Federalism Debate

Federalism Articles

Directions:  Click on the link above and rad both articles on Federalism.   


Essential Question:  Is the system of federalism an effective way of governing the United States?  Should states continue to have power over certain issues, or should the Federal Government set the standard and laws for every state in the entire nation? 

Directions:  

1. Read both articles and answer each of the guiding questions in complete sentences.  
2. Respond to the essential question in 3-4 paragraphs.   
3. Be sure to establish the background and historical context behind federalism (why is it in the constitution, how does it work?).  
4. Be sure to state your position on federalism clearly.  If you believe it is an effective way of governing the U.S. , explain why the benefits outweigh the costs.  If you believe it is not an effective method, explain why you think the Federal Government should set the laws for the entire nation.   
5. Use at least two specific references from each article to support your response.   
6. Use at least two specific examples of of events related to federalism from your own knowledge of U.S. History to support your response (for example: the Hartford Convention, Civil War, or the New Deal).  

Guiding Questions:  

1. What is the historical reason behind why the system of the system of federalism was established in the U.S. Constitution?  
2. Which article  supports federalism and states' rights, and which does not?  Use at least one direct quote from each article to support your answer.  
3. Which issues today cause the most controversy over federalism  (arguments over what states can control and what the Federal Government can control)?   
4. What are the benefits of federalism?  
5. What are some of the negative results of federalism?