This unit is designed to allow 8th grade American History students of all levels and abilities to see the Constitution as a tool that actually affects them and their families. The time period I have chosen for this unit is the 1960s and its melee of political, cultural, and legal occurrences. Many of these events either directly used or changed the Constitution for the better or worse, depending on one’s views. This time period will clearly show that if something in the government is not working or meeting the needs of the times, it can be changed. Students today are extremely interested in the 1960s and using this as my base I will hold the students’ interest. More importantly, the 1960s demonstrates how a person, a group of people, an event, or a movement can facilitate making necessary changes occur. It is hoped that the words and beliefs of Thomas Jefferson on changing a government when it does not meet the people’s needs will become real to the students instead of something they read in their textbook. The curriculum includes study of Miranda vs. Arizona and the ratification of the 26th Amendment. It is designed to be used in part or in whole, and last anywhere from one week to four weeks, depending on the needs and interests of the particular class.