The U.S. Constitution and You

by Syl Sobel J.D.

Overview

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

ISBN-13:	9781464236907
Publisher:	Sourcebooks
Publication date:	05/06/2025
Edition description:	4th ed.
Pages:	48
Product dimensions:	7.25(w) x 9.50(h) x 0.37(d)
Age Range:	7 - 10 Years

About the Author

Syl Sobel is an author, attorney, journalist, filmmaker, and former federal government executive. He is the author of How the U.S. Government Works, The U.S. Constitution and You, The Bill of Rights, and Presidential Elections and Other Cool Facts, and is the coauthor of Boxed Out of the NBA: Remembering the Eastern Professional Basketball League. 

Table of Contents

Introduction 6

The Rules for the Government 11

Three Branches of Government 14

Checks and Balances 19

The People's Powers 22

Changing the Constitution 24

The Rights of the People 27

The Rights of the States 34

The Constitution and You 38

Glossary 41

Resource Guide 45

Index 47

Editorial Reviews

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.

School Library Journal