During Jackson's presidency, he had two cabinets advising him. One was the official president's cabinet, the other was his own group, commonly known as the "kitchen cabinet". Using a T Chart, students will compare and contrast what a true cabinet position does (and who held it) alongside who Jackson chose to listen to (and what their positions were). This will help them better understand the decisions made during Jackson's two terms and provide an easy reference for students to look back on.
Have students research and explain the evolution of the presidential cabinet, as it has grown from the beginning of American politics, and the position of the presidency. Examine the current presidential cabinet and what their roles are advising the president. Have students research if there are still any external influences on the president today.
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Use a T Chart to compare and contrast Jackson's presidential cabinet with his "kitchen cabinet".
Grade Level 9-10
Difficulty Level 1 (Introducing / Reinforcing)
Type of Assignment Individual or Group