The Constitution of Florida


Civics State and Local Governments The Constitution of Florida
Students compare and contrast the Florida Constitution to the U.S. Constitution. Then, they take a closer look at one of the rights listed in the Declaration of Rights, summarize it in their own words, and explain why it should or should not be guaranteed in the Florida Constitution.

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Here are the teacher pack items for The Constitution of Florida:

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Overview

In this experience, students compare and contrast the Florida Constitution to the U.S. Constitution. Then, they take a closer look at one of the rights listed in the Declaration of Rights, summarize it in their own words, and explain why it should or should not be guaranteed in the Florida Constitution.

Objective

  • Compare the Florida Constitution to the U.S. Constitution.


gavel and Florida seal

You have learned about the United States Constitution when you studied the foundations of American government. But did you know that Florida has a constitution, too?

The current Florida Constitution was approved in 1968. It is the fifth state constitution that Florida has had. It shares many of the same principles as the U.S. Constitution, but it also has some differences. You will learn about the state constitution in this experience.

Objective

  • Compare the Florida Constitution to the U.S. Constitution.

The U.S. Constitution and the Florida Constitution are written with a similar structure. They both start with a preamble, which introduces the Constitution and explains its purpose. They both have articles, or sections, that outline the functions of each part of the government. And they both have amendments, or changes, to the original document.

Read the preambles of the U.S. Constitution and the Florida Constitution.


Preamble to the U.S. Constitution

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.


Preamble to the Florida Constitution

We, the people of the State of Florida, being grateful to Almighty God for our constitutional liberty, in order to secure its benefits, perfect our government, insure domestic tranquility, maintain public order, and guarantee equal civil and political rights to all, do ordain and establish this constitution.


List one or more phrases that are used in both the U.S. Constitution and the Florida Constitution. Separate the phrases with a comma, like this: write a book, paint a picture.

Post your answer

  • We the people
  • in order to
  • insure domestic tranquility
  • do ordain and establish this constitution


What do you think is meant by the phrase “insure domestic tranquility”?

Post your answer

Answers will vary, it basically means keeping law and peace within the nation or the state; keeping everyone happy to avoid chaos and rebellion.


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