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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Introduction to Political Parties - Begin with an interactive simulation where students step into the roles of historical figures like Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton. Facilitate a dynamic debate on key issues such as foreign policy and economic strategies, allowing students to experience firsthand the conflicts that led to the formation of political parties. (45 min)
Historical Research on Political Parties - Students conduct research on the historical formation of political parties, focusing on the conflicts between Thomas Jefferson and Alexander Hamilton. They will gather information about their views on foreign policy and the National Bank. (45 min)
Exploring the Law-Making Process - Introduce students to the basic law-making process and the role of political parties in the legislative branch. Discuss the Constitution's provisions for citizen participation in the political process. (45 min)
Analyzing Political Party Evolution - Students analyze the evolution of political parties from their historical roots to contemporary times. They will identify key changes and continuities in party platforms and electoral strategies. (45 min)
Reflection and Peer Feedback - Conduct a reflective session where students share their insights from the week's activities. Facilitate peer feedback on research findings and discuss how perceptions of political strategies have evolved. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Students will complete role-play reflections and submit them for review.
2. Each pair of students will submit a summary of their document analysis, highlighting key conflicts and their significance.
3. Groups will present their initial research findings on a chosen political party to the class.
4. Individual reflection papers addressing the essential question will be turned in for feedback.
Preparation 1. Gather and prepare primary source materials and historical documents related to Jefferson, Hamilton, and the early formation of political parties.
2. Set up a classroom space conducive to role-playing and debates, ensuring students have room to move and interact.
3. Prepare a list of historical and contemporary political parties for students to choose from for their group research.
4. Create guidelines and rubrics for the group research presentations, outlining expectations and key elements to include.
5. Ensure access to digital or library resources for student research on political parties.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Introduction to Mock Political Parties - Guide students in forming their mock political parties, establishing party names, and drafting preliminary platforms based on historical contexts. (45 min)
Research and Platform Development - Students delve into contemporary political issues, conducting research to refine their party platforms. They will gather evidence and arguments to support their positions. (45 min)
Campaign Material Design - Facilitate a workshop where students brainstorm and begin designing campaign posters and flyers, focusing on persuasive language and visual elements to convey their platforms. (45 min)
Role-Playing Debate Preparation - Students prepare for a role-playing debate by developing arguments and counterarguments to present their party's stance on key issues. (45 min)
Role-Playing Debate and Reflection - Conduct the role-playing debate between the newly formed political parties, followed by a reflective session where students discuss their experiences and insights. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Research notes on historical political parties.
2. Draft of mock political party platforms.
3. Completed campaign posters and flyers.
4. Reflection notes and peer feedback summaries.
Preparation 1. Provide access to research resources such as books, articles, and online databases.
2. Prepare guidelines for creating party platforms and campaign materials.
3. Set up a digital platform for students to share and receive feedback on their work.
4. Organize classroom materials for designing posters and flyers, such as art supplies and digital tools.
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Campaign Strategy Workshop - Students collaborate to refine their political party's campaign strategies, focusing on effective communication and persuasive tactics for voter engagement. (45 min)
Speech Development and Practice - Guide students in drafting and practicing speeches that articulate their party platforms and key issues. Emphasize clear communication and impactful delivery. (45 min)
Interactive Booth Design - Facilitate a session where students create interactive elements for their political party fair booths, ensuring engagement and information dissemination to visitors. (45 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Conduct a peer review session where students present their speeches and booth designs to classmates for constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement. (45 min)
Final Revisions and Reflection - Allow time for students to make final revisions to their campaign materials and speeches based on peer feedback. Reflect on the week's progress and prepare for the upcoming exhibition. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed campaign posters and flyers showcasing each group's political party platform.
2. A draft of speeches to be delivered at the Political Party Fair, outlining key points of each party's platform.
3. A reflection journal entry or digital post discussing the process of creating campaign materials and how strategies were chosen to influence voters.
4. Feedback notes from teacher and peer reviews on campaign materials and strategies.
5. A list of interactive activities planned for each booth at the Political Party Fair to engage visitors.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for making campaign posters and flyers, including poster boards, markers, colored pencils, glue, scissors, and printed images or templates.
2. Arrange digital resources for creating campaign materials, such as access to graphic design software or online tools.
3. Prepare a list of historical and contemporary political parties for research reference.
4. Ensure access to computers or tablets with internet connectivity for research and digital creation.
5. Set up a schedule for student check-ins and feedback sessions.
6. Prepare reflection journals or digital platforms for students to document their reflections and feedback.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Final Campaign Material Preparation - Students finalize their campaign posters, flyers, and any additional materials needed for their political party booths, ensuring all elements align with their platform and target audience. (45 min)
Exhibition Booth Setup - Students arrange their exhibition booths, incorporating interactive elements and ensuring all materials are displayed effectively to engage visitors during the fair. (45 min)
Rehearsal for Political Party Fair - Conduct mock presentations at their booths, practicing speeches and interactive activities to prepare for the exhibition. Peer feedback will be provided to make last-minute adjustments. (45 min)
Political Party Fair - Host the fair where students present their political parties to peers, teachers, and community members. Students engage with visitors, presenting their platforms and collecting feedback. (45 min)
Reflection and Feedback Session - Facilitate a reflective discussion where students share their experiences from the fair, discuss the impact of their presentations, and receive feedback to consider for future projects. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed campaign posters and flyers for the mock political parties.
2. Drafted and revised speeches for booth presentations.
3. Interactive activities designed for booth engagement during the Political Party Fair.
4. Written reflections addressing the essential question, project experience, and feedback received.
5. Participation in the Political Party Fair, demonstrating understanding of political strategies and voter influence.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for creating campaign posters and flyers, including markers, poster boards, and printing resources.
2. Prepare templates for speeches and interactive activities for booth presentations.
3. Organize the classroom for the Political Party Fair, ensuring space for booths and seating for visitors.
4. Coordinate with staff and invite guests to attend the Political Party Fair.
5. Provide reflection prompts and guidelines for students to complete their written reflections.