Social Studies 11/6 Voting and 11/13 What does a President Look Like Mr. Flannery

8th gradeSocial Studies Agenda

Name:                                        Date:

Period:

Do Now:  Do you think kids should be able to vote in Presidential Elections? Why/Why not? Explain in 2-3 sentences.

Objective: Students will be able to analyze voting through answering guided questions

Activity 1: Read the article and answer the questions below:

Democracies Need Voters 

Ask anyone what it means to live in a democracy, and you’re likely to hear something about voting. While there’s more to a democracy than voting, the citizens’ right to determine their own government is a basic democratic concept. But here’s the thing: It’s not really “the citizens” who choose our leaders. It’s the people who show up at the polls on election day. So yes, your vote may be just one in millions—but if you don’t use it, you’re letting all those other people decide how you’re going to be governed. You may not be old enough to vote yet, but it probably won’t be long. When that day comes, will you know what to do? 

You don’t magically become a voter. You have to register first. Each state has its own set of requirements, but all require at least three things: you must be a citizen of the United States, you must be 18 years old by election day, and you must live in the state where you will be voting. Most states offer easy ways to register, like online registration or the option to register when you renew your driver’s license. And here’s some even better news: In many states, you don’t have to wait ‘til you’re 18 to register to vote! In these states, you can preregister before you’re 18 so that when you do turn 18, you won’t even have to think about registering because it will already be done. (Unless you move out of state before the next election. In that case, you’ll have to register in your new state.) Ready, set, vote! 

1. Who really chooses the leaders in a democracy?

2. Why is it important that you vote?

3. What do you first have to do to vote?

4. What are three things all states require of someone to vote?

5. What are some easy ways to register?

6. What does preregister mean?

Activity 2: Research online to answer the questions below:

1. When is the general election in NJ?

2. When is the registration deadline in NJ?

3. What is your city voting for this year?

Activity 3: Answer the following question in one paragraph. Do you think it is important that people vote? Why/Why not?