Title: 1979 Presidential Constitution
Grade Level: Senior Secondary 2
Subject: Government
Duration: 60 minutes
Lesson Objective: By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:
1. Understand the historical context and significance of the 1979 Presidential Constitution in Nigeria.
2. Identify and explain the key features and principles of the 1979 Presidential Constitution.
3. Discuss the impact of the 1979 Constitution on Nigeria's political landscape and governance.
Materials Needed:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and computer for video/audio materials
- Handouts of the 1979 Presidential Constitution
- Copies of key amendments and notes
Lesson Structure:
1. Introduction (10 minutes)
- Greeting and roll call
- Brief warm-up discussion: "What are constitutions, and why do countries have them?"
- Overview of the day’s objectives and lesson structure.
2. Historical Context and Background (10 minutes)
- Presentation on the historical context leading up to the 1979 Presidential Constitution: Post-colonial Nigeria, military rule, and the need for a new constitution.
- Use of timeline visuals to highlight key events between independence and 1979.
3. Key Features of the 1979 Presidential Constitution (20 minutes)
- Lecture and interactive discussion:
a. Presidential system of government: Separation of powers between the Executive, Legislature, and Judiciary.
b. Federal structure: Distribution of powers and responsibilities between federal and state governments.
c. Fundamental Human Rights: Highlighting key sections on civil liberties and freedoms.
- Classroom activity: Hand out sections of the constitution and have student groups summarize and present key points.
4. Impact and Legacy (10 minutes)
- Discussion on the short-term and long-term impacts of the 1979 Constitution on Nigeria's governance and political development.
- How the constitution influenced subsequent political events, like the return to military rule and later constitutions.
5. Video/Audio Material (5 minutes)
- Short video or audio clip on the inauguration of Nigeria’s Second Republic or speeches from key figures during that era to engage students and provide real-world context.
6. Assessment and Review (5 minutes)
- Quick quiz or Q&A session to assess understanding.
- Reflective discussion: "How do you think the 1979 Constitution shaped modern Nigeria?"
- Concluding thoughts and open floor for students’ questions and comments.
7. Assignment (Post-Class)
- Research homework: Students to write a brief essay on how the principles of the 1979 Presidential Constitution are reflected or have evolved in Nigeria's current political system.
8. Closing (5 minutes)
- Recap of key points covered in the lesson.
- Preview of the next lesson topic.
- Thank students for their participation and engagement.
This lesson plan is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the 1979 Presidential Constitution, blending historical context with interactive learning to ensure a deeper understanding of its importance and impact.