Product Description

All elementary school students learn about the history of the U.S. Constitution when they first begin social studies. This book is different. It tells boys and girls about the great American document itself--explaining exactly what the Constitution does, as well as how it affects and protects people today. Kids discover how the Constitution provides for the federal government's three branches--legislative, executive, and judicial. Then they see how it gives all citizens many rights, including the right to vote, to enjoy freedom of speech and the press, to worship--or not worship--according to one's religious beliefs, to disagree openly with government policy, and to defend oneself in courts of law when accused of crimes or civil wrongs. Kids also see how, according to the Constitution, many rights are kept beyond control of the federal government, and are reserved for the separate states, communities, and individuals. This book's language is clear and simple. It cites many examples that relate directly to each student's own experiences. (For grades 3-5)

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #92280 in Books
• Published on: 2001-05-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 48 pages

Features

• ISBN13: 9780764117077
• Condition: USED - VERY GOOD
• Notes:

From School Library Journal
Gr 3-5-A straightforward overview of what the Constitution is and what it does. Short chapters on the various components and aspects of the document are direct and easy to understand as branches, checks and balances, and rights are defined and explored. Pen-and-ink sketches and informational sidebars emphasize points made throughout the book. While Betsy C. Maestro's A More Perfect Union: The Story of Our Constitution (Lothrop, 1987) focuses on the design and development of this document in a narrative style, Sobel's book focuses on its essential elements. It's a useful addition to the study of U.S. history and government.

Janie Schomberg, Leal Elementary School, Urbana, IL

Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.

About the Author
Syl Sobel is Director, Communications, Federal Judicial Center in Washington, D.C., as well as the author of How the U.S. Government Works, and Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts, also published by Barron's.

Customer Reviews

one of two
I purchased this book in addition to How The U.S. Government Works, by the same author. I was pleased that the books do not talk down to my middle-schoolers, but instead explain in easily-understood terms how it all is supposed to work. This is a good reference book for a 'tween-ager. I keep both books on my homeschool bookshelf and my children have gone back to them several times.

Great book!
This book is required for 4th grade history through K12 Virtual Academies. As the school still hasn't shipped ours, (it is now mid October!)I ordered from Amazon, and the book was delivered very quickly. It is a very well written book that gives accurate information about the constitution in a way that is fun and interesting for grade school children.

The US Constitution and You
This is a good book. Good illustrations that help with the text in understanding government. Good refresher from our long ago Social Studies classes.