The Right to Vote in America

Objective:

Introduce the topic of voting in this country by watching the video “A History of Voting Rights – New York Times”.  Students will then summarize the key points from the video and about voting in general.

Assessments:

  • Participate in class discussion
  • Participate in the voting and reflection process.
  • Debrief with other students and the class.

Materials:

  • “A History of Voting Rights”
  • Pencil/ Pen
  • Paper
  • Index cards – red, blue, green, white

Differentiation:

All of the books selected for voting will be books that all the students are familiar with, not just the higher level students. This will ensure that all students are aware of the material they will be voting on. For students with Emotional Disturbances, be sure to explain the way that the voting with work in class prior to the lesson. This will help alleviate some of the possible emotions that could be triggered by being excluded as part of the example/ activity.

Videos and Media

For much of the 20th century, voting remained a contentious issue, but the Supreme Court struck down Section 4 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act on Tuesday, suggesting that conditions have changed.

“Having taught college film classes for decades, I can attest to the impact which this powerful art form can have on viewers – how it can serve as a catalyst for meaningful and thought-provoking conversations.”

– Patrick Anderson, Colby Sawyer College humanities professor, film expert

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