S. Kay GandyThese creative lessons teach younger students about political parties and campaigns, the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and the powers of local, state, and national governments.

C. Frederick RisingerThe battle over values may be a determining issue in the race for the White House. The author identifies various websites to help teachers examine this topic.

Social Education staffVoter turnout in the United States is somewhat below turnout in other industrialized nations. Our younger voters have the lowest rate of all. In this information section, several NCSS teachers share strategies for making students informed and active voters.

Social Education staffTelevised debates offer students a rare opportunity to see candidates discuss issues face-to-face. This guide outlines handy teaching tips for incorporating the debates into the classroom.

David Dulio and the staff of the National Student/Parent Mock ElectionWhen citizens step into the voting booth on election day, they are not actually voting for their candidate, but rather choosing a group of electors. This set of classroom activities explains one distinctively American institution--the Electoral College.

Syd GolstonA presidential election year presents the ideal moment for promoting an informed electorate and forming thoughtful young citizens with these activities for K-12 students.

Daniel F. Rulli John Brown’s raid on Harpers Ferry--considered treasonous by some and heroic by others--helped strengthen the anti-slavery movement. Students can gain a deeper understanding of this event by studying General Lee’s demand for Brown’s surrender.

Wynell Schamel Teachers can use this compelling collection of letters from needy children during the Great Depression to explore relevant issues such as the image of the United States as a land of opportunity, the role of government in the lives of citizens, and the importance of dissent in a democracy.