Lesson Plan

Winner-Take-All: The Two-Party System

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This Winner-Take-All: The Two-Party System lesson plan also includes:

Two's company, three's a crowd. High school historians learn about the Electoral College, a two-party, winner-take-all voting system in the United States. The activity explains the pros and cons of the two-party system, roadblocks for third parties, and how the Electrical College perpetuates the winner-take-all cycle. Scholars work in small groups to create a party platform and share it with the the class. Academics also participate in group discussion and short written prompts. 

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CCSS: Designed
Instructional Ideas
  • Divide the class into two groups, have them create their own political parties to participate in a mock election
  • Compare the US two-party system to other world governments 
Classroom Considerations
  • May require an overview of the two main political parties 
Pros
  • The hands-on-activity engages pupils and enhances learning 
  • Resource is adaptable for multiple grade levels 
Cons
  • None