Legislative Branch Activity: How a Bill Becomes a Law Simulation
Key Takeaway: Dive into the intricacies of the legislative branch through our immersive simulation. Uncover the nuances of lawmaking, parliamentary procedures, and the dynamics shaping this pivotal arm of government.
What insights can a legislative branch simulation offer into understanding how a bill becomes a law? Delve into this simulation to gain a hands-on understanding of the legislative branch, exploring the intricacies of lawmaking, committee meetings, parliamentary procedures, and the dynamics shaping this essential arm of government.
Bringing the Legislative Branch Into Your Classroom
Explore the legislative branch with this dynamic simulation, unraveling the complexities of lawmaking and parliamentary processes. Engage in a hands-on experience that demystifies the inner workings of this crucial governmental entity, providing a comprehensive understanding of its functions and impact.
Do you ever spend time trying to make Civics more enjoyable and engaging for middle schoolers or high schoolers? I know I do. Civics can easily be seen as a dry subject, but it doesn't have to be. One of the all time favorite activities in my 8th grade Civics classes is this Legislative Branch Simulation: How a bill becomes a law activity. I was introduced to this concept and activity years ago by a respected co-teacher. Throughout the years I have tweaked and added to this idea to make it suitable for classes across the nation.
Write Bills → Discuss in Committee → Debate on Floor → Signed by President → Implement at School
How The Legislative Simulation Works
What I love about this simulation is that it makes learning about the Legislative Branch very real, engaging, and even exciting. Students get to participate in writing bills for their school, community, or state while learning the various stages within the lawmaking process. In addition, all voices are heard and each student has a chance to contribute.
Every student gets to become a member of Congress, write their own bills, participate in committee discussions, debate on the house/senate floor, and eventually watch the President sign the bills that survive through the entire process. Not only will the students love this simulation, but they get a chance to change their school, and in the process, learn all the aspects of how a bill becomes a law.
StudenTS WRITE BILLS THAT RESULT IN Real LIFE Outcomes
This How A Bill Becomes A Law Simulation has become one of the highlights of my civics class. Students love the opportunity to influence their school, community, or state through the bills they write. Each year, a small number of my students’ bills have actually changed school policy because our wonderful school administrators have actively joined in on the participation, making sure the doable bills actually happen! Over the years our 8th grade bills have improved our school in a variety of ways: installation of water fountains with bottle fillers, new locker room changes, school course offerings, and more.
“This activity was amazing! Both my students and myself thoroughly enjoyed this simulation activity. I cannot wait until I am able to use it again. Thank you so much! ”
HOW YOU CAN INCORPORATE THE BILL MAKING PROCESS IN YOUR CLASSROOM
Learning about the legislative branch and lawmaking process is good, but actively being engaged in the process is great! I know you will enjoy this hands-on simulation as you incorporate it within your civics and government classes as it has proven to be a fantastic means of making the legislative branch come to life! You’re going to love it, and your students will too! You can learn more about the Legislative Branch Simulation in my store or add it to your cart now. Let me know how it goes! For more content information to add to your legislative branch simulation, you may also be interested in my Legislative Branch Notes and Worksheet Assessment. These notes and worksheets help explain the details of the United States legislative branch.
What other engaging activities and lessons have you incorporated into your civics classes? Comment below and while you're at it, join the Mister Harms email list for future posts and updates. You can also see this fantastic simulation as featured on the Teachers Pay Teachers blog!
