This is the seventh and final lesson about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson requires students to reflect on their personal priorities and their judgment of each candidate before supporting one individual.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
National Civic Summit - Dr. Ruth A. Charles, Josh Malchow, and Eric WahlNational Civic Summit
This document discusses developing students to be public servants through having them serve as election judges. It describes a class project where 75 students served as election judges in 2006 and 2008. The students completed surveys about their experience. Most students had never been election judges before and served outside their own precincts. The document explores what it means to be a non-partisan election judge and addresses misunderstandings about the qualifications for the role.
The Meaning of Selfies: Understanding the use of selfies during the US 2016 P...Henri Ghosn
This report attempts to give a holistic approach to understanding the use of selfies during the US 2016 Primary Elections, taking into account their wider social, cultural, and media contexts. As such this project moves beyond the framing of selfies as a narcissistic practice and highlights instead how they promote “individuality, immediacy, reciprocity, sharing, exchanging, constant updating, work and commitment”.
Guys must see and do the needful. Choose the perfect representative for the nation. This presentation urges you to move out of our homes and go for polling our vote. This presentation further teach us how to choose the correct representative. Hope you guys are gonna like it and surely gonna vote.
The document provides information about a local election for students in grades 6-12 in North Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the various offices and candidates on the ballot, including mayors for Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville, as well as town council and school board candidates. It encourages students to learn about the candidates, their positions, and decide which ones they want to vote for in the election.
Election2011-Middle and High School - S Meck TownsGenerationNation
The document provides information about a Kids Voting election for grades 6-12 in South Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the roles of mayor, town boards, and school boards. It also lists the candidates running for mayor of Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville, as well as candidates for town boards and school board at-large seats. Students are encouraged to learn about the candidates, decide which ones they agree with most based on the information, and vote in the election.
The document provides instructions and materials for a classroom lesson on the US election process. It includes directions for students to write party platforms, participate in a mock primary election, national convention, and general election. It also explains the roles and process for the electoral college in determining the winner. The lesson culminates in the announcement of election winners and an inauguration speech.
The document provides information about a Kids Voting election for grades K-5 in South Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the election process and candidates for mayor of Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville, as well as school board candidates. Students will learn about the candidates and issues, review the information, decide which candidates they support, and vote either at school or online. After the election, they can track whether the winning candidates fulfill their promises.
National Civic Summit - Dr. Ruth A. Charles, Josh Malchow, and Eric WahlNational Civic Summit
This document discusses developing students to be public servants through having them serve as election judges. It describes a class project where 75 students served as election judges in 2006 and 2008. The students completed surveys about their experience. Most students had never been election judges before and served outside their own precincts. The document explores what it means to be a non-partisan election judge and addresses misunderstandings about the qualifications for the role.
The Meaning of Selfies: Understanding the use of selfies during the US 2016 P...Henri Ghosn
This report attempts to give a holistic approach to understanding the use of selfies during the US 2016 Primary Elections, taking into account their wider social, cultural, and media contexts. As such this project moves beyond the framing of selfies as a narcissistic practice and highlights instead how they promote “individuality, immediacy, reciprocity, sharing, exchanging, constant updating, work and commitment”.
Guys must see and do the needful. Choose the perfect representative for the nation. This presentation urges you to move out of our homes and go for polling our vote. This presentation further teach us how to choose the correct representative. Hope you guys are gonna like it and surely gonna vote.
The document provides information about a local election for students in grades 6-12 in North Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the various offices and candidates on the ballot, including mayors for Cornelius, Davidson, and Huntersville, as well as town council and school board candidates. It encourages students to learn about the candidates, their positions, and decide which ones they want to vote for in the election.
Election2011-Middle and High School - S Meck TownsGenerationNation
The document provides information about a Kids Voting election for grades 6-12 in South Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the roles of mayor, town boards, and school boards. It also lists the candidates running for mayor of Matthews, Mint Hill and Pineville, as well as candidates for town boards and school board at-large seats. Students are encouraged to learn about the candidates, decide which ones they agree with most based on the information, and vote in the election.
