Tyler Owens plans to become a senator one day.

He got practice during simulated congressional hearings Friday at Lake Forest Hills Elementary School.

"I love history and doing research," the 11-year-old said. "This was about being prepared and knowing what you were presenting and really understanding the questions you were being asked. It was good practice for me if I become senator when I get older."

Tyler and his fellow Lake Forest Hills fifth-graders presented papers to a panel of judges. Topics included "How well are your rights protected and what more can be done?" "As democratic citizens, do we have responsibilities to other nations of the world?" and "Do you think every citizen should be required to participate in his/her government?"

Judges included area lawyers, legislators, professors and former teachers.

Each week, the pupils have learned about the Constitution and how it was framed, and the rights and responsibilities of citizens, said Edythe Thompkins, a fifth-grade history teacher.

"When they have to study the Constitution and how it shapes our government, it becomes more real to them," she said. "They begin to see the role that they, as citizens, play in government and become excited about it."

Pupils learned why the Constitution is important.

"If we didn't have a government with a Constitution, then people would do what they want because there wouldn't be any rules," said Symphoni Hillman, 11. "The Constitution lets us know what the government can and can't do, and lets the people know what we can and can't do."

Ms. Thompkins said she hopes the experience will urge the pupils to become engaged in government as adults.

"I want them to understand that as a citizen they have certain rights, and I want them to understand those rights," she said. "Along with those rights, they have responsibilities as well.

''I want them to be responsible citizens. I want them to vote. I want them to be informed. I want them to participate in the process."

This was the second year the school has held the simulated hearings.

Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.