Federalism Mini Project

AP Government Fall 2017 Mr.Massetti

“Be nice and share” Unknown parent or teacher

We can look at federalism as a sharing of power between the federal, state and local governments. If this is true, to what degree do they share? How have important issues throughout American history been issues of federalism as well? We will look at some contemporary issues and attempt to decide which government, ours in New York, another state, or perhaps the federal government is best equipped to solve them.

1. Meet your partner(s) 2. Issues will be assigned 3. Create a topic slide (1 slide) 4. Research the historical nature of the issue, creating a short background presentation (3 slides) 5. Identify problems associated with the issue (2 slides) 6. How is the issue being addressed in New York today? (1 slide), and how is ONE other state dealing with the issue (one slide) 7. One partner will advocate for the New York policy, while the other partner will advocate for laws the other state(s). Each student will list 2 reasons why their state law is better. (1 slide for each side, promoting each position) 8. As a group, decide which state government is doing a better job dealing with the issue. Provide two reasons why (1 slide) 9. Should the federal government legislate a national solution for your issue? If one is already in place, you can support it or argue against it. If there not a federal law currently enacted, explain in two sentences why or why not there should be one (1 slide) 10. Attach a works cited, using proper format, (Must be E-Z Bib) as your final slide Issues

Gun control/carry/purchase Assisted suicide (right to die by patient decision) Immigration reform Fracking Election Day vs early and extended voting Legalization of marijuana for or recreational use Driving license age The implementation of a national language for schools and/or commerce Casino gambling /lottery Sports gambling/daily fantasy Intelligent design vs evolution in school curriculum UFC licensing Women’s reproductive rights Religious freedom Transgender law Minimum wage Voter registration State taxation ( income and sales)

Important Dates

ACC for research and project implementation: Thurs 10-5 thru Wed 10-11

Presentations: Thurs 10-12 thru Wed 10-18

Remember: When you advocate for federal power, you are choosing universal laws that cover the entire 50 states. When you advocate for state power, you are arguing for more state and local decision making that allow for state/regional differences.