# Lesson Plan: Public Administration – The Civil Service
## Grade Level: Senior Secondary 2
### Topic: The Civil Service: Meaning, Features, Structures/Classes, Functions, Problems and Control
#### The Civil Service Commission: Meaning, Functions, Ombudsman, Meaning and Functions
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### Learning Objectives:
By the end of the lesson, students will be able to:
1. Define Public Administration and Civil Service.
2. Identify and describe the features of the Civil Service.
3. Explain the structure and classes of the Civil Service.
4. Discuss the functions of the Civil Service.
5. Identify and analyze the problems facing the Civil Service.
6. Explain how the Civil Service is controlled and regulated.
7. Define the Civil Service Commission and its functions.
8. Understand the role of the Ombudsman and its functions.
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### Materials Needed:
- Whiteboard and markers
- Projector and computer
- Handouts on Civil Service and Civil Service Commission
- PowerPoint with key concepts and case studies
- Textbooks on Government/Civics
- Videos on Public Administration and Civil Service
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### Lesson Outline:
#### Introduction
- **Time:** 10 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Begin with a brief discussion on what students understand by Public Administration and Civil Service.
- Show a short video clip highlighting key aspects of Civil Service.
#### Lesson Body
1. **Meaning and Features of Civil Service**
- **Time:** 15 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Define Public Administration and Civil Service.
- Discuss the features of Civil Service using slides:
- Permanency
- Neutrality
- Anonymity
- Professionalism
- Class discussion with real-life examples.
2. **Structure and Classes of Civil Service**
- **Time:** 15 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Explain the hierarchical structure of Civil Service.
- Describe the different classes or grades (e.g., Administrative Class, Professional Class, Clerical Class).
- Use a chart to display the hierarchy and role of each class.
3. **Functions of the Civil Service**
- **Time:** 20 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Outline the key functions:
- Policy implementation
- Advising politicians
- Administrative tasks
- Developmental functions
- Group activity: Ask students to work in groups to list additional functions and then share with the class.
4. **Problems Facing the Civil Service**
- **Time:** 20 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Discuss common problems such as:
- Bureaucracy
- Corruption
- Inefficiency
- Lack of accountability
- Case study: Present a problem scenario and ask students to suggest solutions.
5. **Control and Regulation of Civil Service**
- **Time:** 15 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Explain the mechanisms of control such as:
- Merit systems
- Performance evaluations
- Ethical standards
- Discuss the role of Civil Service Commission in maintaining standards and enforcing regulations.
6. **Civil Service Commission**
- **Time:** 15 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Define the Civil Service Commission and outline its main functions.
- Discuss its role in recruitment, training, promotions, and disciplinary actions.
7. **The Ombudsman**
- **Time:** 15 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Define the Ombudsman.
- Explain its functions in tackling maladministration, corruption, and ensuring accountability.
- Show a video clip to illustrate the role of the Ombudsman.
#### Conclusion
- **Time:** 10 minutes
- **Activity:**
- Summarize the key points learned today.
- Open floor for questions and discussions.
- Assign homework: Write a short essay on the importance of Civil Service in good governance.
#### Assessment
- **Time:** Throughout the lesson
- **Activity:**
- Participation in discussions and group activities.
- Completion of homework assignment.
- Quiz next class to assess understanding of key concepts.
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### Homework Assignment:
Write a 500-word essay on the importance of the Civil Service in good governance. Discuss how effective control mechanisms can enhance the performance of the Civil Service.
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### Reflection Notes:
- Gauge student understanding through participation and questions.
- Adjust the duration of activities if necessary.
- Consider additional multimedia resources for better engagement.
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This lesson plan will help senior secondary students understand the integral role of the Civil Service in public administration and governance, and the importance of having effective regulatory bodies and mechanisms.