The document provides instructions and materials for a classroom lesson on the US election process. It includes directions for students to write party platforms, participate in a mock primary election, national convention, and general election. It also explains the roles and process for the electoral college in determining the winner. The lesson culminates in the announcement of election winners and an inauguration speech.
The document provides information about a Kids Voting election for grades K-5 in South Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the election process and candidates for mayor of Matthews, Mint Hill, and Pineville, as well as school board candidates. Students will learn about the candidates and issues, review the information, decide which candidates they support, and vote either at school or online. After the election, they can track whether the winning candidates fulfill their promises.
The document provides information about a mock election lesson for students. It includes descriptions of 5 fantasy candidates - Spider Man, Cinderella, Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, and Smokey the Bear. For each candidate, it lists their background and experience, as well as potential strengths and weaknesses. It then outlines activities for students to learn about the candidates, create advertisements for them, debate their qualities, and vote on the best candidate.
The document provides information about an upcoming election for students in grades K-12 in North Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the roles of mayor and school board, lists the candidates running for those offices in Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville, and gives guidance to students on learning about the candidates and participating in the election.
Election2011 - Middle and High school - CharlotteGenerationNation
This document provides information about the Kids Voting Election 2011 for grades 6-12 in Charlotte, including details about candidates and ballot issues. It explains the roles of mayor, city council members, and school board members. It encourages students to learn about the candidates, think critically about their positions, and make informed decisions when voting.
2012 elections work and beyond (prelim draft)James Koshiba
The document summarizes the work of an organization called Kanu in engaging voters for the 2012 elections in Hawaii. [1] Kanu gathered community input to draft candidate questionnaires, registered over 2,600 new voters in low-turnout areas, and provided election information in new formats. [2] Kanu's work engaged over 3,000 community members and saw increased web traffic and positive feedback. [3] Moving forward, Kanu aims to practice grassroots advocacy, educate communities on policy issues, and develop citizen and youth leaders through continued civic engagement and leadership training.
This document provides information about Kids Voting Election 2011 for grades K-5 in Charlotte, North Carolina. It defines key election terms and outlines the candidates and roles for mayor, city council, and school board. Students are encouraged to learn about the candidates, think critically about their positions, and vote either at school or online. After the election, students can track the winners' actions and continued involvement.
This document provides 5 tips for being an active and informed voter:
1. Learn about the candidates and issues in the election by focusing on an issue you care about.
2. Think about and analyze the information you find to determine if it is truthful and helps you decide which candidate is best qualified.
3. Review what you've learned about the candidates and decide which one you think will do the best job based on their background, positions, and solutions to problems.
4. Take action by voting every year to make your voice heard, and also share your ideas and get involved in the community.
5. Stay engaged after the election by keeping track of elected officials, attending meetings, and contacting them about
Learn about the Utah caucus system and how to become a delegate. Utah delegates make a difference in Utah's current candidate selection process. (2014)
Increasing Voter Knowledge with Pre-Election Interventions on FacebookMIT GOV/LAB
As part of our Data Science to Solve Social Problems series, Facebook Data Scientist Winter Mason presented on efforts to increase online civic engagement.
The document summarizes the analysis of election literature from two candidates, Maxine Boag and Will Jenkins, running for local councilor in Napier, New Zealand. Both candidates answered "yes" to a question from the local MP about whether the Napier City Council could do more to enhance the Marine Parade boulevard. However, their responses differed in specificity and commitment - Jenkins was more vague in his suggestions, while Boag provided more direct and specific ideas. The analysis indicates the candidates see power as residing with the voters and are tailoring their responses accordingly to try and gain support and votes.
