why is election important in a democratic society essay

Election Day: How We Vote and What It Means for Democracy

Emilee Booth Chapman

Voting is only one of the many ways that citizens can participate in public decision making, so why does it occupy such a central place in the democratic imagination? In  Election Day , political theorist Emilee Booth Chapman provides an original answer to that question, showing precisely what is so special about how we vote in today’s democracies. By presenting a holistic account of popular voting practices and where they fit into complex democratic systems, she defends popular attitudes toward voting against radical critics and offers much-needed guidance for voting reform. Elections embody a distinctive constellation of democratic values and perform essential functions in democratic communities. Election day dramatizes the nature of democracy as a collective and individual undertaking, makes equal citizenship and individual dignity concrete and transparent, and socializes citizens into their roles as equal political agents. Chapman shows that fully realizing these ends depends not only on the widespread opportunity to vote but also on consistently high levels of actual turnout, and that citizens’ experiences of voting matters as much as the formal properties of a voting system. And these insights are also essential for crafting and evaluating electoral reform proposals. By rethinking what citizens experience when they go to the polls,  Election Day  recovers the full value of democratic voting today.

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• History of elections

Functions of elections

Elections of officeholders, recall elections, referendum and initiative.

• Plurality and majority systems
• Single transferable vote
• Party-list proportional representation
• Hybrid systems
• Parliamentary systems
• Presidential and semipresidential systems
• Constituencies: districting and apportionment
• Secret voting
• Compulsory voting
• Electoral abuses
• Participation in elections
• Influences on voting behavior

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• Table Of Contents

Elections make a fundamental contribution to democratic governance. Because direct democracy —a form of government in which political decisions are made directly by the entire body of qualified citizens—is impractical in most modern societies, democratic government must be conducted through representatives. Elections enable voters to select leaders and to hold them accountable for their performance in office. Accountability can be undermined when elected leaders do not care whether they are reelected or when, for historical or other reasons, one party or coalition is so dominant that there is effectively no choice for voters among alternative candidates, parties, or policies. Nevertheless, the possibility of controlling leaders by requiring them to submit to regular and periodic elections helps to solve the problem of succession in leadership and thus contributes to the continuation of democracy . Moreover, where the electoral process is competitive and forces candidates or parties to expose their records and future intentions to popular scrutiny, elections serve as forums for the discussion of public issues and facilitate the expression of public opinion . Elections thus provide political education for citizens and ensure the responsiveness of democratic governments to the will of the people. They also serve to legitimize the acts of those who wield power, a function that is performed to some extent even by elections that are noncompetitive.

Elections also reinforce the stability and legitimacy of the political community . Like national holidays commemorating common experiences, elections link citizens to each other and thereby confirm the viability of the polity . As a result, elections help to facilitate social and political integration .

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Finally, elections serve a self-actualizing purpose by confirming the worth and dignity of individual citizens as human beings. Whatever other needs voters may have, participation in an election serves to reinforce their self-esteem and self-respect. Voting gives people an opportunity to have their say and, through expressing partisanship, to satisfy their need to feel a sense of belonging. Even nonvoting satisfies the need of some people to express their alienation from the political community. For precisely these reasons, the long battle for the right to vote and the demand for equality in electoral participation can be viewed as the manifestation of a profound human craving for personal fulfillment.

Whether held under authoritarian or democratic regimes, elections have a ritualistic aspect. Elections and the campaigns preceding them are dramatic events that are accompanied by rallies, banners, posters, buttons, headlines, and television coverage, all of which call attention to the importance of participation in the event. Candidates, political parties, and interest groups representing diverse objectives invoke the symbols of nationalism or patriotism, reform or revolution , past glory or future promise. Whatever the peculiar national, regional, or local variations, elections are events that, by arousing emotions and channeling them toward collective symbols, break the monotony of daily life and focus attention on the common fate.

Types of elections

Electorates have only a limited power to determine government policies. Most elections do not directly establish public policy but instead confer on a small group of officials the authority to make policy (through laws and other devices) on behalf of the electorate as a whole.

