U.S. v. Nixon (1974)
Lesson Plan
This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that then-sitting President Nixon had to turn over some recordings of his presidential…
Overview
This mini-lesson covers the basics of the Supreme Court’s decision that then-sitting President Nixon had to turn over some recordings of his presidential communications to a court of law. Students learn about the Watergate break-in, the president’s privilege of confidentiality, and the supremacy of the Constitution even over the President of the United States.
Grade Levels
- 6-8
- 9-12
Learning Objectives
- Describe basic events surrounding the Watergate break-in
- Explain the president’s privilege of confidentiality
- Identify the main arguments put forth in the case
- Describe the Supreme Court’s reasons for requiring Nixon to turn over his tapes
- Identify the tension between the president’s privilege and the needs of the criminal justice system
- Recognize that the president is not above the law
- Evaluate a president’s need for confidential communications