This document provides information about running for a student union election, including the roles and responsibilities of elected officers, the election process, campaigning tips, and rules. It discusses representing students, organizing activities and services. It explains that elections allow students to be represented and choose leaders through a transferable voting system. Campaigning advice includes explaining your policies, speaking to different student groups, using posters and flyers, and having a clear message and campaign team. Fairness and following rules are emphasized.
Presentation prepared for a series of lectures on Voting and Elections for PS 101 American Government at the University of Kentucky, Spring 2007. Dr. Christopher S. Rice, Instructor.
Anaisja’s Civic Minded Project ReflectionAnaisja Henry
Anaisja Henry served as a Summer Youth Intern at the Blue Hills Civic Association through the Civic Minded program, which aimed to develop neighborhoods in Hartford. Through a series of field assignments, including a scavenger hunt in Downtown Hartford, visits to a local elementary school and Trinity College, and a voter registration event, Anaisja was challenged to step outside her comfort zone, practice public speaking and socializing, and learn how she can make a positive impact in her community. She feels the experience was pivotal and taught her to have more confidence in herself and pride in her work.
The document summarizes interviews conducted with students at California State University, Long Beach about their opinions on the 2016 US presidential election. It finds that students held diverse political views that represented both ends of the political spectrum. While most agreed the Electoral College system is flawed, some supported it as a way to prevent impassioned or ignorant citizens from dictating the election outcome. Many students supported Bernie Sanders but others strongly opposed him. Donald Trump was the candidate that generated the most intense responses, both in support and opposition. Overall, the election has sparked passionate debate and divided opinions among the students.
This document provides an overview of the key steps to take when planning a local political campaign for elected office. It discusses factors to consider such as determining which position to run for based on one's skills and experience, meeting eligibility requirements, fundraising, recruiting volunteers, learning the issues, public speaking skills, interacting with the community both online and offline, and getting out the vote. The main message is that running a campaign requires significant time, effort, money and personal sacrifice but can make a positive impact on one's community if done successfully.
This document provides resources for a civic learning opportunity about the 2014 election. It includes activities to educate students about democracy, government, and participating in the election process. Students will learn about roles and structures of government, gather and analyze information to think critically and make decisions, and participate in a mock election. Resources include information on candidates, activities, and standards alignments for grades K-12.
This document discusses approaches to local governance, including traditional and collaborative models. It outlines challenges facing local governments like complex issues and lack of trust. Collaborative governance aims to involve citizens, officials, and organizations in addressing community problems through dialogue. This helps address "wicked" problems with no clear solutions by gaining diverse perspectives. The document provides principles of public engagement, deliberation, and civility to help communities solve issues through respectful collaboration.
The document provides an overview of key concepts related to media, political parties, voting, and campaigns in the United States. It defines media, bias, and strategies for evaluating campaigns. It describes the functions of political parties and explains primaries, the two-party system, and the political spectrum. It also outlines the electoral college process, voter registration requirements, and campaign fundraising.
Previous Reynolds Fellow Scott Swafford addressed attendees at the 2014 Missouri Press Association meeting about how small newspapers can better cover local elections.
Public Affairs Presentation - Daniel Salvatore Campaign Wrap-upStephanie Fusco
The document summarizes Daniel Salvatore's 2010 campaign for municipal election in Ward 2 of Vaughan, Ontario. It describes Daniel's background and involvement in student politics. It outlines the campaign team's efforts to gather demographic information on the ward and engage voters through canvassing, a BBQ event, social media, and election day scrutineering. It notes that Daniel received 23% of the vote in a close race, gaining familiarity with the community for a future campaign.
This document discusses how the skills gained from working as a CA are useful for obtaining other opportunities in professional schools, employment, and volunteer positions. It outlines that these organizations seek skills like communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem solving. The document then reviews the responsibilities of a CA and how the role develops these skills. It also presents career pathways in residence life, student affairs, and related fields, showing positions from entry-level to mid/upper management. Finally, it provides tips for showcasing these skills in a cover letter, resume, and interview.
