What was the purpose of the Preamble?

Download Lesson: Introduction to the Constitution

This 5th grade lesson is designed as an introduction to the study of the Constitution. The lesson’s focus on the language of the Preamble provides teachers with an opportunity to increase student reading comprehension and disciplinary understanding. Through a close reading of the Preamble, students can further develop their ability to compare and contrast documents and make their own historical interpretations. In answering the lesson focus question, What was the Purpose of the Preamble?, students prepare to learn about the rights and responsibilities detailed in the Constitution and the purpose for its structure of government.