Rights in American Democracy

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

Watch the video below about a student who refuses to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance during school.

Then, reflect on the following questions and write down your answers.

• How would you handle this case?
• How does the concept of rights connect with this situation?
• Who has rights in this situation?
• Where do rights come from under American democracy?

People often cite their right to say what they want or their civil rights being violated.

• What exactly are these rights?
• Where do these rights come from?
• What are they based upon?

The rights of American citizens are written down in an essential document, the Bill of Rights.

The Bill of Rights was not the first attempt at writing down people's rights to set a standard of governance. It was, however, the most complete effort anyone had made to that point in history.

• Why is the Bill of Rights a unique document?

The founders of the American Republic debated limiting government power. After lengthy discussions, they decided protecting civil liberties in their young country was necessary.

Learn more about Civil Liberties and Civil Rights and their role in the U.S. government's early formation. As you read the article, look for answers to these questions.

• How would you define civil liberties?
• In what ways do civil liberties limit government power?
• What is the difference between civil liberties and civil rights?

Then, reflect on the following questions.

• What role do civil liberties play in society?
• What is the proper balance between civil liberties and government power?
• What would society be like in the absence of civil liberties?

Now that you know a bit about the concept of rights and liberties, take a closer look in the Got It? section at the document that defines liberties under the American form of government.