2010 Ontario Municipal Election Resource for Student Vote - Frenchjeremysandor
This is a French version of the Student Vote Education Resource that I developed for elementary and high school teachers for the 2010 Ontario municipal and school board elections.
More Related Content
Similar to Municipal Election Lesson 7 - Making Your Decision
The document provides information about a mock election lesson for students. It includes descriptions of 5 fantasy candidates - Spider Man, Cinderella, Mickey Mouse, Santa Claus, and Smokey the Bear. For each candidate, it lists their background and experience, as well as potential strengths and weaknesses. It then outlines activities for students to learn about the candidates, create advertisements for them, debate their qualities, and vote on the best candidate.
The document provides information about an upcoming election for students in grades K-12 in North Mecklenburg towns. It outlines the roles of mayor and school board, lists the candidates running for those offices in Cornelius, Davidson and Huntersville, and gives guidance to students on learning about the candidates and participating in the election.
Election2011 - Middle and High school - CharlotteGenerationNation
This document provides information about the Kids Voting Election 2011 for grades 6-12 in Charlotte, including details about candidates and ballot issues. It explains the roles of mayor, city council members, and school board members. It encourages students to learn about the candidates, think critically about their positions, and make informed decisions when voting.
2012 elections work and beyond (prelim draft)James Koshiba
The document summarizes the work of an organization called Kanu in engaging voters for the 2012 elections in Hawaii. [1] Kanu gathered community input to draft candidate questionnaires, registered over 2,600 new voters in low-turnout areas, and provided election information in new formats. [2] Kanu's work engaged over 3,000 community members and saw increased web traffic and positive feedback. [3] Moving forward, Kanu aims to practice grassroots advocacy, educate communities on policy issues, and develop citizen and youth leaders through continued civic engagement and leadership training.
This document provides information about Kids Voting Election 2011 for grades K-5 in Charlotte, North Carolina. It defines key election terms and outlines the candidates and roles for mayor, city council, and school board. Students are encouraged to learn about the candidates, think critically about their positions, and vote either at school or online. After the election, students can track the winners' actions and continued involvement.
This document provides 5 tips for being an active and informed voter:
1. Learn about the candidates and issues in the election by focusing on an issue you care about.
2. Think about and analyze the information you find to determine if it is truthful and helps you decide which candidate is best qualified.
3. Review what you've learned about the candidates and decide which one you think will do the best job based on their background, positions, and solutions to problems.
4. Take action by voting every year to make your voice heard, and also share your ideas and get involved in the community.
5. Stay engaged after the election by keeping track of elected officials, attending meetings, and contacting them about
Learn about the Utah caucus system and how to become a delegate. Utah delegates make a difference in Utah's current candidate selection process. (2014)
Increasing Voter Knowledge with Pre-Election Interventions on FacebookMIT GOV/LAB
As part of our Data Science to Solve Social Problems series, Facebook Data Scientist Winter Mason presented on efforts to increase online civic engagement.
The document summarizes the analysis of election literature from two candidates, Maxine Boag and Will Jenkins, running for local councilor in Napier, New Zealand. Both candidates answered "yes" to a question from the local MP about whether the Napier City Council could do more to enhance the Marine Parade boulevard. However, their responses differed in specificity and commitment - Jenkins was more vague in his suggestions, while Boag provided more direct and specific ideas. The analysis indicates the candidates see power as residing with the voters and are tailoring their responses accordingly to try and gain support and votes.
This document provides information about running for a student union election, including the roles and responsibilities of elected officers, the election process, campaigning tips, and rules. It discusses representing students, organizing activities and services. It explains that elections allow students to be represented and choose leaders through a transferable voting system. Campaigning advice includes explaining your policies, speaking to different student groups, using posters and flyers, and having a clear message and campaign team. Fairness and following rules are emphasized.
Presentation prepared for a series of lectures on Voting and Elections for PS 101 American Government at the University of Kentucky, Spring 2007. Dr. Christopher S. Rice, Instructor.
