Saturday, September 28, 2024

Election Connection

T-40-some-odd days from now, here in the US, we have an election ahead. As has been the case over the last decade or so, politics, partisanship, & noise go hand in hand. As with anything these days, social media is a little something that has only made the noise, opinions, & emotions stronger (if not worse). 

But, civics and civil discourse and the importance of voting are all elements that should be taught. If you are looking for some ways to have these conversations in class in a non-candidate, non partisan way, here are some resources that may come in handy for you. No doubt, there is something here for everyone.

Pre-Created Units/Collections Online:

Scholastic.com’s Election 2024

Ben's Guide to the U.S. Government
  • This online resource has several topics concerning the U.S. Government, including the elections process. Age bands: 4-8, 9-13, 14_
  • For all ages, the topics vary in depth, but largely include: 
    • Federally Recognized Tribes of US
    • Federal versus State Government
    • Branches of Government
    • How Laws are Made: The Language of the Law
    • Election Process: The History and Process of Voting 
      • General, not specific to candidates/campaigns or political parties
    • Symbols, Songs, & Structure (Buildings & Monuments) of US Government
    • Historical Documents that shaped the US
      • The Declaration of Independence: 1776
      • The Articles of Confederation: 1777 - 1789
      • The U.S. Constitution: 1789
      • The Bill of Rights: 1789 - 91
      • The Emancipation Proclamation: 1863
      • The Gettysburg Address: 1863

iCivics Election Headquarters
  • This link includes a variety of lessons, online thematic games, videos all about the election process
  • Activities Grade leveled: K-5, 6-8, 9-12 – most are grade 6 and up–with exception of videos

PBS Election Central
  • Collection of grade level lessons: 3-5, 6-8, 9-12
  • Broken into following topics:
    • Civics & Democracy
    • Election Basics
    • How Voting Works
    • Voting Rights
    • News & Current Issues
    • Media & Elections
    • Civic Participation

BrainPop (This is a subscription site.)
  • Topics included:
    • Presidential Election
    • Primaries and Caucuses
    • Political Beliefs
    • Democracy
    • Political Parties
    • Women's Suffrage
    • Voting Rights
    • Presidential Powers
    • Branches of Government
    • Voting
    • Political Party Origins
    • Barack Obama
    • Parliamentary System

Individual Websites/Activities:

Electoral College: 

Infographic for 3 Branches of Government from Kid.Gov

We Are Teachers: 26 Books about Elections for Future Voters

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