Make Sense of the Electoral College, 6-8
Length of Time: 2 Class periods
Description
America elects its president in a complicated way. Some parts make sense while others are quite confusing. But there is a strict set of rules to follow. One can question the wisdom of this 18th century system that dictates to voters in the 21st century. The framers considered voting a privilege and an obligation and ensured that the people would have to work hard for this opportunity to participate in a republican form of government. In this lesson, students will explore how they make choices in their own lives as a way to understand this part of our political process.
Essential Questions
What is the Electoral College and how does the United States elect its president?
Common Core Standards
English Language Arts: History/Social Studies:
Key Ideas and Details
RH.6-8.2. Determine the central ideas or information of a primary or secondary source; provide an accurate summary of the source distinct from prior knowledge or opinions.
Integration of Knowledge and Ideas
RH.6-8.7. Integrate visual information (e.g., in charts, graphs, photographs, videos, or maps) with other information in print and digital texts.
RH.6-8.9. Analyze the relationship between a primary and secondary source on the same topic.
Content Standards
US History 1:
- Revolution through Reconstruction
- Origins of Sectionalism
- Formation and Framework of American Democracy and Concepts of Government
- Political Democratization, 1790-1860