What does the Constitution actually say — and why should kids care?
In this 5 for 5 interview, Amanda Zieba sits down with Ben Sheehan, author of What Does the Constitution Say?, to break down how our democracy works in ways that are clear, honest, and accessible for young people.
This conversation goes beyond memorizing amendments. Ben shares thoughtful insights about:
• Why the Constitution is considered a “living document”
• What powers the President does (and doesn’t) have
• How kids can participate in democracy before they’re old enough to vote
• Why understanding civics makes you harder to mislead
• How to explain big ideas without talking down to young readers
This episode also features a fast-paced “Myth or Constitution?” lightning round, where common civic misconceptions are put to the test.
Whether you’re a teacher looking for engaging civics content, a parent wanting to spark meaningful conversations, or a student curious about how government really works, this interview invites you into the conversation.
Democracy isn’t something that just happens around us — it’s something we participate in.
Perfect for classroom use: ELA teachers, social studies teachers, librarians, and media specialists can use this video as part of a civics unit, media literacy lesson, Constitution Day activity, or discussion on democratic participation.
Companion classroom worksheets — including a Myth or Constitution? activity and “Democracy Is a Verb” reflection sheet — are available here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5-for-5-with-the-Word-Nerd-Interviews-on-Creative-Careers-in-Communication-15567014
About 5 for 5:
5 for 5 is a short-form interview series featuring authors and creators answering five thoughtful questions designed to spark curiosity, reflection, and conversation.
Music Credit: Amanda Zieba and Suno Pro (2026)
All slides designed by Amanda Zieba in Canva Pro (2026)
#BenSheehan #WhatDoesTheConstitutionSay #CivicsEducation #DemocracyIsAVerb #MythOrConstitution #AuthorInterview #5for5 #MiddleSchoolELA #SocialStudiesClassroom #ConstitutionDay #StudentEngagement #MediaLiteracy #LearningWithTheWordNerd
In this 5 for 5 interview, Amanda Zieba sits down with Ben Sheehan, author of What Does the Constitution Say?, to break down how our democracy works in ways that are clear, honest, and accessible for young people.
This conversation goes beyond memorizing amendments. Ben shares thoughtful insights about:
• Why the Constitution is considered a “living document”
• What powers the President does (and doesn’t) have
• How kids can participate in democracy before they’re old enough to vote
• Why understanding civics makes you harder to mislead
• How to explain big ideas without talking down to young readers
This episode also features a fast-paced “Myth or Constitution?” lightning round, where common civic misconceptions are put to the test.
Whether you’re a teacher looking for engaging civics content, a parent wanting to spark meaningful conversations, or a student curious about how government really works, this interview invites you into the conversation.
Democracy isn’t something that just happens around us — it’s something we participate in.
Perfect for classroom use: ELA teachers, social studies teachers, librarians, and media specialists can use this video as part of a civics unit, media literacy lesson, Constitution Day activity, or discussion on democratic participation.
Companion classroom worksheets — including a Myth or Constitution? activity and “Democracy Is a Verb” reflection sheet — are available here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/5-for-5-with-the-Word-Nerd-Interviews-on-Creative-Careers-in-Communication-15567014
About 5 for 5:
5 for 5 is a short-form interview series featuring authors and creators answering five thoughtful questions designed to spark curiosity, reflection, and conversation.
Music Credit: Amanda Zieba and Suno Pro (2026)
All slides designed by Amanda Zieba in Canva Pro (2026)
#BenSheehan #WhatDoesTheConstitutionSay #CivicsEducation #DemocracyIsAVerb #MythOrConstitution #AuthorInterview #5for5 #MiddleSchoolELA #SocialStudiesClassroom #ConstitutionDay #StudentEngagement #MediaLiteracy #LearningWithTheWordNerd