How Can I Design A Simulation Activity That Accurately Reflects The Negotiated Bicameralism Process In The Australian Parliament, Specifically For A Year 9 Civics Class, To Help Students Understand The Intricacies Of The Senate's Role In Reviewing And Revising Bills, While Also Incorporating The Perspectives Of Minor Party And Independent Senators?

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Simulation Activity: Negotiated Bicameralism in the Australian Senate

Objective:
To educate Year 9 students on the Senate's role in reviewing and revising bills, emphasizing the influence of minor parties and independents through an engaging role-play simulation.

Duration:
Approximately 110 minutes (two class periods)

Materials Needed:

  • Mock bill (e.g., environmental regulation or social media privacy)
  • Role cards for senators (government, opposition, minor parties, independents)
  • Amendment proposal templates
  • Debate procedure guidelines
  • Reflection journals

Preparation:

  1. Research Task: Students research a current issue and how the Senate has handled similar bills.
  2. Bill Selection: Choose a relevant and relatable bill for the simulation.

Simulation Outline:

  1. Introduction to the Senate (20 mins)

    • Explain the structure and role of the Senate, focusing on state representation and the influence of minor parties and independents.
    • Assign roles: government, opposition, minor parties, independents, and a facilitator.

  2. Committee Stage and Debate (40 mins)

    • Senators review the bill and propose amendments in small groups.
    • Conduct a Senate debate where proposed amendments are discussed and voted on.

  3. Negotiation and Final Vote (30 mins)

    • If the bill is amended, it is sent back to the House of Representatives.
    • Facilitate negotiations between the House and Senate to reach a compromise.
    • Conduct a final vote in the Senate on the compromise bill.

  4. Reflection and Debrief (20 mins)

    • Students reflect on the process, discussing challenges and outcomes.
    • Write reflections on the Senate's role and the influence of minor parties.

Assessment:

  • Participation in debates and negotiations.
  • Reflection journals on the Senate's role and minor party influence.
  • Group presentation on the bill's journey through Parliament.

Differentiation:

  • Provide scaffolding materials (templates, debate points).
  • Encourage group work for collaborative support.

Conclusion: The simulation will engage students in understanding the Senate's role and the negotiation dynamics in Australian Parliament, highlighting the impact of minor parties and independents.