WHY Vote?

ELA/ss

How can we increase voter participation?

The United States has one of the lowest rates of voter turnout in the developed world. Nearly half of those eligible to vote elect not to do so. A healthy democracy requires the participation of its citizens and voting is a fundamental element to participation. In this studio, we will examine some unique quirks to the U.S. voting system, what compels people to vote, and craft a message to potential voters in an effort to increase voter turnout.

COMPETENCIES AND SKILLS DEFINED

What will I be able to do after this studio?

English Competencies:

ELA 2 - Expressing Ideas

- 2.1 - Identify core message
- 2.2 - Develop message
- 2.3 - Prepare the medium
- 2.4 - Finalize
- 2.5 - Reflect

ELA 4 - Collaborative Discussion

- 4.1 - Demonstrate preparedness and responsibility
- 4.2 - Pose and respond to questions
- 4.3 - Reflect on new learning

Social Studies Competencies

SS 2 - Engaging as a Citizen

- 2.1 - Participate in community
- 2.2 - Examine enduring problems
- 2.3 - Build civic knowledge
- 2.4 - Take action to improve my community

SS 3 - Understanding Geographic Representation

- 3.1 - Display and explain spatial patterns
- 3.2 - Apply geographic tools

West Ada LEARNING CYCLE

To the left is our West Ada Academies Learning Cycle. This course is designed with content that fits into one of five categories: Engage, Explore, Practice, Apply, and Reflect. You will move through the stages of the learning cycle as you engage in the studio's driving questions, and then learn, practice, and apply the target skills listed above. When you get to the apply stage, you will make a presentation or use another method to show what you know. Finally, at each Milestone and again at the end of the studio, you will reflect on your project and what you have learned.

ICONS TO KNOW

Throughout the course you will see these two icons. They will tell you whether you are able to complete each assignment individually, or whether it must be done collaboratively (with a partner or group).