Teachers who were unable to attend the September 27, 2016 workshop at Rutgers University may access the materials here:
PBS Midterm Elections 2018 provides interactive maps and links with information on the crucial races that will decide which party will control Congress.
Active and informed citizenship begins in the elementary classroom, and multiple resources exist to assist elementary and middle school teachers. The links below are not a complete list, but rather a starting point for teachers researching lesson plans and materials for their students. It is suggested that prior to any instruction about government, candidates, or the issues, teachers help students identify American ideals based on our nation’s founding documents and symbols. Adherence to these ideals can help establish a civil climate for any subsequent class discussions.
The Center for Civic Education is a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to “promote an enlightened and responsible citizenry committed to democratic principles and actively engaged in the practice of democracy in the United States and other countries.”
The Center for Civic Education has posted a link to their Foundations of Democracy program, which offers a lesson on “How We Should Choose People for Positions of Authority.”
It has been adapted for Upper elementary, Middle school, and High School students.
They also have lessons available by grade on how to be Citizens, not Spectators.
Finally, they have sample lessons on New Jersey’s history and politics.
Constitutional Rights Foundation (CRF) mission is to:
The CRF has a lot of election-related material, which can be accessed here.
For those who subscribe to the idea “It’s the economy, stupid!”, check out these Council for Economic Education Election Links.
The Eagleton Institute of Politics explores state and national politics through research, education, and public service, linking the study of politics with its day-to-day practice. The Institute focuses attention on how the American political system works, how it changes, and how it might work better.
iCivics exists to engage students in meaningful civic learning. They provide civics teachers well-written, inventive, and free resources that enhance their practice and inspire their classrooms. iCivics’ mission is to ensure every student receives a high-quality civic education, and becomes engaged in – and beyond – the classroom.
Vote Smart’s mission is to provide free, factual, unbiased information on candidates and elected officials to ALL Americans. Take a look at their home page.
Gilder Lehrman Institute For American History Electoral College, Grades 10-12.
The Choices Program lesson focuses on the role of values in an election.
The National Archives have several resources covering elections: