Smithsonian's History Explorer Resources Related To "Preparing for the Oath: Government Basics"

Preparing for the Oath: Writing the Constitution

Fri, 20 Jul 2012 10:40:09 GMT

Explore Constitutional history through short videos, mini-activities, and practice questions in this segment of Preparing for the Oath: U.S. History and Civics for Citizenship. The six questions included in this segment cover topics such as the Constitutional Convention, the Bill of Rights, and amendments to the Constitution.

This site was designed with the needs of recent immigrants in mind. It is written at a “low-intermediate” ESL level.

Vote: The Machinery of Democracy Homepage

Thu, 14 Jun 2012 16:09:00 GMT

In this online exhibition, students will explore the history of voting methods in the United States, study how ballots and voting systems have evolved over the years as a response to political, social, and technological change, transforming the ways in which Americans vote. The exhibit includes sections on paper ballots, reform, the gear & lever voting machine, Florida 2000, and present and future ballots.

The American Presidency: A Glorious Burden Homepage

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:43:08 GMT

This online exhibition examines the history of the American presidency. Through the use of objects from the museum's extensive collection, an interactive timeline and interactive activities, students will study the realities of the presidency, from its origins to the present, as well as the lives of the men who have held the office.