Political parties are central to the election of officeholders. The selection and nomination of candidates, a vital first stage of the electoral process, generally lies in the hands of political parties; an election serves only as the final process in the recruitment to political office. The party system thus can be regarded as an extension of the electoral process. Political parties provide the pool of talent from which candidates are drawn, and they simplify and direct the electoral choice and mobilize the electorate at the registration and election stage.

The predominance of political parties over the electoral process has not gone unchallenged. For example, some municipalities in the United States and Canada regularly hold nonpartisan elections (in which party affiliations are not formally indicated on ballots) in order to limit the influence of political parties. Nonpartisanship in the United States started as a reform movement in the early 20th century and was intended in part to isolate local politics from politics at the state and national levels. During the last decades of the 20th century, the significance of political parties declined in many democratic countries as “candidate-centered” politics emerged and campaigning and accountability became highly personalized.

Like most populist innovations , the practice of recalling officeholders is an attempt to minimize the influence of political parties on representatives. Widely adopted in the United States, the recall is designed to ensure that an elected official will act in the interests of his constituency rather than in the interests of his political party or according to his own conscience . The actual instrument of recall is usually a letter of resignation signed by the elected representative before assuming office. During the term of office, the letter can be evoked by a quorum of constituents if the representative’s performance fails to meet their expectations.

In the United States the recall has been used successfully against various types of officials, including judges, mayors, and even state governors. Although in practice the recall is not used extensively, even in jurisdictions where it is provided for constitutionally, it has been used to remove governors in North Dakota (1921) and California (2003). Following a bitter partisan fight between Democrats and Republicans over the rights of workers to bargain collectively, Wisconsin experienced in 2011 the single largest recall attempt in U.S. history; six Republicans and three Democrats in the 33-member state Senate faced a recall vote, though only two senators—both Republicans—were defeated.

The referendum and initiative are elections in which the preferences of the community are assessed on a particular issue; whereas the former are instigated by those in government, the latter are initiated by groups of electors. As forms of direct democracy , such devices reflect a reluctance to entrust full decision-making power to elected representatives. However, because voter turnout in these types of elections often is quite low, voting in referenda and initiatives may be more easily influenced by political parties and interest groups than voting in officeholder elections.

Referenda often are used for bond issues to raise and spend public money, though occasionally they are used to decide certain social or moral issues—such as restrictions on abortion or divorce—on which the elected bodies are deemed to possess no special competence. Referenda may be legislatively binding or merely consultative, but even consultative referenda are likely to be considered legislative mandates . Referenda and initiatives at the national level have been used most heavily in Switzerland , which has held about half the world’s national referenda. Evidence from Switzerland has shown that referenda brought to a vote by legislators are more likely to succeed than those initiated by the public. For example, about half of all laws and nearly three-fourths of all constitutional amendments initiated by the Swiss government have been passed, whereas only about one-tenth of all citizen initiatives have been successful. Switzerland uses referenda and initiatives extensively at the local and regional levels as well, as does the United States. Near the end of the 20th century, referenda were employed more frequently around the world than in earlier years; this was particularly true in Europe, where referenda were held to decide public policy on voting systems, treaties and peace agreements (e.g., the Treaty on European Union ), and social issues.

Plebiscites are elections held to decide two paramount types of political issues: government legitimacy and the nationality of territories contested between governments. In the former case, the incumbent government, seeking a popular mandate as a basis for legitimacy, employs a plebiscite to establish its right to speak for the nation. Plebiscites of this nature are thought to establish a direct link between the rulers and the ruled; intermediaries such as political parties are bypassed, and for this reason plebiscites are sometimes considered antithetical to pluralism and competitive politics. Following the French Revolution in 1789, the plebiscite was widely popular in France, rooted as it was in the ideas of nationalism and popular sovereignty . In the 20th century, totalitarian regimes have employed plebiscites to legitimize their rule.

Plebiscites also have been used as a device for deciding the nationality of territories. For example, after World War I the League of Nations proposed 11 such plebiscites, the most successful of which was held in 1935 in the Saar , until the end of the war a state of Germany that had been administered by the League for 15 years; its inhabitants chose overwhelmingly to return to Germany rather than to become a part of France. This use of plebiscites, however, is relatively rare, because it requires the prior agreement of the governments involved on an issue that is usually very contentious .

