Most people are surprised to learn that American democracy is not as direct as they thought. Using a package of guiding questions, charts and curated videos, learners unpack the unique American institution of the Electoral College. The resource includes a variety of videos with scholars explaining the intention of the Electoral College and its problems. A set of activities, including A and B writing and other forms of persuasive dialogue, help class members articulate their point of view on this Constitutional invention.  

Concepts

the electoral college, the electoral process, the constitution, the electoral vote, presidential elections

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Use some or all the activities to discuss the history and function of the Electoral College
• Create a debate on what should be done about the Electoral College using the extension suggestion or another structured conversation

Classroom Considerations

• Pupils need to be able to view videos 

Pros

• Resource is easy to implement as written or cherry pick as needed
• Activities include scaffolding for vocabulary and note taking

Cons

• None

Common Core

RH.6-8.1 RH.6-8.10 RH.9-10.1 RH.9-10.10 RH.11-12.1 RH.11-12.10