Lesson Plan - 5 Big Questions About Voting

Watch the Video
Watch the video “The Fight for Voting Rights” as a class. Ask: What are some ways people have fought for the right to vote? Why do you think they have fought so hard for this right?

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know.

• eligible 
• fundamental

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them think about why it is important for Americans to vote.

1. Based on the article, what does it mean to be eligible to vote? What are the basic requirements to vote in the U.S.?
Based on the article, being eligible to vote means meeting the necessary requirements to vote. The article explains that these basic requirements are being a U.S. citizen, being at least 18 years old on Election Day, and being registered to vote.
^{R.4 Determine Meaning}

2. What are two ways that voting rights in the U.S. have changed over time, according to the article?
Sample response: The article states that in 1789, only about 6 percent of the population was allowed to vote—mostly White men who owned land. Ways that voting rights have changed over time include Black people and women gaining the right to vote. 
^{R.5 Comparison}

3. Describe two methods people may use to cast their votes on Election Day.
Two methods people may use to cast their votes on Election Day are filling out a paper ballot and marking boxes for the candidates of their choice on a computer screen.
^{R.2 Key Details}

Featured Skill: Opinion Writing
Distribute the skill builder “Get Ready to Vote” and have students draft letters to voting-age family members about the importance of voting.
^{W.1 Opinion Writing}