As the National Convention approaches, students will learn more about the presidential election process to grasp the significance of this historic event. Understanding how leaders are nominated, the role of political parties, and the Electoral College empowers learners to be informed citizens and provides a solid foundation for comprehending ongoing political events. 


*** This is a flexible schedule class, which means that there will be no live meetings. Instead, students may work at their own pace to complete the activities including watching short video lessons, annotating short texts, completing weekly graphic organizers /Take Away Notes, and weekly Kahoot or Blooket games to reinforce learning.

Each week I will post discussion questions for students to interact with me, a video to watch, as well as a short, student-friendly lesson to read and annotate (using the teacher's example / answer key as a guide.)

NOTE:  Using the teacher's example to record notes or annotate a text, enhances students' learning experience. It equips them with valuable skills for active reading, critical thinking,  efficient note-taking,  and ultimately leading to improved comprehension and academic success.

* Annotating requires active engagement with the material.

*  By observing how I annotate a lesson, students can learn effective techniques for highlighting important information, identifying key concepts, and making relevant notes.

* While following my example, students eventually develop their unique annotation style that suits their learning preferences. This personalization helps them retain information more effectively.

* Learning and practicing annotations can boost students' confidence, reassuring them that they are on the right track in their learning journey. 


Week 1
Roles of the President
Students should learn about the roles of the president to understand how their country's government works. Knowing the president's responsibilities as a leader, commander-in-chief, diplomat, and more helps students become informed citizens who can engage in the democratic process.

Week 2
Process of Becoming President
Learning about the process of becoming president gives students insight into how leaders are chosen in their country. It promotes civic awareness and encourages them to participate in elections and make informed choices when they become eligible voters.

Week 3
Primary and General Elections:  What’s the difference?
Understanding the difference between primary and general elections is crucial for students to grasp how candidates are selected and how the final winner is determined. It helps them see how political parties and the voting process work together to choose leaders.

Week 4
What is the Electoral College?
Learning about the Electoral College is essential for students to comprehend how the president is officially elected in their country. It clarifies the role of electors and the significance of state-by-state voting in presidential elections.

Week 5
Campaign Finance
Understanding campaign finance is vital for students to recognize how money can impact politics and elections. It encourages transparency, ethics, and critical thinking, empowering students to be engaged citizens who can make informed decisions based on financial data in politics.

Week 6
Factors voters consider during presidential elections
learning about the factors that influence voters during presidential elections is not only essential for active citizenship but also empowers students to be critical thinkers and engaged members of a democratic society.

Week 7
What is the National Convention?
Learning about the National Convention helps students understand how the political process works in the United States and reinforces democratic values, such as the right to free speech and open debates.  The National Convention showcases each party's platform and ideologies. Students can gain insights into different political perspectives, fostering critical thinking and encouraging them to consider various viewpoints.

BONUS LESSON:  Guiding Principles of the U.S. Government
*Popular Sovereignty
*Limited Government
*Separation of Powers
*Checks and Balances
*Federalism
The principles of the U.S. Government are evident in various aspects of life in the United States. For instance, during elections, citizens vote, highlighting the principle of popular sovereignty, where the people hold ultimate government power. Similarly, activities like getting a driver's license, getting married, or attending schools demonstrate federalism, as these powers are given to state governments rather than the federal government.