Systems of vote counting

Individual votes are translated into collective decisions by a wide variety of rules of counting that voters and leaders have accepted as legitimate prior to the election. These rules may in principle call for plurality voting, which requires only that the winner have the greatest number of votes; absolute majority voting, which requires that the winner receive more than half the total number of votes; extraordinary majority voting, which requires some higher proportion for the winner (e.g., a two-thirds majority); proportional voting , which requires that a political party receive some threshold to receive representation; or unanimity.

Legislative elections

A wide variety of electoral systems exist for apportioning legislative seats. In practice, legislative electoral systems can be classified into three broad categories: plurality and majority systems (collectively known as majoritarian systems); proportional systems; and hybrid, or semiproportional, systems. The electoral system is an important variable in explaining public policy decisions, because it determines the number of political parties able to receive representation and thereby participate in government.

Essay on Importance of Election

Students are often asked to write an essay on Importance of Election in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Importance of Election

Introduction.

Elections are vital for a democratic society. They allow citizens to choose their leaders and express their opinions on various issues.

Significance of Elections

Elections empower people, ensuring their voices are heard. They are a tool for citizens to hold their leaders accountable.

Impact on Governance

Elections influence the quality of governance. They encourage leaders to work for the welfare of the people to secure votes.

In conclusion, elections are crucial for the functioning of democracy. They ensure the power remains with the people.

250 Words Essay on Importance of Election

The essence of democracy, power to the people.

Elections empower the populace, providing a platform for citizens to voice their opinions, concerns, and aspirations. It is through elections that ordinary people can influence policy-making, ensuring that government actions align with the public’s desires. The power to elect leaders provides a check on political authority, preventing the rise of autocracy.

Accountability and Transparency

Elections promote accountability and transparency in governance. Elected officials are answerable to the public, and their actions are subject to scrutiny. If they fail to meet the electorate’s expectations, they risk losing their positions in subsequent elections. This possibility encourages politicians to work for the public good and discourages corruption.

Peaceful Transition of Power

Elections provide a peaceful mechanism for transitioning power. In societies without democratic processes, power struggles often lead to violence and instability. Elections help avoid such scenarios by establishing a clear, peaceful process for leadership change.

In essence, elections are crucial to a functioning democracy. They empower citizens, promote accountability, and ensure peaceful transitions of power. As the next generation of voters, it is vital for college students to understand the importance of elections and actively participate in them to shape the future they desire.

500 Words Essay on Importance of Election

Elections are the cornerstone of a vibrant democracy, providing the mechanism through which citizens exercise their right to choose their representatives. They are the conduit for the expression of public will, ensuring that governance is in the hands of those who have the mandate of the people.

The Role of Elections in Democracy

Elections also ensure the peaceful transfer of power. In many countries, conflicts arise when there is a dispute over leadership. Elections, when conducted fairly, can prevent such conflicts by providing a clear, transparent process for choosing leaders.

Importance of Participation in Elections

Participation in elections is a fundamental responsibility of every citizen in a democratic society. When citizens vote, they are not merely selecting a representative; they are expressing their vision for the society they want to live in. Each vote is a testament to the values, priorities, and aspirations of the voter.

Implications of Elections on Policy Making

Elections have a profound impact on policy-making. The elected representatives are responsible for formulating policies that address the needs and aspirations of their constituents. The direction of these policies is often influenced by the promises made during the election campaign. Therefore, elections can shape the course of a nation’s development.

Furthermore, elections can lead to policy changes by bringing new parties or individuals to power. These new entrants can introduce fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to existing problems, leading to progressive policy shifts.

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Essay on Importance of Election – Short & Long Essay Examples

Essay on Importance of Election: Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, providing citizens with the opportunity to have a say in their government and shape the future of their country. In this essay, we will explore the importance of elections in ensuring a fair and representative government, as well as the role they play in holding leaders accountable and promoting transparency. By participating in elections, citizens can exercise their right to vote and make their voices heard, ultimately contributing to a more just and equitable society.

