This post is sponsored by National Civics Bee
When you were in middle school, did you take a course in civics? I never had a dedicated civics class but learned about how our democracy should work through my government and history classes. Teaching civics to middle schoolers provides lessons about how our government works and fosters a future generation of citizens who will participate in our democratic processes.
If you’re not feeling confident in your knowledge of civics to teach it, or have a conversation about it at home with your kids, here’s why teaching civics to middle schoolers matters and how the free National Civics Bee can serve as a helpful tool.
What is Civics?
At its core, civics education aims to teach about our democracy and our Constitution. Learning how our government operates, the three branches of government, and our rights are important concepts when teaching civics to middle schoolers. Civic practices such as voting, volunteering, jury service, and collaborating with others to improve society are also included in these lessons.
Why Civics Education is Important
Lessons in civics teach kids to be informed and empowered citizens, especially as they look to create change in the world around them. Students also learn critical thinking and news literacy skills as they gather information to make informed decisions on issues affecting our country.
Teaching Civics to Middle Schoolers with the National Civics Bee
The National Civics Bee can be a useful tool when teaching civics to middle schoolers. Part of an initiative aimed at encouraging more young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities, The National Civics Bee allows 6-8th grade students to flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes.
Organized in partnership with The Civic Trust of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation, the National Civics Bee is a community-based competition designed to inspire middle schoolers to:
- Be better informed about American democracy
- Engage respectfully and constructively in the community
- Build greater trust in others and institutions
The third annual National Civics Bee will take place in 2024 in partnership with local and state Chambers of Commerce across the United States. For more information about teaching civics to middle schoolers through the 2023-2024 National Civics Bee, visit their website to learn how to get your local chamber to support it.
All opinions are my own.
