Plasma Membrane and Selective Permeability
Focuses on the fluid mosaic model of the plasma membrane and its role in regulating the passage of substances into and out of the cell.
Key Questions
- Explain how the structure of the plasma membrane contributes to its selective permeability.
- Analyze the importance of the surface area to volume ratio in limiting cell size.
- Predict the outcome for a cell placed in hypertonic, hypotonic, and isotonic solutions.
Common Core State Standards
About This Topic
The Marshall Court, led by Chief Justice John Marshall, was instrumental in defining the power of the federal judiciary and the supremacy of the national government. This topic covers landmark cases such as Marbury v. Madison, McCulloch v. Maryland, and Gibbons v. Ogden. Students examine how these decisions established judicial review and expanded the federal government's authority over interstate commerce and the national economy.
For 11th graders, this topic is essential for understanding the 'third branch' of government and how the Supreme Court became a co-equal power. It also highlights the ongoing tension between federal authority and states' rights. Students grasp these legal concepts faster through mock trials and collaborative case-law investigations that connect historical rulings to modern legal precedents.
Active Learning Ideas
Mock Trial: Marbury v. Madison
Students take on the roles of William Marbury, James Madison, and the Supreme Court Justices. They argue the case for and against the delivery of the judicial commissions, culminating in a 'Justice' explaining the concept of judicial review.
Inquiry Circle: The 'Big Three' Cases
Small groups are assigned one of Marshall's major cases. They must identify the central conflict, the Court's ruling, and the long-term impact on federal power, then teach their findings to the rest of the class.
Think-Pair-Share: Federal vs. State Power
Students are given a list of modern scenarios where federal and state laws conflict. They must use the logic from McCulloch v. Maryland to predict how the Marshall Court would have ruled, then share their reasoning with a partner.
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Common MisconceptionThe Supreme Court always had the power of judicial review.
What to Teach Instead
The power of judicial review was not explicitly stated in the Constitution; it was established by the Court itself in Marbury v. Madison. A hands-on 'Constitution Search' helps students realize that this major power was an interpretive development.
Common MisconceptionJohn Marshall's rulings were popular with everyone at the time.
What to Teach Instead
Many people, including Thomas Jefferson, were deeply concerned that the Marshall Court was overstepping its bounds and stripping power from the states. Peer-led analysis of Jefferson's letters helps students see the intense political pushback against the Court.
Suggested Methodologies
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Frequently Asked Questions
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