Activity Overview
Introducing students to new terminology at the beginning of a history unit will help them better understand what they're learning about. In this activity, students will create a spider map that illustrates and defines key terms of the election process. Students should be encouraged to select words they are more unfamiliar with, as this will help them expand their understand.
In an extension activity, teachers can display just the illustrations that students have created to the class, and have students guess which term it is. Students would be able to show off their creativity to their peers while being engaged in a challenging review activity to reinforce the main concepts from this unit.
Elections Key Terms
- Candidate
- Party
- Election
- Vote
- Ballot
- Electoral College
- Popular Vote
- Incumbent
- Primary
- Inauguration
- Nomination
- President
- Political Party
- Constitution
- Debate
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that defines key terms for the election process.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title, type in the term.
- In the description, type the definition as it relates to the U.S. Election.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
Requirements:
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
Activity Overview
Introducing students to new terminology at the beginning of a history unit will help them better understand what they're learning about. In this activity, students will create a spider map that illustrates and defines key terms of the election process. Students should be encouraged to select words they are more unfamiliar with, as this will help them expand their understand.
In an extension activity, teachers can display just the illustrations that students have created to the class, and have students guess which term it is. Students would be able to show off their creativity to their peers while being engaged in a challenging review activity to reinforce the main concepts from this unit.
Elections Key Terms
- Candidate
- Party
- Election
- Vote
- Ballot
- Electoral College
- Popular Vote
- Incumbent
- Primary
- Inauguration
- Nomination
- President
- Political Party
- Constitution
- Debate
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Due Date:
Objective: Create a spider map that defines key terms for the election process.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title, type in the term.
- In the description, type the definition as it relates to the U.S. Election.
- Create an illustration using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
Requirements:
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Definition | The definition is correct. | The definition is partially correct. | The definition is incorrect. |
| Visualizations | The storyboard cells clearly illustrate the meaning of the vocabulary words. | The storyboard cells relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words, but are difficult to understand. | The storyboard cells do not clearly relate to the meaning of the vocabulary words. |
How Tos about U.S. Elections Vocabulary
Plan a Vocabulary Election Game to Reinforce Key Terms
Organize a fun, interactive vocabulary game where students 'campaign' for their favorite election term. This helps reinforce understanding and builds enthusiasm for learning.
Divide students into small groups
Assign students to teams of 3–4. Working in groups encourages collaboration and allows for diverse ideas during the activity.
Assign each group a set of election vocabulary terms
Give each group 2–3 terms from the election vocabulary list. This ensures all key terms are covered and students become 'experts' on their assigned words.
Have groups create campaign posters for their terms
Ask students to design creative posters that define and illustrate each term. Encourage the use of bold visuals and simple explanations for maximum impact.
Host a class 'election' to vote for the best poster and explanation
Display all posters, then allow students to present their term and campaign for votes. Students vote for the clearest, most creative poster—just like a real election!
Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Elections Vocabulary
What is a spider map and how can it help students learn U.S. election vocabulary?
A spider map is a visual organizer that helps students connect and define key terms by creating branches from a central concept. Using spider maps for U.S. election vocabulary allows students to visually organize terms, definitions, and illustrations, making it easier to remember and understand complex election-related concepts.
How can teachers use visual vocabulary boards to teach election terms in high school?
Visual vocabulary boards encourage students to define and illustrate key election terms, helping them engage creatively and reinforce understanding. Teachers can assign students to create these boards individually or in groups, then use class discussions or guessing games to review terms and deepen learning.
What are some effective ways to introduce unfamiliar election terms to students?
Effective strategies include starting units with hands-on activities like spider maps, allowing students to choose unfamiliar terms, using illustrations, and incorporating peer-led games or discussions. These methods promote active learning and help students master election vocabulary.
Why is it important for students to learn U.S. elections vocabulary in history classes?
Understanding U.S. elections vocabulary is crucial for students to grasp the election process, participate in informed discussions, and develop civic literacy. It helps them connect historical events to current practices and become more engaged citizens.
What are some key terms students should know when studying U.S. elections?
Important U.S. election terms include candidate, ballot, Electoral College, popular vote, incumbent, primary, inauguration, nomination, debate, political party, and constitution. Learning these terms builds a solid foundation for understanding how elections work.
More Storyboard That Activities
US Elections
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