Table of Contents

Importance of Election Essay Writing Tips

1. Start by introducing the topic of the essay, explaining the importance of elections in a democratic society. Mention that elections are the cornerstone of democracy and play a crucial role in shaping the future of a nation.

2. Discuss the significance of elections in ensuring accountability and transparency in government. Elections provide citizens with the opportunity to hold their leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. This helps in preventing corruption and ensuring that the government works in the best interest of the people.

3. Highlight the role of elections in promoting political participation and civic engagement. Elections encourage citizens to actively participate in the political process by voting for their preferred candidates. This helps in giving voice to the people and ensuring that their opinions and concerns are heard by the government.

4. Explain how elections help in promoting peaceful transitions of power. In a democratic society, elections allow for a peaceful transfer of power from one government to another. This helps in maintaining stability and continuity in governance, preventing political instability and conflicts.

5. Discuss the role of elections in promoting diversity and representation. Elections provide an opportunity for people from diverse backgrounds to participate in the political process and have their voices heard. This helps in ensuring that the government represents the interests of all segments of society.

6. Mention the importance of free and fair elections in upholding the principles of democracy. Free and fair elections are essential for ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected in the election results. This helps in maintaining the legitimacy of the government and fostering trust in the political system.

7. Provide examples of countries where elections have played a crucial role in bringing about positive changes and promoting democracy. Mention instances where elections have led to the election of progressive leaders and the implementation of policies that benefit the people.

8. Conclude the essay by summarizing the key points discussed and reiterating the importance of elections in a democratic society. Emphasize that elections are a fundamental right of citizens and a key mechanism for ensuring good governance and accountability.

Essay on Importance of Election in 10 Lines – Examples

1. Elections are crucial for ensuring a fair and democratic process for selecting leaders and representatives. 2. They give citizens the opportunity to have a say in how their country is governed and who represents them. 3. Elections help to hold leaders accountable for their actions and decisions. 4. They allow for peaceful transitions of power, preventing political instability and conflict. 5. Elections promote civic engagement and participation in the political process. 6. They give marginalized and minority groups a voice in government and help to ensure their rights are protected. 7. Elections provide a mechanism for resolving disagreements and conflicts within society. 8. They help to maintain the legitimacy of the government and ensure that it is responsive to the needs and concerns of the people. 9. Elections are a fundamental aspect of a free and open society, allowing for the expression of diverse viewpoints and ideas. 10. Ultimately, elections are essential for upholding the principles of democracy and ensuring that the government serves the interests of the people.

Sample Essay on Importance of Election in 100-180 Words

Elections are a fundamental aspect of democracy as they provide citizens with the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process of their country. Through elections, people can choose their representatives who will work towards the betterment of society and address their concerns.

Elections also ensure accountability and transparency in governance as elected officials are held responsible for their actions and decisions. It allows for a peaceful transfer of power and prevents the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals.

Moreover, elections promote civic engagement and political awareness among citizens. It encourages people to voice their opinions, debate on important issues, and actively participate in the political process.

In conclusion, the importance of elections cannot be overstated as they are essential for the functioning of a democratic society. It is through elections that the will of the people is expressed, and their voices are heard in shaping the future of their nation.

Short Essay on Importance of Election in 200-500 Words

Elections are a fundamental aspect of any democratic society. They serve as a mechanism through which citizens can exercise their right to choose their leaders and representatives. The importance of elections cannot be overstated, as they are crucial in ensuring that the government is accountable to the people and that their voices are heard.

One of the primary reasons why elections are important is that they provide citizens with the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. By casting their vote, individuals are able to have a say in who governs them and the policies that will be implemented. This helps to ensure that the government is representative of the will of the people and that their interests are taken into account.

Furthermore, elections are essential for holding leaders accountable. By regularly holding elections, citizens are able to evaluate the performance of their elected officials and decide whether they should be re-elected. This helps to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of a few individuals and ensures that those in positions of authority are held responsible for their actions.

In addition, elections are important for promoting political stability and peaceful transitions of power. In countries where elections are held regularly and are free and fair, there is less likelihood of political unrest and instability. This is because citizens have a legitimate and peaceful means of expressing their grievances and effecting change through the electoral process.

