Forms Of Government: What's the Score?

Presented in a dramatized game show format reminiscent of Jeopardy, six forms of government are introduced, in the form of contestants, and answer questions about themselves so the audience can ultimately decide which form of government they would like to live under. Absolute Monarchy, Representative Democracy, Communism, Socialism, and Fascism are the primary contestants; however, Anarchy crashes the party occasionally. Questions are taken from five categories, including power, law and order, and liberty and personal freedom. While this program is engaging and will help students understand, in rudimentary fashion, the differences between forms of government, it also reinforces stereotypes through each government's characterizations. Additionally, the host's attitude toward each form of government is readily apparent from his verbal comments and body language. The viewer knows which form of government the host likes after the first round. Used to initiate class discussion or for an introduction to a chapter on forms of government, this program might prove valuable to upper elementary and junior high schools. Otherwise, it's an optional purchase. (J. Scholtz)