

7 min

Compromise and the Constitution of the United States | Benjamin Franklin | PBS | A Film by Ken Burns

PBS

Guided Notes

8 min

Key concepts students will learn:

  • The Great Compromise resulted in each state having two senators and a House of Representatives based on population.

  • Southern states wanted to include enslaved people in their population counts, leading to the Three-Fifths Compromise.

  • Benjamin Franklin believed that compromise was essential for the new nation to move forward and for American democracy to develop.

Practice

12 min

7 questions • Multiple choice & Short answer

Exit Ticket

5 min

Describe the Great Compromise (Connecticut Compromise) and explain how it resolved the debate over representation in Congress.

Teacher Guide

Get the complete package:

  • Answer keys for all questions
  • Differentiation strategies
  • Extension activities
  • Printable student handouts