At Innovation Learning Lab, our Critical Thinking class on Voting Rights and The Election Process aims to spark curiosity, foster understanding, and inspire civic responsibility. But why stop there? We believe learning should extend beyond the classroom. Here are some engaging supplemental activities, films, and resources that families can explore at home to deepen their understanding of voting rights and the election process.
1. Film Exploration: History and Power of Voting Rights
Watching films that document the history and struggles for voting rights can help students visualize the ongoing fight for equality and democracy. Here are some must-watch films about voting rights:
“John Lewis: Good Trouble” (2020)
This documentary takes a deep dive into the life of civil rights activist and U.S. Congressman John Lewis. His lifelong dedication to fighting for voting rights, as well as his role in the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, can inspire students to reflect on the personal courage it takes to bring about political change. After watching, challenge students to discuss how the Voting Rights Act has impacted their community.
“Selma” (2014)
"Selma" chronicles the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery marches and sheds light on the efforts of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and others to secure voting rights for African Americans. This film not only educates viewers on historical events but also opens discussions on the continued struggle for equal voting rights in today’s world. Encourage students to identify modern parallels to the voting rights issues presented in the film.
“All In: The Fight for Democracy” (2020)
This documentary focuses on voter suppression in the United States and highlights Stacey Abrams' efforts to combat it. Watching this film can help students understand contemporary issues related to voting rights and inspire critical conversations around policies that affect voter turnout.
2. Interactive Learning: Simulate the Election Process
Family Mock Election
Organize a mock election at home where family members can act as candidates, voters, or even campaign staff. Discuss different voting systems (e.g., first-past-the-post vs. ranked-choice voting) and how they influence election outcomes. This hands-on approach helps students understand the mechanics of elections and why every vote counts.
Voting Rights Timeline Activity
Using a timeline, have students research and add key historical events related to voting rights in the United States, from the 15th Amendment to the 1965 Voting Rights Act and beyond. This helps them contextualize voting rights as an evolving issue, with progress still being made today.
3. Exploring Voter Suppression: The Fight Continues
Research Modern Voter Suppression
After watching documentaries like "All In: The Fight for Democracy," students can research current events or court cases dealing with voter suppression in the U.S. Encourage them to look at issues such as voter ID laws, gerrymandering, and purging voter rolls. They can then present their findings in a discussion or create a poster outlining the importance of protecting voting rights.
Interview a Voter
Students can interview an older family member or friend about their first voting experience. What challenges did they face? What changes have they seen in the election process over the years? This oral history project can foster a personal connection to the importance of voting rights.
4. Field Trips and Real-World Connections
Visit a Local Government Office
Taking a field trip to a local election office or government building can help students see firsthand how elections are organized and ballots are counted. Many election offices also offer educational tours where students can learn about voter registration, how machines tally votes, and what happens to a ballot once it's cast.
Attend a Town Hall or Local Meeting
Encourage students to attend a local government meeting or town hall. Witnessing how decisions are made at the local level can foster a deeper appreciation for the power of civic engagement. Students can observe how their community leaders debate issues, represent their constituents, and pass local laws.
5. Engage in Civic Projects: Be the Change
Voter Registration Drive
Students can take what they’ve learned and organize a voter registration drive in their community (with adult supervision). This real-world project shows them that even at a young age, they can have a direct impact on civic participation by encouraging eligible voters to register.
Create a Voting Rights Awareness Campaign
Students can design an awareness campaign using posters, social media, or a blog to highlight the importance of voting and the barriers some groups face in accessing the ballot. They could focus on topics like reducing voter apathy, combating misinformation, or explaining how to register to vote.
By incorporating these activities and resources, students can deepen their understanding of the democratic process and the crucial role voting plays in our society. From historical perspectives to hands-on learning, these supplemental opportunities provide context, inspire critical thinking, and promote civic responsibility. Together, we can equip the next generation to value and protect their right to vote.
For more film suggestions on this topic, check out PBS Independent Lens: Best Films About Voting Rights.