Lesson 13: The United States electoral and representational system UNIT 3: CITIZENSHIP, PARTICIPATION & THE ELECTORAL PROCESS

 SWBAT describe the United States electoral and representational system and assess how it promotes republicanism and federalism. LESSON OBJECTIVE

 Representation  A statement or action expressing disapproval of or objection to something.  Representation in America  What is the electoral college?  How does America’s system of representation ensure that every citizen has a say on the running of the country?  Discussion  Do you believe America’s electoral system is a fair representation of our wishes and desires? WORD OF THE DAY/INITIAL ACTIVITY

 Basic mechanics of electoral system  Single-member districts  Winner-take-all elections  Electoral college REPRESENTATIONAL SYSTEM

 Voting and not voting  Joining a political organization  Contributing money  Volunteering for a political campaign ELECTORAL ISSUES & CONCERNS

Thomas E. Mann, On the Electoral College  “Presidents are elected not by direct popular vote but by 538 members of the Electoral College.”  What is Thomas E. Mann implying here?  1 minute to write down a response to this question:  Does the primacy of the electoral college over the popular vote in elections pervert the idea of America being a republic?  Turn & Talk: 30 seconds per partner  Share Out MAJOR PURPOSES OF GOVERNMENT: TURN & TALK

 Focus Question: How does the electoral college encourage candidates to pander to all 50 states during elections?  Read A Vote in South Dakota should Matter as Much as One in Florida  How does the author argue against the electoral college?  How does the author suggest to fix the electoral system in America?  Read The Electoral College Ensures All Voices are Heard  How does the electoral college represent democracy and federalism simultaenously?  How does the author argue in favor of the electoral college?  Share Out ACTIVITY: OPINION

 Exit Ticket  Considering today’s activity and mini-lesson, do you believe that the electoral college system is a fair representation of America’s political wishes?  Discussion  How might the electoral college system create a more difficult political environment for candidates than a direct representation system?  Parking Lot  Develop one critical thinking question from today’s mini-lesson or activity.  Write onto post-it and place onto parking lot. You will address these questions as a class during the initial-activity each following day. SUMMARY