The Meaning of the Federalist Papers
Overview
This lesson explores the Federalist Papers. In Part I, students engage in a discussion about how they get information about current issues. Next, they read a short background of the Federalist Papers and work individually or in pairs to closely examine the text. In Part II, student pairs analyze excerpts from the Federalist Papers and relate these documents to what they have already learned. In Part III, students work in small groups to research a Federalist or Anti-Federalist and role-play this person in a classroom debate.
Related Resources
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The Federalist Papers
web-friendly presentation -
Today in History: James Madison
background, primary & secondary sources -
Primary Source Spotlight: Alexander Hamilton
background, primary & secondary sources -
Did the Founders Want Government to Work?
high school lesson plan
Grade
High School
Subjects
Civics, English Language Arts
Length
90-120 minutes
Topics
alexander hamilton, anti-federalist, close reading, democracy, federalist, federalist papers, Hamilton 68, james madison, Madison 14, republic, U.S. Constitution
Author
Citizen U CRF