Five Remote Resources for Teaching Students About Voting
Celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the 19th Amendment
On Tuesday, August 18th, we will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the ratification of the 19th Amendment, which granted women in the United States the right to vote. This momentous day in history was a turning point for the women’s rights movement, and democracy as a whole, and offers a unique opportunity to commemorate the importance of civic rights.
Twenty-twenty is an especially significant year for voters, as the presidential election will take place on November 3. And although only U.S. citizens over the age of 18 can vote, it is never too early to introduce the topic of voting and the election process to students. Whether your classroom is brick-and-mortar, online, at home, or perhaps a blended environment, we have put together several resources to help your learners of all ages explore what it means, and why it’s important, to vote.
Teach the History of the Women’s Suffrage Movement using Primary Sources
Dive first-hand into the past by exploring primary sources. Read diary entries by renowned suffragette Susan B. Anthony, discover newspaper articles from 1920, and review Elizabeth Cady Stanton's “Solitude of Self” speech.
Recreate a Political Debate
Allow your learner to build on their relationship skills by reenacting the historic campaign for women’s voting rights. Teaching Tolerance has outlined an excellent lesson plan for grades 5–12 that can be implemented both in the classroom, and at home.
Learn about the Electoral College & Political Parties
Understanding the electoral college and how presidents are elected can be complicated. This free learning resource from PBS breaks down the process in an engaging, insightful, and straightforward way.
Discover Why Your Vote is So Important
Do you know the power that one single vote can have? Voting is fundamental for a successful democracy and is the most important thing you can do as an American. This video talks about why.
Register to Vote!
Thirty-six percent of eligible 18- to- 24-year-old Americans voted in the 2018 presidential election. This is a step up from the previous midterm election, but there is still room for improvement. The first step is registering to vote. Encourage your eligible students to register (quickly and easily!) using the link below.
