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Social Studies Lessons 1-5

Last updated about 4 years ago
10 questions
Lesson 1: National Holidays
Read the paragraphs and answer the questions
Dr. King grew up in a time when some states had laws that kept black people and white people separate. Dr. King thought laws like that were unfair. He wanted all Americans to have equal rights. He spent his whole life fighting to change unfair laws. He did not fight with his fists; he fought with his words and actions.
1

Why do we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day?

The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City more than 100 years ago. Workers there wanted to celebrate and remind people of their roles in building cities and working in factories. Later, Labor Day became a holiday for the whole country.
1

Why do we celebrate Labor Day?

Lesson 2: Structure of Government
Read the paragraphs and answer the questions
In the United States there are three levels of government: national, state, and local. Each level of government has its own responsibilities.

All the levels of government have three branches. That’s one way they are the same. The three branches are the legislative branch, the executive branch, and the judicial branch. The legislative branch makes the laws. The executive branch makes sure the laws are followed. The judicial branch settles legal conflicts. The judicial branch is made up of courts. The courts apply, explain, and interpret the laws that the legislative branch makes.

A state government is responsible for things that happen only in that state. Each state has a department of transportation that is responsible for building and maintaining state roads. Each state issues marriage certificates, birth certificates, and driver's licences. Each state licences teachers, lawyers, and doctors. These licences give them permission to teach, practice law, and practice medicine in that state.
1

What are the three levels of government?

1

What is the job of the legislative branch of the government?

1

Which is a job of the state government?

Lesson 3: Functions of Government
Read the paragraphs and answer the questions
Many local governments are run by a city or town council and a mayor. The council is in charge of making the laws for the community. A city or town council is made up of a group of people who are elected by the community members. The mayor is in charge of enforcing the laws and voting them into effect. Mayors are also elected by the people of their city or town. The mayor usually sits at the head of the city or town council. The mayor votes on the issues with the rest of the council.
1

How do communities choose council members in most places?

Lesson 4: Citizenship: Rights and Responsibilities
Answer the questions
1

Which is a right people have in the United States?

1

Which is a responsibility community members have?

Lesson 3: Functions of Government
Answer the questions
1

Which is one way to participate in community government?

1

What is one way you could volunteer in your community?