Anaisja’s Civic Minded Project ReflectionAnaisja Henry
Anaisja Henry served as a Summer Youth Intern at the Blue Hills Civic Association through the Civic Minded program, which aimed to develop neighborhoods in Hartford. Through a series of field assignments, including a scavenger hunt in Downtown Hartford, visits to a local elementary school and Trinity College, and a voter registration event, Anaisja was challenged to step outside her comfort zone, practice public speaking and socializing, and learn how she can make a positive impact in her community. She feels the experience was pivotal and taught her to have more confidence in herself and pride in her work.
The document summarizes interviews conducted with students at California State University, Long Beach about their opinions on the 2016 US presidential election. It finds that students held diverse political views that represented both ends of the political spectrum. While most agreed the Electoral College system is flawed, some supported it as a way to prevent impassioned or ignorant citizens from dictating the election outcome. Many students supported Bernie Sanders but others strongly opposed him. Donald Trump was the candidate that generated the most intense responses, both in support and opposition. Overall, the election has sparked passionate debate and divided opinions among the students.
This document provides an overview of the key steps to take when planning a local political campaign for elected office. It discusses factors to consider such as determining which position to run for based on one's skills and experience, meeting eligibility requirements, fundraising, recruiting volunteers, learning the issues, public speaking skills, interacting with the community both online and offline, and getting out the vote. The main message is that running a campaign requires significant time, effort, money and personal sacrifice but can make a positive impact on one's community if done successfully.
This document provides resources for a civic learning opportunity about the 2014 election. It includes activities to educate students about democracy, government, and participating in the election process. Students will learn about roles and structures of government, gather and analyze information to think critically and make decisions, and participate in a mock election. Resources include information on candidates, activities, and standards alignments for grades K-12.
This document discusses approaches to local governance, including traditional and collaborative models. It outlines challenges facing local governments like complex issues and lack of trust. Collaborative governance aims to involve citizens, officials, and organizations in addressing community problems through dialogue. This helps address "wicked" problems with no clear solutions by gaining diverse perspectives. The document provides principles of public engagement, deliberation, and civility to help communities solve issues through respectful collaboration.
The document provides an overview of key concepts related to media, political parties, voting, and campaigns in the United States. It defines media, bias, and strategies for evaluating campaigns. It describes the functions of political parties and explains primaries, the two-party system, and the political spectrum. It also outlines the electoral college process, voter registration requirements, and campaign fundraising.
Previous Reynolds Fellow Scott Swafford addressed attendees at the 2014 Missouri Press Association meeting about how small newspapers can better cover local elections.
Public Affairs Presentation - Daniel Salvatore Campaign Wrap-upStephanie Fusco
The document summarizes Daniel Salvatore's 2010 campaign for municipal election in Ward 2 of Vaughan, Ontario. It describes Daniel's background and involvement in student politics. It outlines the campaign team's efforts to gather demographic information on the ward and engage voters through canvassing, a BBQ event, social media, and election day scrutineering. It notes that Daniel received 23% of the vote in a close race, gaining familiarity with the community for a future campaign.
Similar to Municipal Election Lesson 7 - Making Your Decision (20)
This document discusses how the skills gained from working as a CA are useful for obtaining other opportunities in professional schools, employment, and volunteer positions. It outlines that these organizations seek skills like communication, teamwork, leadership, and problem solving. The document then reviews the responsibilities of a CA and how the role develops these skills. It also presents career pathways in residence life, student affairs, and related fields, showing positions from entry-level to mid/upper management. Finally, it provides tips for showcasing these skills in a cover letter, resume, and interview.
2010 Ontario Municipal Election Resource for Student Vote - Frenchjeremysandor
This is a French version of the Student Vote Education Resource that I developed for elementary and high school teachers for the 2010 Ontario municipal and school board elections.
