Social studies simulations traditionally model legislative bodies, court proceedings, or elections. They simulate the current structure of the United States, falling short in teaching how the United States system came into existence and why it is structured the way it is.

Self-Government Works does not simulate the current system, it simulates the process of discovering, building, and maintaining self-government. It is not a reenactment of history, but parallels history. As students learn American history they experience real self-governance in the classroom. They experience oppression, have the choice to remove themselves from oppression, create their own system of government, and learn to maintain that system.

The Self-Government Works simulation is designed for an American History class. It is not a replacement for your existing curriculum, but is a customizable supplement that lasts 10-13 weeks.

Each of the four phases are intended to span one week, with two to three weeks between phases for your existing instruction. There are a few interim lessons and activities intended for use between the phases to keep the simulation progressing.

The simulation provides foundational instruction to better prepare the student for greater insight and interest in government. When students learn how and why the United States came to be, they become far more engaged in the subject.

The simulation can be adapted for a U.S. Government class by conducting each unit consecutively, or with one week between phases. Using this format, the simulation will last 4-8 weeks.