3.3: Federalism - Homework

U.S. Federalism and Social Equity

Examine the relationship between US federalism and social equity by exploring how the distribution of power between state and federal government impacts access to rights, resources, and protections.

1. Research and Short Answer Questions

Using class materials, textbooks, and additional research, answer the following questions in 3–5 sentences each:

- How does federalism impact social equity? Provide an example of a policy area where state and federal governments have disagreed on issues of fairness or access.

- What role did the Civil Rights Act of 1964 play in shaping federalism? How did it affect states’ rights in addressing racial and economic inequality?

- How does the federal government promote equity in education, healthcare, or labor laws? Provide a specific example (e.g., Title IX, Medicaid, the Americans with Disabilities Act).

- Why do some states have stronger social safety nets than others? Discuss how federalism allows for policy differences among states and its consequences for social equity.

2. Case Study Analysis

Choose ONE of the following topics and write a 250-word analysis on how federalism affects equity in this area:

- Medicaid Expansion – Why do some states opt out? How does this impact healthcare access?

- Voting Rights – How do state policies on voter ID laws and redistricting affect marginalized communities?

- Environmental Justice & Federal Regulations – How do state vs. federal policies impact communities of color and low-income areas?

- Education Funding & Inequality – How do disparities in state funding and federal programs affect public school quality?

In your analysis, address:

• How does this issue highlight tensions between state and federal control?
• What are the consequences for equity and fairness?
• Should the federal government intervene more or less in this area? Why?
• Do you think federalism helps or hinders social equity in the U.S.?

Evaluation Rubric

Criteria	Excellent (A)	Good (B)	Satisfactory (C)	Needs Improvement (D/F)
1. Content Accuracy & Relevance	All answers are factually accurate, fully address the prompt, and are highly relevant to federalism and equity.	Most answers are accurate and clearly address the questions; minor gaps in depth or connection.	Answers are somewhat accurate but lack detail or full relevance to the topic.	Answers are inaccurate, off-topic, or fail to address the questions.
2. Depth of Analysis	Demonstrates excellent critical thinking; analysis is insightful and shows clear understanding of how federalism impacts equity.	Provides thoughtful analysis with some insight; demonstrates understanding of the core themes.	Basic analysis present; ideas are underdeveloped or lack clarity.	Minimal or no analysis; answers are vague, superficial, or repetitive.
3. Use of Evidence & Examples	Effectively uses specific and appropriate examples (e.g., policies, laws, cases) to support claims.	Examples are relevant but could be more specific or better integrated.	Few examples used, or examples are too general or loosely connected.	Lacks relevant examples; little to no supporting evidence.
4. Organization & Clarity	Responses are clearly written, well-structured, and free of grammar/mechanical errors.	Mostly well-written with minor issues in clarity or structure.	Organization is inconsistent; grammar/mechanical errors occasionally interfere with meaning.	Poorly organized, unclear, and/or difficult to understand due to errors.
5. Case Study Analysis (250 words)	Provides a well-developed and focused analysis with strong connections to federalism and equity; thoroughly explains consequences.	Covers the topic with clarity; includes some analysis of federal-state dynamics and implications.	Touches on the topic but lacks depth or misses connections to core issues.	Incomplete, vague, or does not demonstrate an understanding of the topic.