How the Presidency Has Changed Over Time

A 5-Day Unit Study for Elementary Students

Prepare your child to understand the government they’ll inherit.

In a world where headlines about presidential power fill the news daily, how do you help your young learner make sense of it all? This comprehensive unit study takes students on a fascinating journey through American history, exploring how the role of president has transformed from what the Founders envisioned into what it is today.

Your child will discover how the men who wrote the Constitution fiercely debated presidential power—some even suggested having *two* presidents! They’ll learn how early leaders like Thomas Jefferson stretched the rules, how new technologies like radio transformed presidents into national celebrities, and why the careful system of “checks and balances” doesn’t always work the way it was designed.

What Makes This Unit Study Different

At Pallas, we believe children deserve more than pre-packaged conclusions. Instead of telling students what to think, we present historical facts, primary sources, and multiple perspectives so they can develop their own informed views. As James Madison wrote, citizens must “arm themselves with the power knowledge gives” to hold their government accountable. This unit study helps your child begin building that knowledge.

What’s Inside: 5 Complete Sections

Each section follows our proven format designed to build literacy skills and critical thinking:

• Engaging Reading — Age-appropriate non-fiction text that brings history to life
• Vocabulary Terms — Key words like “checks and balances,” “impeachment,” and “executive order” clearly defined
• Discussion Questions & Writing Prompts — Thought-provoking questions with no “wrong” answers when children think carefully and support their ideas
• Coloring Sheets — Featuring historical images including Founding Fathers and primary source documents
• Lapbook Activities — Hands-on projects that reinforce vocabulary and key concepts
• Audio Version Included – Perfect for auditory learners or on-the-go listening!

Your Weekly Schedule

We recommend completing one section per day, making this a perfect one-week study. Daily reading sessions followed by written responses build both comprehension and critical thinking skills. Encourage your child to write at least a few sentences explaining their reasoning—this cultivates the habits of reading and writing that expand cognitive stamina and strengthen literacy.

Topics Covered:

1. The Founders Disagreed About How Much Power a President Should Have
2. Early Presidents Expanded Their Power Through War and Foreign Policy
3. The Twentieth Century Transformed the President Into a National Symbol
4. How Congress and Courts Stopped Checking Presidential Power
5. Why Presidential Power Still Matters for Your Future

🎧 Audio Version Included

Perfect for auditory learners or on-the-go listening! With your purchase, you’ll receive access to a complete podcast version of all lessons, delivered within 24 hours. Listen during car rides, quiet time, or as a companion to the written text.

Why This Matters for Your Family

The decisions being made right now about what presidents can and cannot do will shape the country your children inherit. Understanding these issues isn’t just for adults—it’s for everyone who will live with the consequences. This unit study equips your child with the historical knowledge and thinking skills they need to become responsible citizens and informed leaders.

“Every extraordinary use of power by one president expands the availability of executive branch power for use by future presidents.” Help your child understand why this matters—for their future and for America’s.

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Questions? Contact simit@pallascenter.com
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