Democracy in Action: Understanding Elections

Abby Heubaum

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Democracy in Action: Understanding Elections

Explore democratic elections

This lesson introduces 8th-grade students to the concept of democracy and the election process. Students will explore how democratic elections work and why they are essential for governance. This lesson is important as it helps students understand the foundational principles of democracy, encouraging informed and active citizenship.

Audience

8th Grade Students

Time

45 mins

Approach

Explore democratic elections

Materials

Discussion Questions, Worksheet on Election Process, Quiz on Democracy and Elections, and Answer Key for Quiz

Step 1

Introduction to Democracy

10 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on what students know about democracy.
Explain the basic principles of democracy, emphasizing participation and representation.

Step 2

Exploring the Election Process

15 mins

Distribute the worksheet on the election process.
Guide students through the steps of how elections are conducted in a democracy.
Discuss the roles of different participants in an election (candidates, voters, election officials).

Step 3

Discussion on Importance of Elections

10 mins

Use the discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about why elections are crucial for governance.
Encourage students to think about the impact of elections on their community and country.

Step 4

Quiz and Review

10 mins

Administer the quiz on democracy and elections.
Review the answers using the answer key, clarifying any misunderstandings.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Summarize the key points of the lesson.
Encourage students to reflect on how they can participate in democratic processes in the future.

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Discussion

Discussion on Importance of Elections

A guided discussion to help students understand the significance of elections in a democracy.

Why are elections important in a democracy?

Discuss how elections allow citizens to choose their leaders and influence government policies.

What might happen if elections were not held regularly?

Explore the potential consequences of not having regular elections, such as lack of representation and accountability.

Worksheet

Worksheet on Election Process

This worksheet helps students understand the steps involved in conducting an election.

List the steps involved in the election process.

Think about registration, campaigning, voting, and counting.

Who are the key participants in an election, and what are their roles?

Consider candidates, voters, and election officials.

Quiz

Quiz on Democracy and Elections

Answer Key

Answer Key for Quiz

The answer key provides correct answers and explanations for the quiz on democracy and elections.

What is the main purpose of an election in a democracy?

To choose leaders
Elections allow citizens to choose their leaders, ensuring representation and accountability.

Who can vote in a democratic election?

All citizens of voting age
In a democracy, all citizens of voting age have the right to vote, promoting equality and participation.