civics real, relevant, and happening right now lindsay pryor elections division...
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CIVICSREAL, RELEVANT, and happening RIGHT NOW
Lindsay PryorElections [email protected](360) 902-4143
Civics CBA: as easy as ABC
Beginning with the 2008-09 school year, school districts will require students in grades 4 or 5, 7 or 8, and 11 or 12 to each complete at least one CBA in civics.
1. Checks & Balances
2. Constitutional Issues
There is a GAP between civics education
and civic participation.
Voter turnout in Washington State
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
2000 2004
18-24
25+
Three tools to bridge the gap:
1. Election topics for discussion
2. Classroom activities
3. Civics outside the classroom
Civics “Value Menu”
Discussion
Explore the issues
Activity
Make it “real”
CBA
Tie it in with:
Checks & Balances
Constitutional Issues
What do young people think about
voting and elections?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NjHizy9vRik
Clip from “18 in 08” by David Burstein
www.18in08.com
Classroom Discussions
What to do:
1. Make it “real”
2. Make it relevant
3. Make it regular
4. Make it fair
5. Make it count
Classroom Discussions
What NOT to do:
1. Don’t allow personal attacks
2. Don’t debate beliefs or opinions
3. Don’t favor candidates or issues
4. Don’t join in the conversation
Classroom Activities
1. Schedule “mock” events to coincide with “real” events
2. Assign tasks that impact the community
3. Have fun, be creative
4. Talk to experienced election-ers
5. Make it a CBA!
Common Steps for a CBA
1. Essential Question
2. Key Concepts and Vocabulary
3. Inquiry (research)
4. Group process and discussion
5. Position (writing)
6. Presentation
Goals to “bridge the gap”
Ask, “does this help my students understand…?”
1. Voting’s positive influence
2. How their voices can be heard
3. Where to get the facts
4. How to make an intelligent decision
5. The voter registration process
6. The elections process
Brainstorm
Comments? Questions?
• What’s worked well for you?
• Sign up for reminders about upcoming events and free classroom materials
Beyond the Classroom
Programs for kids of all ages are available through state, local and non-profit agencies
Programs for teachers are also available!
Online
Civics CBA: as easy as ABC
Sample of a Constitutional Issues CBA