Introduction to Vote: The Machinery of Democracy

Learning Resource Type

Classroom Resource

Subject Area

Social Studies

Grade(s)

12

Overview

This informational site focuses on the history of the various methods of voting including paper ballot, machine ballot, and electronic voting systems used today. Students explore the range of voting technologies using the online exhibition from the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History.

Social Studies (2010) Grade(s): 12 - United States Government

SS10.USG.7

Describe the process of local, state, and national elections, including the organization, role, and constituency of political parties. (Alabama)

UP:SS10.USG.7

Vocabulary

  • primary
  • gerrymandering
  • Electoral College
  • soft money
  • hard money
  • reapportionment
  • redistricting
  • "Get Out the Vote"
  • gubernatorial
  • caucus
  • party convention
  • political party
  • census
  • public financing

Knowledge

Students know:
  • The process by which elections are carried out in state, local, and national elections.
  • The process by which state legislatures create and adjust congressional districts.
  • The major rules and regulations surrounding how candidates receive and spend campaign funds.
  • The methods and goals of political parties in appealing to various populations as a means of ensuring voter turnout.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Organize components of the election process into chronological order, including primary elections.
  • Analyze state maps to assess the impact of redistricting.
  • Analyze tables, graphs, and charts to assess voter turnout and impact of.
  • Compare historical maps of state district lines and Electoral College outcomes to identify differences and shifts over time.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • The election process differs amongst office and level of government as well as how campaign spending, political parties, voter turnout, and redistricting can influence the outcome.

CR Resource Type

Informational Material

Resource Provider

Smithsonian

License Type

Custom
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