How are Florida’s state and local governments structured?

SS.4.C.3.2

Distinguish between state (governor, state representatives, or senator) and local government (mayor, city commissioner).

SS.4.C.3.2

Distinguish between state (governor, state representatives, or senator) and local government (mayor, city commissioner).

Correlated Florida Standards (See Full Text on Cover Page)

  • LAFS.4.SL.1.2

Essential Question

How are Florida’s state and local governments structured?

Learning Goals/Objectives

  • Students will understand the different positions and functions of state and local governments.
  • Students will complete a Venn diagram to demonstrate comprehension.

Overview

Students will receive direct instruction on state and local governments through a teacher-led PowerPoint presentation and will complete a Venn diagram comparing and contrasting the two levels of government.

Materials

  • Internet access to project a map of Florida
  • State and Local Government Venn Diagram
  • State and Local Government PowerPoint (begins on page 5)

Time

  • 15-20 minutes

Activity Sequence

INTRODUCTION/HOOK

  1. Project a map of Florida, and post the following question for discussion: What do you think are the similarities and differences between Florida’s state and local governments?
  2. Point to the state capital of Florida (Tallahassee) and point to the relative location of the city where the school is located.

ACTIVITY

  1. Pass out the State and Local Government Venn Diagram and project the State and Local Government PowerPoint presentation (begins on page 5).
  2. Explain to students they will complete the diagram to identify the similarities and differences between state and local governments in Florida.
  3. Share the presentation with the students and complete the Venn diagram as a whole class. Teacher Note: Be sure that the Venn diagram includes the titles of government officials at each level of government.

CLOSURE

  1. Provide students with the following writing prompt to complete as an exit slip: Using the information you gathered on your Venn diagram, explain one similarity and one difference between Florida’s state and local governments.

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State and Local Government Venn Diagram

Directions: For each level of government list the differences under each heading and list similarities between the levels of government in the center.

State and Local Government Venn Diagram – Answer Key

Directions: For each level of government list the differences under each heading and list similarities between the levels of government in the center.

State Government / Both / Local Government
Governor –makes sure all laws are put into place
House of Representatives (state representatives) & Senate (senators) – pass laws
Florida Supreme Court – make decisions about state laws / Executive Branch
Legislative Branch – make laws
Judicial Branch, courts / County and city governments
Mayor
City Council or Council Commissioner - make laws called ordinances
Municipal courts

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