Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to understand the structure of the Australian government and how communities make decisions in different ways, with a focus on voting as a way for groups to make decisions democratically.

Materials and Prep

• Pen or pencil
• Blank paper
• Internet access (optional)

Activities

1. Start by discussing the concept of government and citizenship with the student. Ask them what they know about the Australian government and how communities make decisions.

2. Introduce the structure of the Australian government. Explain that it consists of three branches: the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. Discuss the roles and responsibilities of each branch.

3. Next, explain the concept of democracy and how it relates to decision-making in communities. Discuss how voting is a way for groups to make decisions democratically. Provide examples of different scenarios where voting is used, such as electing leaders or making decisions in a classroom.

4. Engage the student in a hands-on activity where they can experience the process of voting. Create a mock election by having the student choose between two options (e.g., favorite book, favorite animal). Provide them with blank paper and ask them to write down their choice. Collect and count the votes to determine the winner.

5. Discuss the importance of participating in the democratic process and making informed decisions. Encourage the student to ask questions and seek information before making choices.

Third Grade Talking Points

• "The Australian government has three branches: executive, legislative, and judicial."
• "The executive branch is responsible for carrying out and enforcing laws."
• "The legislative branch makes the laws and includes the Parliament."
• "The judicial branch interprets the laws and includes the courts."
• "Communities make decisions in different ways, and one way is through voting."
• "Voting is a way for groups to make decisions together."
• "In a democracy, everyone has a chance to vote and have their voice heard."
• "When we vote, we choose between different options and the option with the most votes wins."
• "It's important to make informed decisions by asking questions and seeking information."
• "Participating in the democratic process is important for being an active citizen."