How I Use Stations to Teach Constitutional Compromises

Teaching the Constitutional Convention and the compromises that shaped our nation can be challenging, but it doesn’t have to be! This Constitutional Compromises Stations Activity is designed to help middle school U.S. History, Civics, and Government teachers bring these essential concepts to life. By using interactive stations, students actively engage with the key debates, figures, and decisions of 1787.

This activity covers the Articles of Confederation, the Great Compromise, the Three-Fifths Compromise, and the process of selecting the president, including the creation of the Electoral College. It also includes creative tasks, critical thinking questions, and even a riddle to keep students invested and excited about learning.

Learning Objectives:

Understand the weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation.
Analyze the key debates between large and small states.
Explain the Great Compromise and the structure of Congress.
Understand the impact of the Three-Fifths Compromise.
Evaluate different methods of electing the president and the Electoral College.

How It Works:

Students rotate through several stations, each focused on a different issue debated at the Constitutional Convention. At each station, students complete various tasks such as comparing plans, analyzing compromises, and reflecting on the historical context.

Stations Include:

Reasons for a New Constitution (Articles of Confederation weaknesses)
Large States vs. Small States (Virginia Plan vs. New Jersey Plan)
Representation and the Great Compromise
The Three-Fifths Compromise
How to Elect the President (Electoral College)

Get your stations HERE!

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