Activity Overview
When teaching students about elections, it is important to include information on the different political parties that dominate our system. Students should learn that there are two main parties in the United States: the Republicans and the Democrats. Congressional and Presidential elections are historically won by a member of one of these parties. While the United States is considered a two-party system, there are minor parties as well. The most well known minor parties that can be seen on an election ballot are the Green Party and the Libertarian Party.
After studying about the different parties, students will demonstrate their knowledge by creating a 4 cell storyboard that describes the core values of each party.
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 4 cell storyboard that describes and illustrates the major and minor political parties.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify two major and two minor parties.
- In the description boxes, list 3-4 core beliefs of each party.
- Create an illustration for each description using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
Requirements:
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 10 Points | Emerging 6 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Parties in the United States | Student can identify the two major parties in the United States as well as two minor parties. | Student can identify the two major parties in the United States. | Students can identify one political party in the United States. |
| Core Values of each Political Party | Student can explain 3-4 core values for each political party identified. | Student can explain 2 core values for each political party identified. | Student can explain 0-1 core value for each political party identified. |
Activity Overview
When teaching students about elections, it is important to include information on the different political parties that dominate our system. Students should learn that there are two main parties in the United States: the Republicans and the Democrats. Congressional and Presidential elections are historically won by a member of one of these parties. While the United States is considered a two-party system, there are minor parties as well. The most well known minor parties that can be seen on an election ballot are the Green Party and the Libertarian Party.
After studying about the different parties, students will demonstrate their knowledge by creating a 4 cell storyboard that describes the core values of each party.
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 4 cell storyboard that describes and illustrates the major and minor political parties.
Student Instructions:
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, identify two major and two minor parties.
- In the description boxes, list 3-4 core beliefs of each party.
- Create an illustration for each description using appropriate scenes, items, and characters.
Requirements:
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient 10 Points | Emerging 6 Points | Beginning 1 Points | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Political Parties in the United States | Student can identify the two major parties in the United States as well as two minor parties. | Student can identify the two major parties in the United States. | Students can identify one political party in the United States. |
| Core Values of each Political Party | Student can explain 3-4 core values for each political party identified. | Student can explain 2 core values for each political party identified. | Student can explain 0-1 core value for each political party identified. |
How Tos about Different Political Parties in the U.S.
Introduce a Classroom Debate on Political Parties
Engage students by organizing a structured debate where they represent different political parties. This encourages critical thinking and lets students practice respectful discussion of diverse viewpoints.
Assign Students to Party Roles
Assign each student or group a political party to research and represent. This gives everyone a voice and ensures active participation from the entire class.
Guide Research on Party Platforms
Support students as they use age-appropriate sources to gather facts about their assigned party’s beliefs and values. This builds research skills and deepens understanding.
Set Clear Debate Rules and Format
Establish simple rules for respectful turn-taking and time limits. This creates a safe environment where all opinions are valued and heard.
Facilitate and Reflect on the Debate
Moderate the discussion, encourage students to support their arguments with facts, and lead a brief reflection on what was learned. This reinforces key concepts and helps students practice civil discourse.
Frequently Asked Questions about Different Political Parties in the U.S.
What are the two main political parties in the United States?
The two main political parties in the United States are the Democratic Party and the Republican Party. These parties dominate most national and state elections.
How can I explain the differences between major and minor political parties to elementary students?
Explain that major parties (Democrats and Republicans) win most elections and have more members, while minor parties (like the Green Party and Libertarian Party) have fewer members but offer different ideas and sometimes appear on ballots.
What is a simple classroom activity to help students learn about U.S. political parties?
Have students create a 4-cell storyboard showing two major and two minor parties. In each cell, list core beliefs and add illustrations to make learning visual and engaging.
Which minor political parties are most commonly seen on U.S. election ballots?
The most commonly seen minor political parties on U.S. ballots are the Green Party and the Libertarian Party.
Why is it important for students to learn about both major and minor political parties?
Learning about both major and minor political parties helps students understand different viewpoints and the range of choices available in U.S. elections, fostering critical thinking about democracy.
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