Academic Programs –> U.S. Capitol

The U.S. Capitol

During this unit, students examine the three branches of government, with particular focus on the legislative branch.  They explore the composition of Congress and the ways voting power is determined in its two houses.  Students also explore Washington, DC's lack of voting representation in Congress and ways in which that fact can influence their lives.  In addition, students discover the history of the Capitol itself, including its move from Philadelphia to Washington, DC and the significant architectural enhancements it has undergone since its completion in 1800.  When students visit the Capitol, they get to explore the Capitol's vast rotunda, National Statuary Hall, and Crypt, learning, at each stop, about the different people and events depicted throughout.

Students inspect the paintings in the ceiling high above the rotunda.  (top left) Before entering the Capitol, students pause for a photo.  (top right) The tour guide talks with the students about some of the historical events and people depicted in the rotunda. (right) By a show of hands, students indicate that they can hear their guide's voice from across the room in Statuary Hall's famed "whisper spot". (below right) With the Washington Monument as backdrop, students head into the Capitol. (below left)

To see select archived trips to the U.S. Capitol, click on the links below.