Teaching Kids About Election Day and Voting in Upper Elementary

Teaching Kids About Election Day and Voting in Upper Elementary

By: Jacqueline Ortiz, Updated September 5, 2024

Teaching the presidential election in upper elementary classrooms is both exciting and rewarding. I vividly remember participating in a mock election in 2nd grade and the thrill of being part of something so significant. As an educator for upper elementary students, I see that students in 3rd to 5th grade are eager to learn and beginning to shape their own views. That’s why it’s so important to teach about Election Day and Voting in Upper Elementary in a way that is both informative and engaging, while remaining non-biased.

Today I will share some ideas and activities that will help you teach about the election in a neutral and non-biased way.

Start with ELECTION DAY and VOTInG BOOKS:

I like to begin by explaining the purpose of a presidential election. Discuss the role of the President in the government, what the election process looks like, and why it is essential in a democracy. This foundational knowledge is crucial before diving into the details. Also, share informational text books on the candidates to build a background on the candidates.

Books to Introduce the Election (click the links):

• “If I Ran for President” by Catherine Stier
• “Grace for President“ by Kelly DiPucchio
• “Duck for President” by Doreen Cronin

These books are excellent for introducing the election process in a fun and accessible way.

USE NON- BIASED ENGAGING RESOURCES TO BUILD EXCITEMENT

I enjoy using engaging resources that will help students understand the election process. Help your learners grow with this Presidential Election Bundle! It includes reading passages, writing activities, and a bulletin board display. All activities are designed in a non-biased, kid-friendly format.

Take a look at each set included in this money-saving bundle

• Reading Passages: Grow your reader’s knowledge with this Voting and Presidential Election passages. These passages are designed to engage your students with test-like questions and boost their comprehension skills to the next level. With this essential tool, you can confidently guide your students toward success. 6 Passages Included: Electoral Process, Presidential Election Passages are focused on the following: The Democratic party, the Republican party, Running for President, Presidential Elections, and Voting.
• Election Day Research and Writing Pennants: You’ll love these Presidential Election Activities! The Election Research Writing Teach-Go Pennants® Bulletin Board Idea offers a quick and engaging way to teach your students about the upcoming presidential election.
• Election Day Pennants and Flip Book: Your kids will love imagining “If I Were President.” I used this the day after election so my students to could reflect on the responsibilities and goals of being the new president.
• Presidential Inauguration Day Writing Activities: You will enjoy using this Presidential Inauguration Day Activities perfect for use during the election season. Celebrate this important day with a beautiful flip book, pennants and inspirational Presidential Quote Posters perfect for bulletin board displays.

Create a Classroom Mock Election

A mock election is a great hands-on activity that helps students understand the election process. You can have students nominate candidates (real or fictional), create campaign posters, and hold a vote. This activity teaches the importance of voting, how elections are conducted, and the concept of majority rule.

To ensure neutrality, consider using candidates like historical figures, book characters, or made-up figures rather than real political candidates. This way, the focus remains on the process rather than political affiliations.

Here is an easy way to run it:

1. Divide the class into small groups, each representing a candidate.
2. Have each group create a campaign speech and poster.
3. Conduct debates where groups present why their candidate should win.
4. Hold a secret ballot vote.
5. Count the votes and announce the winner.

Electoral College Map Activity

Introduce the concept of the Electoral College in a simplified manner. Provide students with a blank U.S. map and have them color in states based on electoral votes after a mock election. This activity helps students understand how the Electoral College works and its significance in determining the outcome of a presidential election.

Activity Extension: Discuss the difference between the popular vote and the electoral vote. Use scenarios where the popular vote winner is not the electoral vote winner to spark discussions about the pros and cons of the Electoral College. Make sure to grab the freebie below with one to use!

Research and Report on Past Presidents

Assign each student a different U.S. President to research. They can create a mini-report or presentation that includes key facts about the President’s life, their time in office, and significant accomplishments. This activity helps students understand the diversity of leadership and the impact of different Presidents on the country.

President Research Teach-Go Pennants:

• This is my favorite activity to use with my students to research past and current United States Presidents.

Civic Responsibility and Citizenship

Use the election as a springboard to discuss civic responsibility and what it means to be an active citizen. Engage students in activities that emphasize the importance of staying informed, participating in community service, and understanding the rights and responsibilities of citizens.

Take a look at these books to help teach these lessons:

• “We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States” by David Catrow
• “What Does It Mean to Be an American?” by Rana DiOrio and Elad Yoran

Debate Topics and Critical Thinking

Hold classroom debates on age-appropriate, non-political issues (like school uniforms, homework policies, etc.) to develop critical thinking and debate skills. This teaches students how to listen to different viewpoints, articulate their opinions respectfully, and consider multiple perspectives.

Debate Guidelines:

• Ensure that students understand the importance of being respectful during these debates.
• Allow time for students to research and prepare their arguments.
• Include time for rebuttals and closing statements.

Interactive Games and Online Resources

Use interactive games and online resources to make learning about elections fun and engaging. Websites like iCivics offer a range of free educational games that teach students about the election process, government, and civics in an interactive way.

Take a peek at a few sites

• Check out games like “Win the White House” where students can run their own campaign.
• Scholastic’s Election Central: Provides videos, articles, and activities related to elections.

DON’T MISS these EXCLUSIVE election Day & Voting freebies

You can use these freebies anytime you are studying and learning about the election. You will find a poem for you to have students read and analyze during election time, with answer key and, an electoral map for students to use during the election! Enjoy this freebie perfect for 3rd-5th graders!

When teaching about the presidential election, it’s essential to create an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their ideas. By focusing on the process, history, and significance of elections rather than the politics, you can help your students become informed, thoughtful citizens without introducing bias.

Remember, the goal is to empower students with knowledge and critical thinking skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

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