Inquiries Filed Under:

Government and Citizens

About the inquiry

This inquiry is an exploration into government that begins by looking at the historical roots of democracy in the United States and then focuses on state government. The inquiry features a case study of a piece of legislation, initiated by a class of New York State elementary school students that resulted in yogurt becoming the official state snack of New York. In examining the idea that we have a voice in our government, especially through state representation, students develop an argument supported by evidence that answers the compelling question “Why does New York have a state snack?”

Compelling Question

Why Does New York Have a State Snack?

Staging Question

Brainstorm reasons why New York would have an official state snack.

Supporting Question

Where does our government get its power?

Formative Tasks

Write a paragraph that addresses the supporting question.

Sources

Source A: Excerpt from The U.S. Constitution and You Source B: Preamble to the United States Constitution

Supporting Question

Why do we need government?

Formative Tasks

Discuss the supporting question with a partner.

Sources

Source A: “What Do Governments Do?” chart Source B: Excerpt from New York City’s 2002 Smoke Free Air Act

Supporting Question

How is our government organized?

Formative Tasks

Complete a graphic organizer comparing the organization of the federal and New York State governments.

Sources

Source A: “3 Branches of Government” Source B: Excerpts from “Branches of Government in New York State”

Supporting Question

How can citizens influence government?

Formative Tasks

Write an editorial for your school’s newspaper making an argument for or against the following idea: Citizens can and should influence government.

Sources

Source A: “Step Inside the Voting Booth” graphic Source B: Yogurt for New York State Snack video Source C: “Governor Cuomo Designates Yogurt as Official New York State Snack”

Summative Performance Task

Argument: Why does New York have a state snack? Construct an argument that addresses the compelling question using specific claims and evidence.

Extension: Debate the value of having a symbol or logo that represents the local community.

Taking Informed Action

Understand: Brainstorm issues or problems affecting the local neighborhood or community.

Assess: Identify ideas to solve one of these problems or issues.

Act: Identify a government official who could address this issue or problem and write a letter explaining the problem and ideas for solving it.

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