Differences and Similarities between Colonial Constitutions and Post-Independent Constitutions Third Term Basic 8 JSS 2 Civic Education

Lesson Plan Presentation

Subject: Civic Education Topic: Differences and Similarities between Colonial Constitutions and Post-Independent Constitutions

Grade Level: JSS 2

Duration: 1 hour

Subject : Civic Education

Class :JSS 2

Term : Third Term

Week : Week 5

Topic :

List 5 differences between Colonial constitutions and Post Independent constitutions

2. State 5 similarly among the Post Independent constitutions

Behavioural Objectives :

Learning Objectives:

1. Understand the differences between colonial constitutions and post-independent constitutions.
2. Identify the similarities among post-independent constitutions.
3. Recognize the importance of democratic principles in post-independent constitutions.
4. Analyze the impact of colonial rule on constitutional development.

Embedded Core Skills:

1. Critical thinking and analysis
2. Reading comprehension
3. Communication and presentation skills
4. Social awareness and empathy

Learning Materials:

1. Whiteboard or blackboard
2. Markers or chalk
3. Chart paper or flipchart
4. Printed handouts of the lesson content
5. Textbooks or reference materials on colonial and post-independent constitutions

Content

Topic: Differences and Similarities between Colonial Constitutions and Post-Independent Constitutions

Differences between Colonial Constitutions and Post-Independent Constitutions:

1. Source of Authority:
   • Colonial Constitutions: The source of authority in colonial constitutions was the colonial power, such as the British Empire. The colonial power had the ultimate say in making and amending the constitution.
   • Post-Independent Constitutions: The source of authority in post-independent constitutions is the people of the respective country. The constitution is created and amended based on the will and consent of the citizens.
2. Representation:
   • Colonial Constitutions: In colonial constitutions, the level of representation for the local population was often limited. Power and decision-making were concentrated in the hands of the colonial rulers or appointed officials.
   • Post-Independent Constitutions: Post-independent constitutions aim to provide fair and equal representation to the citizens. They establish democratic systems where citizens can elect their representatives to make decisions on their behalf
3. Rights and Freedoms:
   • Colonial Constitutions: Colonial constitutions often limited the rights and freedoms of the local population. They were designed to serve the interests of the colonial power, which could result in restrictions on freedom of speech, assembly, and political participation.
   • Post-Independent Constitutions: Post-independent constitutions emphasize the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for all citizens. They guarantee rights such as freedom of speech, religion, assembly, and the right to vote, promoting equality and inclusivity.
4. Control over Resources:
   • Colonial Constitutions: Colonial constitutions allowed the colonial power to have significant control over the country’s resources, including land, minerals, and trade. The benefits often went to the colonial power rather than the local population.
   • Post-Independent Constitutions: Post-independent constitutions seek to ensure that the country’s resources are controlled and managed in the best interests of the nation and its people. They provide mechanisms for equitable distribution and utilization of resources for the welfare of citizens
5. Decentralization:
   • Colonial Constitutions: Colonial constitutions tended to centralize power, with decision-making concentrated at the colonial headquarters. Local regions and communities had limited autonomy and were subject to the directives of the colonial administration.
   • Post-Independent Constitutions: Post-independent constitutions often emphasize decentralization, allowing for the devolution of power and decision-making to local and regional levels. This promotes local governance and enables communities to have a greater say in their own affairs

[mediator_tech]

Similarities among Post-Independent Constitutions:

1. Protection of Human Rights: Post-independent constitutions across different countries emphasize the protection of human rights, such as the right to life, liberty, and equality before the law.
2. Separation of Powers: Post-independent constitutions typically establish a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches of government. This ensures a system of checks and balances and prevents the concentration of power.
3. Rule of Law: Post-independent constitutions uphold the principle of the rule of law, where all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under the law. This promotes fairness, justice, and equality in society.
4. Citizenship and Nationality: Post-independent constitutions define the criteria for citizenship and nationality, outlining the rights and responsibilities of citizens. They provide a framework for the inclusion and participation of all citizens in the country’s affairs.
5. Amendment Procedures: Post-independent constitutions typically include provisions for amending the constitution. They outline the procedures and requirements for making changes to the constitution, ensuring that it can adapt to evolving needs and aspirations.

