Lesson Plan
Branching Out Lesson Plan
Students will independently research, analyze, and visually represent the three branches of the U.S. government, then reflect on their roles as citizens through a self-guided project.
This lesson develops critical thinking, civic awareness, and self-directed learning by having students explore government powers, create a visual exhibit, and articulate personal civic responsibilities.
Audience
11th Grade
Time
90 minutes
Approach
Self-guided research and project creation
Materials
- Computer/Tablet with Internet, - Chart Paper and Markers, - Branching Out Research Worksheet, - Branching Out Graphic Organizer, - Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric, and - Branching Out Reflection Prompt
Prep
Prepare Materials
15 minutes
- Review Branching Out Research Worksheet, Branching Out Graphic Organizer, Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric, and Branching Out Reflection Prompt.
- Print or duplicate all handouts and ensure digital access.
- Arrange individual workstations with devices, chart paper, and markers.
- Verify internet connectivity and that all devices are functioning properly.
Step 1
Introduction
10 minutes
- Remind students of the three branches (Legislative, Executive, Judicial) and session goals.
- Distribute the Branching Out Research Worksheet.
- Explain expectations: independent research, visual exhibit creation, and written reflection.
- Address any initial questions and clarify success criteria.
Step 2
Research Phase
30 minutes
- Students use online resources to research each branch’s powers, responsibilities, and examples.
- Complete corresponding sections on the Branching Out Research Worksheet.
- Teacher circulates to provide individualized guidance, answer questions, and ensure on-task work.
Step 3
Organizing and Designing
20 minutes
- Transfer key findings into the Branching Out Graphic Organizer.
- Plan the layout, visuals, and main points for the visual exhibit (poster, infographic, or digital slide).
- Select images, charts, and concise descriptions to illustrate each branch.
- Teacher offers targeted feedback on organization and design choices.
Step 4
Reflection Writing
15 minutes
- Distribute the Branching Out Reflection Prompt.
- Students respond to prompts about their learning process and civic roles.
- Encourage thoughtful, detailed reflections on how the branches affect citizens.
- Teacher reviews reflections, provides brief written feedback, and notes growth areas.
Step 5
Gallery Walk and Feedback
10 minutes
- Students display their visual exhibits around the room.
- Conduct a silent gallery walk; peers leave one positive comment and one question on sticky notes.
- Use the Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric to guide constructive feedback.
- Teacher observes interactions and gathers insights on common strengths or misconceptions.
Step 6
Formative Assessment and Closure
5 minutes
- Lead a brief whole-class discussion: key takeaways and lingering questions.
- Summarize how understanding the branches connects to active citizenship.
- Collect completed rubrics, worksheets, and reflection prompts for assessment and next-step planning.
Slide Deck
Branching Out: Exploring the Three Branches of Government
• Tier 3, Individual Project
• Audience: 11th Grade
• Duration: 90 minutes
Materials Needed:
- Computer/Tablet with Internet
- Chart Paper & Markers
- Branching Out Research Worksheet
- Branching Out Graphic Organizer
- Branching Out Reflection Prompt
- Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric
Welcome everyone! Introduce the session: In today’s 90-minute individual project, you’ll research, analyze, and create a visual exhibit on the three branches of the U.S. government. Emphasize self-guided work and civic reflection. Mention timing and materials.
Objectives
By the end of this session, you will:
- Independently research the powers and responsibilities of each branch.
- Organize findings into a coherent graphic organizer.
- Design a clear, engaging visual exhibit (poster/infographic/slides).
- Reflect on your role as a citizen in relation to each branch.
Review today’s objectives and tie them back to civic engagement. Highlight self-directed learning skills: critical thinking, organization, reflection.
Overview of the Three Branches
Legislative Branch
• Makes laws (Congress: Senate & House)
• Powers: tax, declare war, regulate commerce
Executive Branch
• Enforces laws (President & Cabinet)
• Powers: veto, commander-in-chief, treaties
Judicial Branch
• Interprets laws (Supreme Court & lower courts)
• Powers: judicial review, constitutional interpretation
Briefly recap each branch. Encourage students to note key powers and examples as they research.
Phase 1: Research (30 minutes)
- Open the Branching Out Research Worksheet.
- Research each branch’s key powers, responsibilities, and real-world examples.
- Record findings in the worksheet sections.
- Ask teacher for guidance as needed.
Explain how to use the Research Worksheet. Circulate, support individual questions, and remind students of time.
Phase 2: Organizing & Designing (20 minutes)
- Use the Branching Out Graphic Organizer to structure your ideas.
- Plan your exhibit format (poster, infographic, digital slide).
- Choose visuals (images, charts) and concise text.
- Teacher will circulate to provide feedback on design.
Guide students to transfer notes to the graphic organizer. Offer feedback on layout, clarity, and visual choices.
Phase 3: Reflection Writing (15 minutes)
- Open the Branching Out Reflection Prompt.
- Respond thoughtfully:
• What did you learn about each branch?
