Here is the completed scavenger hunt worksheet based on historical facts about the U.S. Constitution:
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Name: [Student’s Name]
The Constitution of the United States
Directions: The U.S. Constitution was approved by the Constitutional Congress and sent to the states for ratification in September 1787. What do you know about the Constitution? Explore the Web site provided. Then write the missing word or words in the blanks below.
Web Resources: The Constitution of the United States
http://bensguide.gpo.gov/6-8/documents/constitution/background.html
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1.
George Washington was the president of the Constitutional Convention.
> *Explanation:* George Washington, a highly respected military leader and national figure, was unanimously elected to preside over the Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia in 1787. His leadership helped maintain order and credibility during the debates.
2. Delegates from
twelve states attended the Convention.
> *Explanation:* Of the 13 original states, 12 sent delegates. Rhode Island did not participate because it opposed a stronger central government and feared losing its autonomy.
3. The
U.S. Constitution was written to replace the Articles of Confederation.
> *Explanation:* The Articles of Confederation (ratified in 1781) created a very weak central government with no power to tax or regulate commerce. The Constitution was drafted to create a more effective federal system while preserving state powers.
4. Under the
Articles of Confederation, each state remained independent.
> *Explanation:* The Articles established a “firm league of friendship” among the states, but the national government had no authority over them — each state retained its sovereignty, freedom, and independence.
5. The
Constitution united the states as one nation.
> *Explanation:* The Constitution created a federal system where power is shared between the national government and the states, forming a unified nation rather than a loose confederation.
6. The
Bill of Rights passed four years after the Constitutional Convention, ensures individual rights.
> *Explanation:* The first ten amendments to the Constitution — collectively known as the Bill of Rights — were proposed in 1789 and ratified in 1791. They guarantee fundamental rights like freedom of speech, religion, and due process, addressing concerns that the original Constitution lacked protections for individuals.
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Bonus Question:
*If you want to know more about the Constitution, read the Bill of Rights at http://usinfo.state.gov/use/infouse/facts/funddocs/billeng.htm. Then write about whether you think the Bill of Rights is a necessary part of the U.S. Constitution.*
> *Sample Answer:* Yes, the Bill of Rights is necessary because it protects the basic freedoms and rights of every American citizen against potential government overreach. Without these guarantees, there would be no constitutional check on how much power the federal government could exercise over individuals. It helps ensure justice, fairness, and liberty for all.
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© 2005 by Education World®. Education World grants users permission to reproduce this worksheet for educational purposes only.
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