Texas TEKS 3.8.B

Social Studies3rd GradeGovernment

The Standard

describe the concept of "consent of the governed."

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for Social Studies

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students explain that government receives its authority from the people. They connect that idea to voting, choosing representatives, and following rules made through an agreed process.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can explain why leaders need the people's approval to govern. The student can use an election or class vote as an example and knows that approval does not mean everyone agrees.
Common Misconceptions: Students may think leaders gain authority simply by taking charge or being powerful. They may also think every person must agree with every law or decision.
How to Assess It: Exit ticket: Explain how voting gives people a voice in government, and tell why a leader cannot simply rule without public approval.

Lesson moves

Hold a mock class election with paper ballots, a ballot box, vote counters, and two choices for a class privilege.
Write a response to this prompt: Why should people have a say in choosing their leaders?
Sort scenario cards into “people gave approval” and “people had no choice,” then explain each placement.
Examine a sample local election ballot and identify how voters use it to choose leaders or decide public questions.

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