Ronald Reagan’s Presidency


US History (11th) Contemporary America Ronald Reagan’s Presidency
Students watch a video that introduces Ronald Reagan as the “Great Communicator.” Then they explore his record in domestic policy, focusing on Reaganomics, and his foreign policies. Next, they evaluate the Reagan presidency. Finally, students turn to Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the Reagan appointee as the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court.

This learning experience is designed for device-enabled classrooms. The teacher guides the lesson, and students use embedded resources, social media skills, and critical thinking skills to actively participate. To get access to a free version of the complete lesson, sign up for an exploros account.

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Here are the teacher pack items for Ronald Reagan’s Presidency:

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Overview

In this experience, students watch a video that introduces Ronald Reagan as the “Great Communicator.” Then they explore his record in domestic policy, focusing on Reaganomics, and his foreign policies. Next, they evaluate the Reagan presidency. Finally, students turn to Justice Sandra Day O’Connor, the Reagan appointee as the first woman on the U.S. Supreme Court.

Objectives

  • Evaluate Reaganomics and its long-term effects.
  • Analyze Reagan’s foreign policy approach of “peace through strength.”


The 1980s in U.S. government and politics were dominated by the leadership of Ronald Reagan, who was president from 1981 to 1989. In this experience, you’ll learn about his personality, ideals, and foreign and domestic policies.

Objectives

  • Evaluate Reaganomics and its long-term effects.
  • Analyze Reagan’s foreign policy approach of “peace through strength.”


portrait of a man with a U.S. flag in the background

President Ronald Reagan, 1985


In 1981, Ronald Reagan was elected President of the United States. Known as “The Great Communicator,” Reagan had the ability to engage the American audience. Watch 60 Second Presidents-Ronald Reagan to learn more.

Reagan’s unique ability to highlight and emphasize mainstream values and capture them in a political speech is seen in this clip entitled Watch Highlights from Reagan’s Speech that Defined Modern Conservatism 50 Years Ago. Read the introductory paragraphs and then watch the clip.


After watching clips from one of Reagan’s most famous speeches, do you think he deserved the nickname “The Great Communicator”? Give an example from the video of something that you found engaging.

Post your answer

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Identify one or two questions you have about Reagan’s presidency.



Many of the questions will likely be answered during the experience. Students may do additional reading to answer the remaining questions.


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The Complete List of Learning Experiences in 1970s – End of the Cold War Unit.
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