Young scholars identify political parties, then read a news article about the 2008 election. In this current events instructional activity (written prior to the 2008 election), the teacher introduces the article with a discussion and...

Students consider the historic implications of Barack Obama's election. In this election of 2008 instructional activity, students research Obama's accomplishments and determine how his election signifies the success of the American Civil...

Learners research the presidential candidates of 2008. In this election lesson, students research both candidates and identify where they stand on major issues. Learners choose a presidential candidate.

Campaign propaganda has evolved from 1952 through the presidential election of 2008. A social studies activity prompts class members to analyze the devices used in ads and political cartoons, noting strategies they believe would work to...

Students read and discuss article, "We Agreed to Agree, and Forgot to Notice," participate in anonymous mock presidential primary ballot, and share reactions to Iowa caucus results. Students then collect statements made by candidates on...

The battle over same-sex marriage is a prevalent issue in the United States, and a valuable topic to be discussed in your social studies classroom. Here is a basic outline of introductory questions, focus questions, vocabulary, and media...

Eighth graders explore where they personally stand on a post-election continuum, spanning from euphoria to despair.  In this American History lesson, 8th graders read and discuss an article immediately following the election and a...

In this voting worksheet, young scholars identify and discuss changes in voting rights throughout American history. Then, they identify why voting is an important right for Americans. Finally, students create voting bookmarks instead of...

Students interpret historical evidence presented in primary and secondary resources. In this political systems lesson, students conduct research to compare and contrast the forms of government in the United States and...

Students research categories within President Obama's agenda and create a PowerPoint presentation. In this President Obama agenda instructional activity, students research a category within President Obama's agenda and present their...

Students read a story called Mayor Puts City on Diet to Lose a Million Pounds and answer vocabulary and comprehension questions about it. In this current event Lose a Million Pounds lesson plan, students respond to literature by...