Elections

Activity and reading on soft money and hardball politics.

Two student readings describe the origin of the gerrymander, its likely effects following the 2010 elections, and efforts to reform redistricting systems. Discussion questions and suggestions for further student inquiry and citizenship follow.

Student readings examine Senate dysfunction (including anachronistic rules, endless fundraising, and delaying tactics) and the issue of cloture and filibuster. Discussion questions and a writing and citizenship activity follow.

As midterm elections approach, three student readings, discussion questions, and suggestions for inquiry engage students in exploring the role of money in politics.

In three readings, students explore the origins of the movement, its anti-government anger, its alliances, and consider its relationship to what historian Richard Hofstadter called 'The Paranoid Style in American Politics.' Discussion questions and subjects for inquiry and writing follow.

A student quiz, reading and discussion explore the court's role in interpreting the Constitution and its recent decision to lift limits on corporate & union election ad spending.

Through two readings and class discussion, students think critically about the effect of corporate campaign donations on our political system and consider efforts to reform campaign finance.

This 20-page PDF booklet includes lively classroom activities to get students thinking, learning and talking. Grades K-1, grades 2-5, grades 4-8, and grades 6-12.

Language used at some McCain/Palin rallies has raised questions about racial bias in the 2008 presidential election. A student reading is followed by discussion questions and a student activity.

A student reading provides brief samples of the opposing views of Senators McCain and Obama on five major issues--the economy, Iraq, healthcare, schools and energy--and is followed by suggestions for student inquiry and a class exercise.