Topic 6: Elections
Enduring Understandings :
Elections are how the public identifies and approves those individuals who will make political decisions for the common good. This is “consent of the governed”.
Elections are also how we discuss and debate political issues. Therefore, elections are inherently controversial and critical thinking skills need to be used to understand facts and issues.
Elections are at the core of how a representative democracy functions. The right to vote is a critical component of American political life.
Vocabulary
Accuracy ● Confirmation Bias ● Consent of the governed ● Controversy ● Distracting news ● Elected representatives ● Evaluate ● Fabricated news ● Facts ● Media ● Mock Election ● Reliable ● Responsibilities ● Right to Vote ● Sources
Electoral College Explained
Optional Lesson:
In this lesson, students evaluate hypothetical candidates by establishing and applying their own criteria for selecting public officials. Through a variety of activities, students assess political candidates based on their qualifications, experience, campaign speeches and campaign materials. Students track campaign promises, explore voting records and evaluate the legitimacy of information resources. The role of the media, fundraising and opinion polls in the electoral process is also discussed. Candidate Evaluation - iCivics