PBL Projects
Project-Based Learning templates aligned to Tennessee civics standards
Why Project-Based Learning for Civics?
Project-Based Learning (PBL) moves civics beyond memorization by asking students to do what citizens actually do: research real problems, build arguments, communicate with decision-makers, and take informed action. Each project below is designed to develop the knowledge, skills, and dispositions measured on the Tennessee U.S. History EOC — while connecting to the USCIS 100 Civics Questions that define what it means to be an informed American citizen.
These templates are teacher-ready starting points. Every phase, deliverable, and rubric can be adapted to your classroom’s timeline, available technology, and student needs. The differentiation tips in each project are designed to help you reach every learner — from students who need more scaffolding to those who are ready for a real-world challenge.
Showing 6 of 6 projects
Mock Legislature Simulation
Draft, debate, and vote on a real Tennessee bill
“How can we, as Tennessee citizens, use the legislative process to address a real problem in our community?”
Community Issue Research
Investigate, interview, and propose solutions for your Tennessee community
“What is the most pressing issue facing our local community, and what evidence-based solution can we propose to the people in power to address it?”
Constitutional Amendment Project
Propose the 28th Amendment and build your ratification campaign
“If you could add one amendment to the U.S. Constitution today, what would it say, and how would you convince two-thirds of Congress and three-fourths of the states to ratify it?”
Voter Registration Drive Plan
Design a real campaign to fight voter apathy at your school
“What are the real barriers that prevent young people in our community from registering to vote, and how can we design a campaign that actually changes that?”
Supreme Court Case Re-Argument
Re-argue a landmark case — then write your own majority opinion
“If you could re-argue a landmark Supreme Court case with everything you know today, what arguments would you make, and how might the outcome change?”
Civic Action Portfolio
Document your own civic engagement and become an active citizen
“What does it actually look like to be an informed and engaged citizen in my own life, and how can I grow my civic identity over the next four weeks?”
All projects are aligned to Tennessee Department of Education civics standards and the USCIS 100 Civics Questions. Driving questions, phase structures, and assessment rubrics can be adapted freely to fit your course pacing guide. For additional teacher resources, see the Teacher Tools section.