By Taylor Ann Ono
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At the Judiciary History Center on Feb. 4, AP Government and Politics students participated in the We the People Competition, receiving second place overall and two first places in units one and two. In this competition, students are asked high-skilled questions that relate to the nation’s history and are then judged on their responses.
“Just being a more informed and aware citizen is really the more important part of this process. (These) kids have participated in We the People, these students who I see many of them as the future leaders of America. Some of them are very interested in politics, and they want to get involved, they want to run for office, and especially if you’re going into those types of careers, having that in depth understanding is really important,” explained Advanced Placement Government and Politics teacher Jason Duncan.
While most have never competed in a competition such as this, they continued to dedicate weeks of practice in preparation. “We started it after winter break and only had then (until) this time to do it, and like it sounds pretty easy, ‘Oh just prepare for one question’, but you also have to be able to answer follow up questions and know your material,” stated Junior Kamaile Fitzgerald.
The competition encouraged students to gain a more in-depth understanding of United States history and government. “We the People is a way in which that you can get students involved in building that understanding, you know to a high level of depth than you came to with traditional instruction,” said Duncan. “It’s just part of my bigger picture of kids and adults alike knowing how our country works, (how) our government works, you know why do we make certain decisions the way we do, what’s the importance of voting, what’s are our constitutional rights, how do we change and influence government.” Junior Emma Lake added, “It’s also really interesting to say my opinion about different constitutional issues. It’s kind of different and nice to be able to formulate my own opinion about things.”
The students have learned and benefitted a great deal from this experience. “I like pushing students to work to (a) higher potential, and I also like to provide them opportunities for growth. It’s great when students excel in academics in the classroom, but we need to provide students who are a little bit nerdy about politics (with an opportunity) to show what they know. They’ll probably be super nervous but in the end, it’ll be memorable for them. We don’t always remember everything we learn, we remember experiences, and this would be an experience that they will remember,” said Duncan. Fitzgerald added, “(This competition is important because) it’s our government, and it pertains to students. (For example) our question is about social media and rights, so knowing those things (students won’t) get in trouble, or if (they) do, (they’ll) understand where (they) stand with the law.”
In addition to the extensive knowledge the students gained, they also formed a strong bond amongst others in the competition. “I really like working with my team,” exclaimed Lake. “I’ve been getting to see these people over the course of the year so I know them really well. I like them a lot, so basically it’s just a team with your friends, which is really nice.”
This competition serves as a great influence and indicator for work in policy or government. With positive feedback from the judges under their belt the students take their win with them as they continue the curriculum for the rest of the year.
