Introduction
In Chapter 29, students learn about the specific duties and powers of the state legislature and governor, as well as how the state finances its services. The textbook describes the executive, legislative, and judicial powers of the governor. This activity allows students to get a closer look at the divisions that make up the office of the governor.

Lesson Description
In this lesson, students will visit the State of Texas Web site to learn more about the Office of the Governor. Students will read about several of the divisions and units that make up the Office of the Governor, including the Governor's Commission for Women. After answering several questions, students will write a nomination for a woman they know to be inducted into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame.

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills

7.15 Government
(A) describe the structure and functions of government at municipal, county, and state levels

7.21 Social studies skills
(A) differentiate between, locate, and use primary and secondary sources such as computer software, databases, media and news services, biographies, interviews, and artifacts to acquire information about Texas

7.22 Social studies skills
(B) use standard grammar, spelling, sentence structure, and punctuation
(D) create written, oral, and visual presentations of social studies information

Instructional Objectives

1. The student will be able to identify key divisions in the Office of the Governor.
2. The student will be able to describe various functions and responsibilities of key divisions.
3. The student will be able to write a nomination of a woman they know to be inducted into the Texas Women's Hall of Fame.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. A Governor may make about 3,000 appointments during a four-year term.
2. The Texas Film Commission works to increase film, television, and multimedia production in the state. The Texas Music Office promotes the development of the state's music industry by serving as the information clearinghouse for Texas music businesses, events, organizations, and talent.
3. You would write to the Scheduling Office.
4. The Governor's Commission for Women sponsors the Texas Women's Hall of Fame.
5. Students' nominations will vary. Ask students to share their nominations with the rest of the class.

Go To Student Web Activity