Lesson Plan

Show Me Your Credentials: Voting In America

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

The debate over voting rights continues. To begin their study of voting rights, class members first vote on proposed new classroom rules. After a discussion of the activity, groups are given a copy of the 1965 Alabama Literacy Test and attempt to answer the questions. Finally, scholars investigate the amendments related to voting rights and the voting legislation in their state.

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Instructional Ideas
  • Consider dividing the lesson into three sessions: first, review the amendments; then vote on, discuss class rules and the literacy test; and finally, examine attempts to limit voting rights today
  • Have groups investigate current nationwide attempts to limit as well as expand voting rights like the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act
Classroom Considerations
  • Presumes pupils have prior knowledge of the First, Thirteenth, Fourteenth, and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution
  • A protocol must be in place to assure a safe, respectful discussion of controversial issues
  • Requires copies for each participant of the 1965 Alabama Literacy Test
Pros
  • The lesson provides the background learners need to understand the complexity of voter registration and voting rights challenges
Cons
  • None