Author: Linda Weber, Annenberg Classroom

“The Making of a Law” recounts a true story of survival by describing the chronology of events that occurred over a 4-year period related to a real bill (S.136) that became law. The bill’s long and death-defying journey begins because three schools in Yosemite National Park needed additional funding to stay open. Congressman George Radanovich and Senator Dianne Feinstein are interviewed as bill sponsors along with other key individuals who supported the bill. Through this lesson, students will learn about the dynamic interconnections of people, principles, and process that are involved in making federal laws.

Objectives

•  Identify and explain the sequential steps in the federal process for making laws.
• Recognize democratic values and principles in the legislative process.
• Identify impediments to effective lawmaking.
• Determine the importance of negotiation and compromise in the legislative process.
• Draw conclusions about the importance of citizen participation in the legislative process
• Understand the interconnections of people, principles and process needed for effective lawmaking.