Houses Of Parliament Lesson Plan

Houses of Parliament Lesson Plan

### Grade Level * Middle School (Grades 6-8) ### Subject * Social Studies ### Time * 45 minutes ### Objectives * Students will be able to describe the structure and function of the Houses of Parliament. * Students will be able to identify the key players in the British political system. * Students will be able to analyze the role of the Houses of Parliament in British democracy. ### Materials * Whiteboard or projector * Markers or pens * Paper * Handouts on the Houses of Parliament * Video clips of parliamentary debates * Internet access ### Procedure 1.

Introduction

* Begin by asking students what they know about the Houses of Parliament. * Write their responses on the board or projector. * Define the Houses of Parliament as the supreme legislative body of the United Kingdom. * Explain that the Houses of Parliament are made up of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. 2.

Structure of the Houses of Parliament

* Show students a diagram of the Houses of Parliament. * Explain that the House of Commons is the lower house of Parliament and that it is made up of 650 elected members. * Explain that the House of Lords is the upper house of Parliament and that it is made up of over 800 appointed members. 3.

Function of the Houses of Parliament

* Explain that the main function of the Houses of Parliament is to pass laws. * Explain that laws are made through a process called a bill. * Show students a flowchart of the legislative process. 4.

Key Players in the British Political System

* Introduce students to the key players in the British political system, including the Prime Minister, the Leader of the Opposition, and the Speaker of the House. * Explain the roles and responsibilities of each of these individuals. 5.

Role of the Houses of Parliament in British Democracy

* Discuss the role of the Houses of Parliament in British democracy. * Explain that the Houses of Parliament are responsible for holding the government accountable. * Explain that the Houses of Parliament also play a role in scrutinizing legislation. 6.

Assessment

* Have students write a short essay on the Houses of Parliament. * In their essay, students should discuss the structure, function, and role of the Houses of Parliament in British democracy. ### Extension Activities * Have students research a specific bill that is currently being debated in Parliament. * Have students write a letter to their MP or Lord expressing their views on a particular issue. * Have students visit the Houses of Parliament and take a guided tour. ### Conclusion The Houses of Parliament are a vital part of the British political system. They play a key role in making laws, holding the government accountable, and scrutinizing legislation. Understanding the structure, function, and role of the Houses of Parliament is essential for understanding British democracy.