in-school field trips democracy - citizens participating in decision making icon

Join Ms. D. Mockracy as she leads you through a mock election in this dynamic decision making demo!

Meet the candidates, analyze campaign tactics, dissect the issues, and cast your vote. Will the winner be accountable? The fate of the school rests in the students’ hand… Let the debate begin!

Highlights

  • Theme: Mock election
  • Activities: Discussion about factors in an election, explore environmental issues, rotation between stations to explore different candidates, critical thinking about issues and candidates, vote in the mock election and discuss the results.

“The focus on curriculum objectives was clear. The activities were rigorous.”

Grade 6 TeacherNew Norway School

“Excellent. The students were engaged and discussions about each elected representative were interesting. The students enjoyed reading and understanding each person's point of view and what they represent. Lots of interaction with the students.”

Grade 6 TeacherFFCA North Middle School

“I like the idea that they need to do research to decide who to vote for. I really enjoy the discussions that come out of the process. The posters, news articles and other readings about each of the candidates are great. I like that they each have different jobs to take care of. The length of time for each candidate is good.”

G.L., Grade 6 TeacherMcArthur School

6.1.1 Recognize how individuals and governments interact and bring about change within their local and national communities:

  • Recognize and respect the democratic rights of all citizens in Canada
  • Value citizens’ participation in a democratic society
  • Value the contributions of elected representatives in the democratic process

6.1.2 Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of democracy by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:

  • What is democracy?
  • What are the similarities and differences between direct and representative democracy?
  • What are the rights and responsibilities of citizens living in a representative democracy?

6.1.4 Analyze the structure and functions of local governments in Alberta by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:

  • How are representatives chosen to form a local government (i.e., electoral process)?
  • What role is played by school boards within local communities?

6.1.6 Analyze how individuals, groups and associations within a community impact decision making of local and provincial governments by exploring and reflecting upon the following questions and issues:

  • How can individuals, groups and associations within a community participate in the decision-making process regarding current events or issues (i.e., lobbying, petitioning, organizing and attending local meetings and rallies, contacting elected representatives)?
  • In what ways do elected officials demonstrate their accountability to the electorate government meetings the concerns of constituents?