Learning Democracy by Doing Democracy: A We the People Hearing
Posted in James Madison Legacy Project Expansion We the People: National Symposium on Civic Education
The culminating activity of the We the People curriculum is a simulated congressional hearing, an authentic performance assessment. Students work in groups to answer questions related to one of the six We the People units, prepare opening statements, and respond to follow-up questions from a panel of judges. An effective hearing requires research, collaboration, confidence, and a deep understanding of civics.
Jessica Murphy, a We the People teacher at Reservoir High School in Howard County, Maryland, brought six students to present a live simulated congressional hearing at the symposium. Her students offered a powerful demonstration of the traits that high-quality civic education develops through these hearings.
The students answered challenging questions about classical republicanism and natural rights and how these sometimes competing philosophies have influenced both the founding period and current events. They responded thoughtfully to the judges’ questions, building on one another’s points, and demonstrating an understanding that went beyond memorization.
Following the hearing, the students discussed their We the People experience with the audience. Although social studies was not their favorite subject, they appreciated how the hearing made them stronger writers, more effective at developing arguments, and more civically engaged. The hearings require collaboration, with each student expected to contribute. This requires taking turns, listening closely, expanding on what others have said, and offering alternative perspectives. Students formed friendships and gained a better understanding of their peers’ perspectives and experiences. Some described their initial hesitation about speaking in public, yet in front of nearly 200 people, the group appeared poised, confident, and prepared for every question.
Murphy praised the hearings for preparing her students for rigorous academic work. She noted that the assignment helped them succeed on the AP Government exam, outperforming classes that did not use We the People. Just as important, she observed how much her students grew throughout the process. They strengthened their critical thinking skills, learned more about their own opinions and values, and became more adept at supporting their arguments with evidence. Their success on stage reflected both their hard work and the support of a teacher who believed they were capable of meeting a demanding challenge.
The hearing was a highlight of the symposium. It demonstrated that powerful civic education is not only about what students know, but also about what they can do with that knowledge. The students from Reservoir High School illustrated how civic education engages students in high-level thinking, builds confidence, strengthens collaboration, and helps develop engaged citizens.