Tennessee’s Governor

The government of Tennessee, like that of the United States, is a republic. In a republic, people elect representatives to carry out their wishes. One of the most important officials Tennesseans elect is the governor, who is the head of the executive branch of state government. In this lesson, students will explore the role of the governor, the goals of a specific governor, how the governor reaches his goals, and the qualities governors need to be effective leaders. 

Weblink address (URL): 
Tennessee’s Governor
Home Page- source

Standards & Objectives

Learning objectives: 

In the course of the lesson, students will…

  • Develop an understanding of the role of the governor in Tennessee’s government.
  • Analyze the goals of Bill Haslam’s administration.
  • Analyze the means used by Governor Haslam to achieve his goals.
  • Determine what makes an effective governor.
Essential and guiding questions: 
  • In what areas does Tennessee need to improve in order make the lives of its citizens better?
  • What can one learn about a governor’s plans for his administration in the State of the State address the governor makes each year?
  • What other individuals or groups must the governor work with to achieve his goals?

Lesson Variations

Blooms taxonomy level: 
Applying
Extension suggestions: 

Option for extension: Invite state legislators or local elected officials to come speak to the classroom about their role in government.

Helpful Hints

Materials Needed:

  • Tennessee Blue Book (PDFs are provided for specific pages)
    • pgs. 204 - 205, graphic organizer of the executive branch and introduction
    • pgs. 207 - 208, Office of the Governor
    • pgs. 687 – 710, Constitution of the State of Tennessee
  • Handouts attached to this lesson
    • Activity 1: Duties of the Governor, Teacher Answer Key
    • Activity 2: Goals/Platform of the Governor
    • Activity 3: The Veto Power
  • Printed articles about leadership (if online capability not available)
    • Great Leadership Isn't About You (Harvard Business Review, John Michel)
    • The Characteristics Of A True Leader (Forbes, Amy Rees Anderson)
    • 9 Super-Successful People Share Their Biggest Leadership Secrets (Business Insider, Jacquelyn Smith and Rachel Sugar)
    • Leadership and Vision and Traits of Leadership (American Library Association)