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Home > Resource Library > What States Do (HS)
Lesson Plan
State and Local Governments

What States Do (HS)

9-12
One class period
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Learning Objectives

The students will be able to: 

  • Explain the general structure and organization of state governments
  • Identify the major responsibilities and functions of state government
  • Describe how all levels of government are involved in shaping public policy and responding to public policy issues
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Overview

State governments play many roles. This lesson goes beyond basic state government structure to examine how states use their police powers and taxation systems to further state goals, act as innovation incubators to test creative solutions for problems, and team up with the federal government to address major issues. Students work with real-world examples to explore state governments' roles.

This resource was created with support from the State Government Affairs Council. 

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