SHS3 Government · Semester 1 Week 2: Basics of Government

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: 3.1.1.LI.2 - Provide reasons for Ghana’s adoption of unitary system of government.

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Recall at least four historical and practical reasons why Ghana adopted a unitary system of government after independence.
Explain how the unitary system promotes national unity, common identity, and a sense of belonging in Ghana.
Analyse the relationship between Ghana’s pre-independence experiences (colonial rule, ethnic diversity, and the fear of secession) and the choice of a unitary system.
Assess how the unitary system protects minority groups while maintaining central authority, citing specific constitutional provisions.
Justify, with reasoned arguments, whether the unitary system remains the best option for Ghana today.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Government and Development (Strand 1)
Sub-strand: Basics of Government (1.1)
Content standard: 3.1.1.CS.1 - Demonstrate knowledge and understanding and application of the systems of government. 3.1.1.LO.1 Examine the relationship between the systems of government and Ghana's adoption of the unitary system of government.
Indicator: 3.1.1.LI.2 - Provide reasons for Ghana's adoption of unitary system of government.
Suggested placement: Semester 1, Week 2 (Week 2 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: NaCCA curriculum document, p. 61

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

Structuring talk for learning: Based on your previous knowledge on the systems of government, discuss why Ghana adopted the unitary system of government. Pay attention to unity, selflessness, common identity and belongingness, underscoring the need to recognise minority groups in the unitary system of government.
Teaching and Learning Resources:
- Government curriculum.
- Britannica Encyclopaedia on systems of government (https://www.britannica.com/browse/Politics-Political-Systems)
- Library information on the systems of government.
- The Constitutions of the Republic of Ghana.
Assessment (3.1.1.AS.2). The document marks these depth-of-knowledge levels for this indicator: Level 4 Extended critical thinking and reasoning.