Early Years Civics: Classroom Citizenship Agreements (F–2 Civics & Citizenship)

Introduction

Classroom Citizenship Agreements help young learners understand the concepts of rights, responsibilities and belonging. This simple, collaborative activity is ideal for Foundation to Year 2 Civics and Citizenship and supports social‑emotional learning. By co‑creating a shared agreement, students learn how communities function and how their actions contribute to a positive classroom environment.

An exmaple of the 'Classroom Constitution' from 'NYS Learning Standards'

How to Use It in the Classroom

Teachers guide students through a discussion about what makes a classroom safe, fair and welcoming. Students brainstorm rights (e.g., “We have the right to feel safe”) and responsibilities (e.g., “We take care of our things”). The class then creates a visual agreement using drawings, symbols or photos. This activity builds early civic understanding, supports oral language development, and provides a reference point for behaviour expectations throughout the year.

Five practical tips, tricks and ideas for the classroom

• Use picture books as conversation starters
• Create a visual agreement with photos of students modelling behaviours
• Revisit the agreement each term to reflect and update
• Use simple symbols for emerging readers
• Display the agreement at student eye‑level for accessibility

Australian Curriculum Connections

• AC9HC1K01 – How people belong to groups and communities
• AC9HC2K01 – Roles, rights and responsibilities in the classroom
• AC9HC1S01 – Identify ways people participate in groups
• AC9HC2S01 – Make decisions and take action to support the community
• AC9HC2S02 – Communicate ideas about belonging and responsibility