Performance Task: “Creating a Founding Documents Museum”

Objective: Students will demonstrate their understanding of the foundations of the US government by creating a museum exhibit that showcases the Constitution, other founding documents, and significant court cases. They will also explore the complex and varied national identity of the United States through the perspectives of different individuals.

Instructions: 1. Research and Select Founding Documents: Students will work in groups to research and select three significant founding documents (e.g., Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, Federalist Papers) that contributed to the creation of the US government. They should analyze the content, historical context, and impact of each document.

1. Analyze Court Cases: Each group will also research and analyze two landmark Supreme Court cases (e.g., Marbury v. Madison, Brown v. Board of Education, Roe v. Wade) that have shaped the interpretation of the Constitution and expanded individual rights. They should examine the facts, arguments, and outcomes of each case.

2. Design Museum Exhibit: Using their research, groups will design a museum exhibit that effectively communicates the significance of the selected founding documents and court cases. The exhibit should include visually appealing displays, informative text, and interactive elements to engage visitors.

3. Reflecting Perspectives: In addition to the exhibit, each group will create a separate section that explores the complex and varied national identity of the United States. They will choose three individuals from different backgrounds (e.g., Native American, immigrant, African American) and research their perspectives on the US government and national identity. Students should consider how these perspectives have been shaped by historical events and personal experiences.

4. Present and Evaluate: Groups will present their museum exhibits to the class, explaining the significance of the founding documents, court cases, and the perspectives of the chosen individuals. Peers will evaluate the exhibits based on their clarity, creativity, and ability to effectively convey the information.

5. Reflective Essay: Individually, students will write a reflective essay discussing how their understanding of the foundations of the US government and national identity has evolved throughout the project. They should also reflect on the importance of the Constitution, other founding documents, and court cases in shaping the nation’s identity and protecting individual rights.

Assessment: - Group exhibit and presentation: Clarity, creativity, accuracy, and ability to engage the audience (rubric provided). - Individual reflective essay: Depth of understanding, critical thinking, and ability to articulate personal growth and connections to the content.

Note: The performance task allows students to engage in meaningful work by conducting research, analyzing primary sources, designing exhibits, and exploring diverse perspectives. It also aligns with the learning targets by focusing on the Constitution, founding documents, court cases, national identity, and individual rights.