Within the first week of class, we will be creating a Classroom Bill of Rights. While developing this, any extra classroom rules will be established by the students. After the product is finalized, a copy will be sent with each student to bring home and have signed by their parents and themselves.
This "Bill of Rights" will be posted on the 7th Grade page, as well as within our classroom.
Task 1: Students will break up into "States" (groups) of 3-4. Each State will sit as a group and discuss key components of our classroom rules/syllabus.
Task 2: Each state will then come up with 2-4 "Amendments" they would like to propose for classroom rules and responsibilities. These should be typed up by one member of each State on the form below and submitted. Note: Mr. Diers, as the "President" may Veto any Amendment that either breaks school/district rules or impedes the overall classroom's learning environment. Note II: It is suggested that States look online at "Classroom Bill of Rights" assignments for ideas/suggestions.
Task 3: The States will conveine after a minimum of 2-4 Amendments have been written for proposition, and each State will present their proposed Amendment to the classroom. Note: It is almost guaranteed that some states may propose the same Amendment, and this is good, because it will provide more support for the proposition.
Task 4: After all Amendments are proposed to the assembled States, the Assembly will discuss the requirements around the Amendment (what it would take to impliment or how it may affect the classroom atmosphere).
Task 5: After the Assembly has discussed the Amendments, there will be a general "vote" on each Amendment, which will be completely anonymous. 3/4 of the assembled delegates must approve the Amendment for it to be passed.
Task 6: After the Amendments are voted on and either passed or rejected, the President (Mr. Diers) will approve or veto the Amendments passed by the States.
After we have completed this, we will discuss the importance of direct democracy and individual voice in the electoral system. Each class will have their Bill of Rights assembled and posted on the classroom wall, and signed by each class.