Florida SS.3.CG.1.2

Social Studies3rd GradeFoundations of Government, Law and the American Political System

The Standard

Describe how the U.S. government gains its power from the people.

Florida Next Generation Sunshine State Standards for Social Studies

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students explain that citizens give elected leaders authority through voting. They connect this idea to the Constitution and the words “We the People.”
What Mastery Looks Like: Students can use an election example to show how citizens choose representatives. They can explain that leaders must follow the Constitution and laws created with public consent.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think government leaders receive authority from wealth, family, or personal strength. They may also think citizens vote directly on every law and government decision.
How to Assess It: Give this exit prompt: “How do citizens give government leaders authority? Use voting or the Constitution in your answer.”

Lesson moves

Hold a class election with paper ballots, then ask who gave the winner authority to make the agreed class decision.
Ask students to write two sentences explaining what “We the People” says about who is in charge of government.
Sort scenario cards into “power from citizens” and “power not from citizens,” then defend each choice with a partner.
Show a recent local election result and have students trace how voters gave the winning official authority to serve.

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