Objective

By the end of this lesson, Charlie will understand the key components of the 2024 Presidential election campaign, specifically focusing on Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. He will learn about their platforms, campaign strategies, and the significance of their roles in American politics, while also developing critical thinking skills about political discourse.

Materials and Prep

• Notebook and pen for taking notes
• Access to a computer or tablet for research
• Printouts of recent news articles about the 2024 election
• Whiteboard or large paper for brainstorming ideas
• Timer for timed activities

Activities

• Research and Compare:

  Charlie will spend some time researching the campaign platforms of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. He will create a comparison chart highlighting their main policies, promises, and any recent campaign events.

• Mock Debate:

  Charlie will prepare for a mock debate where he will represent either Trump or Harris. He will choose key points from their platforms and present arguments for why his candidate would be the best choice for President.

• Campaign Poster Creation:

  Using art supplies, Charlie will design a campaign poster for either Trump or Harris. He will incorporate slogans, images, and key points from his research to make the poster engaging and informative.

• Reflection and Discussion:

  At the end of the lesson, Charlie will write a short reflection on what he learned, including his thoughts on the importance of elections and how they impact citizens' lives. This will be followed by a discussion with the teacher about his insights.

Talking Points

• "What do you think makes a good presidential candidate? Is it their policies, personality, or something else?"
• "Can you name some key issues that are important in this election? Why do you think they matter?"
• "How do you think Trump's and Harris's backgrounds influence their campaigns?"
• "What role do debates play in helping voters make their decisions?"
• "Why is it important for citizens to be informed about candidates and their platforms?"
• "How do social media and news coverage shape public opinion during elections?"
• "What are some ways that young people can get involved in politics?"
• "Can you think of any famous quotes from past presidents that might relate to this election?"
• "Why do you think voter turnout is important? What can be done to encourage more people to vote?"
• "What do you find most interesting about the election process?"
• "How do you feel about the role of political parties in our elections?"
• "What are some challenges candidates face during their campaigns?"
• "How can understanding different viewpoints help us in discussions about politics?"