This activity is designed to introduce students to the term "nation-state." It is vital for further understanding that the students are aware of the four essential features of a nation-state and why each is important to the survival of that state.

Students should be able to explain the meaning of the terms civic life, politics, and government.

Students should have examined the following vocabulary terms prior to discussion: Territory, Population, Government and Sovereignty.

The teacher should have assigned a reading on this particular subject matter prior to class discussion. In addition, the teacher should have projection device to be used to present an effective PowerPoint presentation to stimulate class discussion.

A supplemental worksheet analyzing the four essential features of a state should be available for student use. In the past, I have used a worksheet which lists the features and several examples, allowing the student to match them accurately. A short quiz should follow to further assess comprehension.

The student will participate in class discussion on the Four Essential Features of a Nation-State prompted by a PowerPoint presentation.

Teacher Computer/CD-ROM Materials Computer Projection Device TV PowerPoint Capabilities