Functions and Modeling · Weeks 10-18

Constructing Linear Functions

Constructing a function to model a linear relationship between two quantities.

About This Topic

The Presidency of Washington examines the critical period when the new government was first put into practice. As the first president, George Washington had to establish the 'precedents' that would guide all future leaders, from forming a cabinet to serving only two terms. Students learn about the challenges he faced, including the Whiskey Rebellion and the pressure to take sides in European wars.

This topic is vital for understanding how the abstract ideas of the Constitution were turned into a functioning administration. It highlights Washington's role as a unifying figure who prioritized the stability of the young republic. Students grasp this concept faster through structured discussion and peer explanation, as they analyze his Farewell Address and debate the wisdom of his warnings for the future.

Active Learning Ideas

Role Play: The First Cabinet Meeting

Assign students roles as Washington, Hamilton (Treasury), and Jefferson (State). They must debate a real issue of the time, such as the Whiskey Rebellion, while Washington tries to find a middle ground between his feuding advisors.

⏱ 40 min·Small Groups

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Inquiry Circle: Washington's Precedents

Groups are given a list of presidential actions (e.g., being called 'Mr. President,' giving a Farewell Address, stepping down after two terms). They must explain why each action was a 'precedent' and how it shaped the office of the presidency.

⏱ 30 min·Small Groups

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Think-Pair-Share: The Farewell Address Warnings

Students read excerpts from Washington's Farewell Address regarding political parties and 'entangling alliances.' They discuss in pairs whether his warnings were wise and if they are still relevant to the U.S. today.

⏱ 25 min·Pairs

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

Common Misconception

Washington wanted to be a King.

What to Teach Instead

He was actually very careful to avoid king-like behavior, which is why he insisted on being called 'Mr. President' and stepped down voluntarily. Peer discussion on 'voluntary surrender of power' helps students see why this was so revolutionary.

Common Misconception

The Whiskey Rebellion was just a small fight about alcohol.

What to Teach Instead

It was a major test of whether the new federal government could actually enforce its laws. A role-play comparing the government's response to Shays' Rebellion versus the Whiskey Rebellion illustrates the new strength of the Constitution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a 'precedent' and why was it important for Washington?

A precedent is an action or decision that serves as an example for others to follow. Because Washington was the first president, everything he did set a standard for the future. His choices, like serving only two terms and creating a cabinet of advisors, defined the role of the presidency for generations.

What was the Whiskey Rebellion?

It was a protest by farmers in Pennsylvania against a new federal tax on whiskey. Unlike the weak government under the Articles, Washington used his power to lead a militia to stop the rebellion, proving that the new Constitution gave the federal government the authority to enforce its laws.

What warnings did Washington give in his Farewell Address?

Washington warned against two main things: the 'baneful effects' of political parties, which he feared would divide the nation, and 'permanent alliances' with foreign countries, which he believed would draw the U.S. into unnecessary wars. He urged the country to prioritize national unity and neutrality.

How can active learning help students understand Washington's presidency?

Active learning, such as role-playing cabinet debates or investigating precedents, helps students see the presidency as a 'work in progress.' When students have to advise 'Washington' on the Whiskey Rebellion, they weigh the risks of using force versus appearing weak. This approach makes the early challenges of the republic feel like high-stakes decisions rather than just inevitable history.

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