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​State Laws and the Three Branches of Government
for elementary students

 
This four-minute web-based interactive introduces elementary students to the responsibilities of the three branches of government. With some preparation, students may complete the interactive individually.
 
The interactive:
  • Discusses what laws are.
  • Introduces the three branches of government and their responsibilities of making, enforcing, and interpreting/applying laws.
  • Includes a brief quiz at the end.
 
The interactive uses the example of a state law that requires drivers to stop for a school crossing guard (MCL 257.613d). The text of this statute can be found by searching the web site of the Michigan Legislature (www.legislature.mi.gov/).
 
Click the image below to view the video.
 


​Vocabulary

 
Executive branch
Governor
Judge
Judicial branch
Laws
Legislative branch
Legislator
Three branches of government
 

Social Studies Grade Level Content Expectations

 
3 – C1.0.1
Give an example of how Michigan state government fulfills one of the purposes of government.
 
3 – C3.0.3
Identify the three branches of government and the powers of each.
 
3 – C3.0.4
Explain how the state courts function to resolve conflict.