How to Create a Mock Election in American History Class

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Election of 1876 Electoral Map

An American history teacher can create a mock election for their class to teach students about the electoral process by following these steps:

1. Create a list of candidates: The teacher should select a list of candidates for the mock election. These candidates can be historical figures, fictional characters, or current political figures. The teacher should also assign each candidate a political party.
2. Divide the class into states: The teacher should divide the class into states, with each state representing a different number of electoral votes. For example, a class of 30 students could be divided into 10 states, each with 3 electoral votes.
3. Have the students vote: The students should cast their votes for their preferred candidate. The teacher should make sure to explain that in the real election, citizens vote for electors who then cast their vote for the candidate at the electoral college.
4. Count the electoral votes: The teacher should tally up the electoral votes for each candidate and announce the winner of the mock election. The winner should be the candidate with the most electoral votes, not the candidate with the most popular votes.
5. Debrief the class: After the mock election, the teacher should debrief the class on the results. They should explain how the electoral college works and how it differs from the popular vote. The teacher should also discuss any challenges or issues that came up during the mock election and how they might be addressed in a real election.
6. Additional activities: The teacher can also incorporate additional activities to the class such as debates, campaign ads, speeches, and even a simulation of the electoral college process.

By creating a mock election, the teacher can give students a hands-on understanding of the electoral process. This can help students better understand the role of the electoral college in American politics and the importance of each state’s electoral votes. Additionally, this can also help students to appreciate the complexity of American politics and the importance of civic engagement.

Looking for engaging resources? Check out the American History Full Year Curriculum bundle from Lessons in Humanities.