The Electoral College is a confusing concept for students to understand. From how it was formed to how it plays a part in elections, students will complete a 5 Ws analysis of the Electoral College, answering the questions Who, What, When, Where, and Why. Their answers should be researched, and this activity is a great way for students to review what they already have learned.
Possible Questions
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Due Date:
Objective: Create a 5W analysis of the Electoral College: Who, What, When, Where, and Why.
Student Instructions:
Requirements:
Engage students in a lively debate about the Electoral College to deepen understanding and critical thinking. Debates help students consider multiple viewpoints and practice respectful discourse.
Establish guidelines for respectful discussion and assign students to pro, con, and moderator roles. Clear expectations keep the debate focused and fair.
Allow students time to gather facts supporting their assigned position. Encouraging research builds confidence and ensures informed participation.
Organize the debate into opening statements, rebuttals, and closing arguments with specific time limits. Structured rounds keep the activity organized and engaging.
Lead a class discussion to reflect on key points, student experiences, and new understandings. Reflection helps solidify learning and encourages respectful dialogue.
The main role of the U.S. Electoral College is to formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States. Each state has a set number of electors, and a candidate must win a majority to become President.
Members of the Electoral College are called electors. They are typically chosen by political parties in each state, often as party loyalists or community leaders, and are appointed based on the state's popular vote in the presidential election.
The Electoral College was chosen by the Founding Fathers to balance power between large and small states and to prevent direct election by popular vote, hoping to ensure broad national support and avoid regional dominance.
Problems include the possibility of a candidate winning without the popular vote and unequal influence among states. Benefits are that it encourages candidates to campaign nationwide and protects the influence of smaller states.
The Electoral College has been controversial in elections where the winner lost the popular vote, like in 2000 and 2016. It has also faced challenges and debates over fairness and calls for reform throughout U.S. history.