whereas (conjunction) although, in contrast with the fact that

• Sample Sentence: Some Americans want to switch to a popular vote, whereas others prefer the current Electoral College system.

• Turn and Talk: How is middle school different from elementary school? (You can say: In elementary school _____, whereas in middle school _____.)

majority (noun) more than half of the total number

• Sample Sentence: Just because a candidate gets the majority of citizens’ votes does not necessarily mean they win the election.

• Turn and Talk: What did you spend the majority of your time doing last weekend?

represent (verb) to give a clear understanding of (something or someone); to serve as a sign of (something or someone)

• Sample Sentence: Those who support the Electoral College say it represents the interests of all states in a balanced way. 

• Turn and Talk: What actor would best represent you in a movie about your life?

electoral (adjective) related to a formal choice by vote; to do with an election

• Sample Sentence: The Electoral College consists of 538 members who vote to select the next president.

• Turn and Talk: Should an electoral system focus on the interests of the majority of people, or should an electoral system focus on all people’s interests?

assign (verb) to give (something) to another; to set as a task

• Sample Sentence: The U.S. Constitution assigns each state electors equal to the number of its senators and representatives in Congress.

• Turn and Talk: Do your teachers assign too much homework or about the right amount?