2010 Ontario Municipal Election Resource for Student Vote - Englishjeremysandor
This is an English version of the Student Vote Education Resource that I developed for elementary and high school teachers for the 2010 Ontario municipal and school board elections.
Municipal Election Lesson 4 - School Boardsjeremysandor
This is lesson four of seven about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson requires students to explore the composition and function of school boards in Ontario.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
Municipal Election Lesson 6 - Candidates for Electionjeremysandor
This is lesson six of seven about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson requires students to investigate the platform and qualities of respective municipal and school board candidates.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
Municipal Election Lesson 5 - Local Election Issuesjeremysandor
Informed participation in local elections is important for democracy. Citizens should understand key issues and candidates' positions. Some issues in municipal and school board elections include funding priorities and needs in the community. It is crucial for voters to identify credible sources of information about issues and candidates' solutions to make an informed choice that reflects their vision for the community's future.
Municipal Election Lesson 3 - Municipal Governmentsjeremysandor
This is lesson three of seven about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson allows students to explore the composition and function of municipal governments in Ontario.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
Municipal Election Lesson 2 - Levels of Government in Canadajeremysandor
This is lesson two of seven about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson familiarizes students with the different structure and responsibilities of the three levels of government in Canada.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
Municipal Election Lesson 1 - Why Votejeremysandor
This is lesson one of seven about municipal elections that I developed and proposed for Student Vote.
This lesson allows students to explore and identify reasons for participating in democratic elections.
Please refer to Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resources for references and supporting information.
Municipal Election Lessons Additional Resourcesjeremysandor
The document provides a list of additional resources related to lessons on civic engagement and government in Canada, including:
- Links to websites on voting, citizens' rights, different levels of government.
- Questions for students to reflect on topics like voting, democracy, responsibilities of government.
- Tools for teachers like websites for creating presentations, mind maps, and assessing literacy.
Municipal Election Lesson 7 - Making Your Decision
1. Big Idea:
Informed participation in local government both stimulates and upholds the principles of
democracy.
Essential Question:
What are the characteristics of an informed Canadian citizen participating in a municipal election or
school board election?
Making Your Decision
An informed election decision is based upon personal priorities and information critically gathered
and analyzed from a broad range of sources, experiences, and interactions.
Hook 5-10 min.
Consider the story of four individuals who have arrived at a polling station to cast ballots for their
local municipal and school board elections, found on Handout 7.1. Discuss which of these people
should be allowed to vote in each election as well as who is most prepared to vote in each election.
What does this example tell you about the people who will actually be participating in elections?
Essential Learning 20-30 min.
1. Using Handouts 7.2 and 7.3, review your personal values, experiences and developments
during the election campaign, and your knowledge of each municipal and school board
candidate in order to prioritize the candidates in order of their suitability to represent your
vision for your community.
2. Propose how an individual might determine that they have enough information to make an
informed decision as a voter.
3. From this set of activities, review what you have discussed and learned about the value of
informed participation in elections.
Extended Learning 20-30 min.
Option A:
Your actions and words can be a means of voting. When you buy a certain chocolate bar, shop at a
particular store, or choose one option from a selection of many, you are identifying that thing,
place, or concept as more worthy than the other options. Select and act upon a way to “vote” for a
particular candidate using your words or actions. (ex. initiate a political discussion with friends or at
home, post a lawn sign, participate in a rally, write a letter to the editor of a local newspaper,
participate in a candidate’s election campaign)
Option B:
Use the items you have been collecting in your portfolio to evaluate the importance that class
activities, personal values, election issues, and developments in the municipal and school board
election campaigns have had on your decision to vote for a particular candidate.
Option C:
Develop an impartial pamphlet that an eligible voter could use in order to become knowledgeable
about the issues, candidates, and campaign platforms for the upcoming election as well as
appropriate methods and locations for voting. Use this pamphlet as a tool to help an eligible voter
prepare to vote and acquire the knowledge that every informed voter should demonstrate before
casting a ballot.