• How do these branches affect your role as a citizen? - Write in detail—use examples from your research.
Clarify reflection expectations: depth, connection to citizenship, personal insights.
Phase 4: Gallery Walk & Feedback (10 minutes)
- Display exhibits around the room.
- Conduct a silent gallery walk.
- Leave on each:
• One positive comment
• One thoughtful question - Use the Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric to guide comments.
Outline the silent gallery walk procedure. Emphasize constructive feedback using the rubric.
Closure & Formative Assessment (5 minutes)
• Discuss: What are your key takeaways? Any lingering questions?
• Summarize how understanding the branches supports active citizenship.
• Collect worksheets, graphic organizers, reflections, and rubrics for review.
Lead a short wrap-up discussion. Collect all materials for assessment and next steps.
Worksheet
Branching Out Research Worksheet
Use your device and reliable online resources to research each branch of the U.S. government. Record your findings clearly below.
Legislative Branch
1. Main Powers: Making laws
2. Primary Responsibilities:
3. Examples of Its Function (Provide at least two):
- Example 1: Approving President Obama's nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court
- Example 2: Congress passing the "Big Beautiful Bill," that impacts federal taxes
4. Source(s):
(Include URLs or publication titles)
Executive Branch
1. Main Powers:
2. Primary Responsibilities:
3. Examples of Its Function (Provide at least two):
- Example 1:
- Example 2:
4. Source(s):
(Include URLs or publication titles)
Judicial Branch
1. Main Powers:
2. Primary Responsibilities:
3. Examples of Its Function (Provide at least two):
- Example 1:
- Example 2:
4. Source(s):
(Include URLs or publication titles)
Activity
Branching Out Graphic Organizer
Use this chart to organize your research findings. Fill in each cell with key details.
| Category | Legislative Branch | Executive Branch | Judicial Branch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Powers | |||
| Primary Responsibilities | |||
| Example 1 | |||
| Example 2 |
Rubric
Branching Out Visual Exhibit Rubric
Use this rubric to assess the quality of the visual exhibits created in the Branching Out project. Score each criterion using a 4-point scale.
| Criteria | 4 – Exemplary | 3 – Proficient | 2 – Developing | 1 – Beginning |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Content Accuracy & Depth | All three branches are described with rich detail, precise terminology, and complete explanations of powers and responsibilities; no factual errors. | Each branch is accurately described with sufficient detail; minor omissions or simplifications do not impede understanding. | Descriptions cover basic functions but include some inaccuracies or lack depth; important details are missing or unclear. | Major inaccuracies or misunderstandings; descriptions are incomplete or incorrect for one or more branches. |
| Organization & Clarity | Information is arranged in a logical, easy-to-follow structure with clear headings, labels, and flow; the viewer can navigate the exhibit intuitively. | Presentation is generally well organized with appropriate headings and labels; minor lapses in flow or grouping do not significantly confuse the viewer. | Organization is uneven: related ideas may be separated, headings are missing or unclear, and the overall layout hinders comprehension. | Lacks coherent structure; sections are out of order or missing headings, making the exhibit confusing and difficult to follow. |
| Visual Design & Creativity | Highly engaging and original design; sophisticated use of color, imagery, icons, and layout to highlight key ideas and draw attention. | Visually appealing and clean layout; effective use of color and imagery with some creative elements that support the content. | Basic visuals and limited styling; some use of color or images, but design choices are minimal and do not enhance comprehension. | Little to no visual appeal; absence of color, images, or thoughtful layout; design detracts from understanding or appears unfinished. |
| Use of Evidence & Examples | Provides multiple, well-integrated, and relevant examples for each branch; all sources are clearly cited and support the content effectively. | Includes at least two appropriate examples per branch; most sources are cited; examples generally support the descriptions. | Examples are sparse or only loosely connected to the content; citations are incomplete or missing; evidence does not consistently reinforce understanding. | Few or no examples provided; citations are absent; the exhibit relies on unsupported statements or generalizations. |
| Adherence to Project Guidelines | Fully meets all requirements (format, size, components, and submission instructions); presentation is polished and delivered on time. | Meets almost all requirements with only minor omissions; presentation is neat and submitted by the deadline. | Several guidelines are unmet (e.g., missing components, incorrect format, or late submission); presentation is somewhat unpolished. | Does not follow key guidelines (e.g., format, required sections, or submission); presentation is incomplete, late, or fails to meet project expectations. |
Journal
Branching Out Reflection Prompt
Use these questions to guide your written reflection. Provide detailed, thoughtful responses and refer to specific examples from your research and visual exhibit.
- What are the three branches of government, and what key insights did you gain about each one during your research?
- How do the powers and responsibilities of each branch influence your role and responsibilities as a citizen?
- Describe a real-world issue or current event where you can see the interaction (or tension) between two or more branches. How does this example deepen your understanding of checks and balances?
- What questions remain about how our government works, and what steps could you take to explore these questions further (e.g., research, civic engagement, discussions)?