Note: This is a simplified explanation of the topic suitable for JSS 2 students

Evaluation

1. The source of authority in colonial constitutions was __________ (a) the colonial power, (b) the people, (c) local chiefs.
2. In post-independent constitutions, the source of authority is __________ (a) the colonial power, (b) the people, (c) local chiefs.
3. Colonial constitutions often limited the rights and freedoms of the local population, whereas post-independent constitutions emphasize the protection of __________ (a) fundamental rights and freedoms, (b) colonial powers, (c) trade agreements.
4. Power and decision-making were concentrated in the hands of __________ in colonial constitutions. (a) colonial rulers or appointed officials, (b) local chiefs, (c) the people.
5. Post-independent constitutions establish __________ where citizens can elect their representatives. (a) a monarchy, (b) a democratic system, (c) a military rule.
6. Colonial constitutions allowed the colonial power to have significant control over __________. (a) land and resources, (b) the military, (c) local trade.
7. Post-independent constitutions aim to ensure that the country’s resources are controlled and managed in the best interests of __________. (a) the colonial power, (b) the local population, (c) the military.
8. Decentralization, promoting local governance, is emphasized in __________. (a) colonial constitutions, (b) post-independent constitutions, (c) both colonial and post-independent constitutions.
9. Colonial constitutions tended to centralize power, whereas post-independent constitutions promote __________. (a) checks and balances, (b) dictatorship, (c) foreign rule.
10. Protection of human rights is emphasized in __________. (a) colonial constitutions, (b) post-independent constitutions, (c) neither colonial nor post-independent constitutions.

Note: In the answers, the correct option is indicated in brackets.

[mediator_tech]

Presentation:

1. Introduction (5 minutes):
   • Greet the students and provide an overview of the lesson.
   • Explain the importance of understanding constitutions in the context of colonial and post-independent periods.
   • Share the learning objectives for the lesson.
2. Differences between Colonial Constitutions and Post-Independent Constitutions (15 minutes):
   • Present a brief background on colonial rule and its impact on constitution-making.
   • Using the whiteboard or blackboard, list the five differences between colonial and post-independent constitutions (as discussed earlier).
   • Engage the students in a discussion by asking questions related to each difference.
   • Provide examples and explanations to help students grasp the concepts.
3. Similarly among Post-Independent Constitutions (10 minutes):
   • Transition to the similarities among post-independent constitutions.
   • Use the whiteboard or blackboard to list the five similarities (as discussed earlier).
   • Explain each similarity and provide real-world examples to make it relatable to the students.
   • Encourage students to share their thoughts and opinions on the similarities
4. Teacher’s Activities:
   • Facilitate discussions and encourage active participation from students.
   • Use visual aids and real-life examples to enhance understanding.
   • Monitor student engagement and comprehension throughout the lesson.
5. Learners’ Activities:
   • Listen attentively to the teacher’s explanations and examples.
   • Participate actively in class discussions by asking and answering questions.
   • Take notes on the differences and similarities discussed.
   • Engage in group activities or discussions to reinforce understanding

[mediator_tech]

Assessment:

1. Informal Assessment:
   • Monitor students’ participation and engagement during class discussions.
   • Observe their ability to articulate the differences and similarities between colonial and post-independent constitutions.
2. Evaluation Questions:
   1. What was the source of authority in colonial constitutions? (a) The colonial power, (b) The people, (c) Local chiefs.
   2. Which constitutions emphasized the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms? (a) Colonial constitutions, (b) Post-independent constitutions, (c) Both colonial and post-independent constitutions.
   3. In post-independent constitutions, who has the ultimate say in making and amending the constitution? (a) The colonial power, (b) The people, (c) Local chiefs.
   4. What were the similarities among post-independent constitutions? (List three)
   5. Which constitutions limited the rights and freedoms of the local population? (a) Colonial constitutions, (b) Post-independent constitutions, (c) Neither colonial nor post-independent constitutions.
   6. What is the aim of post-independent constitutions regarding resources? (a) To benefit the colonial power, (b) To benefit the local population, (c) To benefit the military
   7. Name one difference between colonial and post-independent constitutions regarding representation.
   8. What is the significance of decentralization in post-independent constitutions?
   9. Which constitutions tended to centralize power? (a) Colonial constitutions, (b) Post-independent constitutions, (c) Both colonial and post-independent constitutions.
   10. Why is the protection of human rights emphasized in post-independent constitutions?

Conclusion (5 minutes):

• Summarize the main points discussed during the lesson.
• Reinforce the importance of understanding the differences and similarities between colonial and post-independent constitutions.
• Connect the lesson to real-world examples of constitutional development in Nigeria or other relevant countries.
• Encourage students to explore further on the topic and ask questions if they have any.

Homework:

• Assign students to research and write a short paragraph about the impact of colonial rule on the development of post-independent constitutions.

[mediator_tech]

Note to the Teacher: Ensure that the lesson is interactive and engaging for the students. Encourage participation, ask open-ended questions, and provide opportunities for students to express their thoughts and opinions. Monitor their understanding throughout the lesson and provide additional explanations or examples if necessary