Key Terms
2. informed; priority
Essential Questions
What information am I using to back up my voting decision for a particular candidate?
In general, what should I know and/or have done before I make a voting decision?
Do I feel I have enough information to vote?
Teacher Preparation
Select teaching strategies for essential learning activities
Make class copies of required handouts
Book computer lab, if desired
Preview websites to be used for class activities, if desired (see chapter on Additional Resources)
Select extended learning activity and teaching strategies, if desired
Assessment
Students should provide evidence that they have the ability to synthesize personal values,
knowledge of candidates, and knowledge of election issues in order to make an informed judgment
as to the candidate that would best represent the students’ personal vision for their community.
3. Handout 7.1: Heading to The Polls
Consider the following story about four individuals participating in the municipal election.
Sammie, Jannah, Noel, and Florence all arrived at the Legion Hall at roughly the same time.
Noel was showing his driver’s licence to a poll clerk when Jannah held the door open for
Sammie and Florence to enter the hall.
The inside of the Legion Hall was full people who had finished work for the day and were
voting in the municipal election on their way home to dinner. The hall was full of
movement, but most people spoke in low tones, as if they were in a library.
As Noel took his ballot to a voting screen, he wondered who he would vote for. Noel had
been planning on staying home for the afternoon since he was not even aware that an
election campaign was occurring, but his housemates were headed to the polling station, so
he has decided to cast a ballot based purely on gut feeling. He tried to remember if there
were any election posters he had seen on the walk over the polling station.
After receiving his ballot, Sammie strode to a voting screen recently vacated by an elderly
woman.
Sammie had been following one candidate running for city councillor very closely; after
reading the candidate’s election platform closely and meeting the candidate on a number of
occasions, Sammie was certain he would be not voting for that candidate. He scanned the
ballot looking for another name he recognized.
When Florence opened her ballot behind the voting screen, she was still a little undecided
about who she would elect. Florence had met only two of three candidates running for
councillor in person and one of four candidates running for school board trustee, but she
had also been keeping up on developments in both the municipal and school board
campaigns by reading the newspaper every morning. She bit her bottom lip as she slowly
marked an “X” beside the names of her selected candidates.
As Jannah stepped out from behind the polling screen, she had a determined look on her
face. Jannah had only been following the school board candidates; she was very passionate
about education and had shared heated exchanges with each the school board candidates
over the course of the past month. She had made her choice about the best candidate
though – no changing her mind now. As she watched the ballot slide into the ballot box,
she wondered if the municipal candidate she had checked off was any good.
Noel was already well on his way to his apartment when Sammie, Florence, and Jannah
walked out the door and made their separate ways home. They would have to wait until the
following day to find out who had been elected.
Discuss which of these people you think should be allowed to vote in each election as well as who is
most prepared to vote in each election. What does this example tell you about the people who
participate in elections?
4. Handout 7.2: Decision-Making Inventory – Municipal Election
Review your personal values, experiences and developments occurring during the election
campaign, and your knowledge of each municipal candidate to prioritize the candidates in order of
their suitability to represent your vision for your community.
Qualities I look for in a school leader
Things that are important to Things that are important to Things that are important to
me at school me in my life you in my community
Election issues that are most
important to me
Qualities I look for in a
community leader
Candidate:
What I like
most about
this candidate
is that…
What I like
least about
this candidate
is that…
My Ranking of Municipal Candidates
5. Handout 7.3: Decision-Making Inventory – School Board Election
Review your personal values, experiences and developments occurring during the election
campaign, and your knowledge of each municipal candidate to prioritize the candidates in order of
their suitability to represent your vision for your community.
Things that are important to Things that are important to Things that are important to
me at school me in my life you in my community
Election issues that are most
important to me
Qualities I look for in a school
leader
Candidate:
What I like
most about
this candidate
is that…
What I like
least about
this candidate
is that…
My Ranking of School Board Candidates