Activity Overview
Have students create a character map to identify, and examine each candidate that participated in the election of 1800. Students will be able to identify and explain who each candidate was, including their party affiliation, history, and how they fared in the election. Students will build off of these basic characterizations to explore more in-depth content later on.
Candidates of the Election of 1800
Extended Activity
Have students create a character map of another presidential election. Students should include the same topics, including party affiliation, ideas, etc. This will allow students and teachers alike to compare with the election of 1800, and demonstrate its particular significance. And if students want to go more in depth on a particular candidate, they can make biography posters!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies each candidate in the Election of 1800 and their ideologies.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, enter the name of the candidate.
- Choose a character to represent each candidate.
- In each section, identify their political affiliation, background, and results of the election.
- Add any additional scenes or items.
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
Have students create a character map to identify, and examine each candidate that participated in the election of 1800. Students will be able to identify and explain who each candidate was, including their party affiliation, history, and how they fared in the election. Students will build off of these basic characterizations to explore more in-depth content later on.
Candidates of the Election of 1800
Extended Activity
Have students create a character map of another presidential election. Students should include the same topics, including party affiliation, ideas, etc. This will allow students and teachers alike to compare with the election of 1800, and demonstrate its particular significance. And if students want to go more in depth on a particular candidate, they can make biography posters!
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that identifies each candidate in the Election of 1800 and their ideologies.
- Click "Start Assignment".
- In the title boxes, enter the name of the candidate.
- Choose a character to represent each candidate.
- In each section, identify their political affiliation, background, and results of the election.
- Add any additional scenes or items.
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Candidates of the Election of 1800
How to Facilitate a Classroom Debate on the Election of 1800
Engage students actively by turning historical analysis into a lively debate. Debates encourage critical thinking and help students practice articulating different perspectives from the election era.
Assign roles for each candidate and prepare background notes
Assign each student or group a candidate from the Election of 1800. Provide background info—party, beliefs, key issues—to help them accurately represent their figure in the debate.
Develop debate questions that highlight key issues
Craft questions focusing on major topics like states’ rights, foreign policy, or leadership style. Prompt students to think from their candidate’s perspective, deepening understanding of political ideologies.
Set clear debate rules and structure speaking turns
Outline expectations for respectful discourse. Structure the debate with opening statements, rebuttals, and closing remarks so all voices are heard. Consistent routines make students feel confident and safe.
Reflect on the debate and connect to present-day politics
Lead a class discussion after the debate. Encourage students to compare historical issues with modern elections and reflect on the skills they practiced. This deepens learning and personal connection.
Frequently Asked Questions about Candidates of the Election of 1800
What is a character map activity for the Election of 1800?
A character map activity for the Election of 1800 helps students identify each candidate, their party affiliation, background, and how they performed in the election. It encourages analysis and comparison among key figures like Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and others.
How do I teach students about the candidates in the Election of 1800?
Start by having students research each candidate—including their political party, major beliefs, background, and election results. A visual character map or storyboard can help students organize and present this information clearly.
Who were the main candidates in the Election of 1800?
The main candidates were Thomas Jefferson, Aaron Burr, John Adams, Charles Pinckney, Alexander Hamilton, and John Jay. Each played a unique role and represented different political ideologies of the era.
What are some easy lesson ideas for teaching the Election of 1800?
Try creating character maps, assigning biography posters, or comparing candidates from different elections. These activities foster engagement and deepen understanding of historical context and significance.
Why is the Election of 1800 considered significant in U.S. history?
The Election of 1800 is significant because it marked the first peaceful transfer of power between political parties in the U.S., setting an important democratic precedent and highlighting evolving party dynamics.
More Storyboard That Activities
Election of 1800: Jefferson vs. Adams
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