The-Executive-Branch-Project

In this project you will conduct research to examine the function of the executive departments of the United States government. Using the links provided on the project page, you will select and research one of the 15 executive departments and prepare a presentation on your findings.

To begin, follow this link to SAS Curriculum Pathways Project 409. In the bottom left-hand corner, enter melody9off in the Student User Name, then click “log in.” No password will be needed.

Proceed through the steps as directed (except for #6). You can create a physical visual display with poster board or other artwork, or a digital display in PowerPoint or other software. After you have created the display, record or video yourself delivering your presentation. Imagine that you are speaking to a classroom of your peers.

Your presentation will be evaluated on the visual appeal of the display, fluency of the spoken presentation, and the quality of information presented. As part of your PowerPoint or submitted as a separated document, you should document the sources used in the presentation.

How you will do it

1. Review the history and role of the The Executive Branch.
2. Choose and research one of the 15 executive departments: Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, Education, Energy, Health and Human Services, Homeland Security, Housing and Urban Development, Interior, Justice, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury, or Veteran’s Affairs.
3. Using the suggested web site and any other appropriate resources, research your selected executive department. Take notes on the current leadership, mission or goals, responsibilities, and subordinate agencies. Find out when (and if possible, why) the department was created. Unless otherwise noted, follow the About link from the department’s main web site for initial research. Additionally, research a recent program or activity; check the site for news items or press releases.
4. Graphically organize your research into a visual display with text. Visually connect or relate the executive department’s creation, goals, current leadership, responsibilities, and subordinate agencies.
5. In class, present your graphic display. Explain the organization and role of the department in the executive branch and highlight a recent program or activity.
6. After the presentations are complete, search through the daily newspaper for stories involving the federal government and identify which agencies and activities are involved in each story. Be prepared to share what you found in class

Web Sites:

Note: some links direct you to external web sites. These sites and their content are not controlled by SAS.

Federal Executive Branch

Links to executive departments and their subordinate agencies and activities.

A-Z Index of U.S. Government Departments and Agencies

Offers additional links to federal departments and agencies.

Department of Agriculture

Department of Commerce

Department of Defense

Department of Education

Department of Energy

Department of Health and Human Services

Department of Homeland Security

Department of Housing and Urban Development

Department of the Interior

Department of Justice

Department of Labor

Department of State

Department of Transportation

Department of Treasury

Department of Veteran’s Affairs

Environmental Protection Agency