Moreover, elections are crucial for fostering a sense of civic engagement and participation among citizens. By participating in elections, individuals are able to become more informed about political issues and develop a greater understanding of the workings of government. This helps to strengthen the democratic fabric of society and promote active citizenship.

Overall, elections play a vital role in ensuring that governments are accountable to the people, promoting political stability, and fostering civic engagement. They are a cornerstone of democracy and are essential for upholding the principles of freedom, equality, and justice. It is therefore imperative that citizens take their right to vote seriously and participate in the electoral process to ensure that their voices are heard and their interests are represented.

Essay on Importance of Election in 1000-1500 Words

Elections are a fundamental aspect of any democratic society. They provide citizens with the opportunity to participate in the decision-making process and have a say in who represents them in government. The importance of elections cannot be overstated, as they are the cornerstone of democracy and play a crucial role in shaping the future of a nation.

One of the primary reasons why elections are so important is that they give citizens a voice in the political process. In a democracy, the power ultimately lies with the people, and elections are the mechanism through which they exercise that power. By casting their vote, citizens have the ability to choose their representatives and hold them accountable for their actions. This ensures that the government remains responsive to the needs and concerns of the people, and that those in power are held to a higher standard.

Furthermore, elections are essential for ensuring that the government is representative of the population as a whole. In a diverse society, it is important that all voices are heard and that all groups are adequately represented in government. Elections provide a platform for different candidates to put forth their ideas and policies, allowing voters to choose the individuals who best reflect their values and beliefs. This diversity of representation is crucial for fostering inclusivity and ensuring that the government is truly of the people, by the people, and for the people.

Moreover, elections are vital for promoting political stability and peaceful transitions of power. In many countries, the peaceful transfer of power is a hallmark of a functioning democracy. By holding regular elections, nations can ensure that power is not concentrated in the hands of a few individuals or groups, and that there are mechanisms in place for the peaceful transfer of power from one administration to the next. This helps to prevent political instability, conflict, and violence, and fosters a sense of trust and confidence in the political system.

In addition, elections are crucial for fostering accountability and transparency in government. By providing citizens with the opportunity to vote for their representatives, elections create a system of checks and balances that holds those in power accountable for their actions. Elected officials are accountable to the people who put them in office, and must answer to them for their decisions and policies. This accountability helps to prevent corruption, abuse of power, and other forms of misconduct, and ensures that the government operates in the best interests of the people.

Furthermore, elections are essential for promoting civic engagement and participation. By participating in elections, citizens have the opportunity to have a direct impact on the political process and shape the future of their country. This engagement helps to foster a sense of civic responsibility and community, and encourages individuals to become more informed and active members of society. Elections also provide a platform for different ideas and perspectives to be heard, and for individuals to come together to debate and discuss important issues facing their nation.

Moreover, elections are crucial for promoting social cohesion and national unity. In a diverse society, elections provide a common ground for citizens to come together and participate in the democratic process. By voting for their representatives, citizens can bridge their differences and work towards common goals and objectives. This sense of unity and solidarity is essential for building a strong and cohesive nation, and for fostering a sense of belonging and identity among all citizens.

In conclusion, elections are a cornerstone of democracy and play a crucial role in shaping the future of a nation. They provide citizens with a voice in the political process, ensure that the government is representative of the population, promote political stability and peaceful transitions of power, foster accountability and transparency, promote civic engagement and participation, and promote social cohesion and national unity. Without elections, a nation cannot truly call itself a democracy, and the rights and freedoms of its citizens are at risk. Therefore, it is essential that we recognize the importance of elections and work to protect and uphold them as a fundamental aspect of our democratic society.

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What Can Voting Do for Democracy?

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Justin Pottle, What Can Voting Do for Democracy?, Political Science Quarterly , 2023;, qqad110, https://doi.org/10.1093/psquar/qqad110

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Empirical political scientists and normative political theorists alike have challenged the grip elections hold on our democratic imagination, albeit for very different reasons. Against both sets of critics, Emilee Booth Chapman’s remarkable and timely new book Election Day : How We Vote and What it Means for Democracy makes a compelling case for the ballot box’s unique place in democratic theory as a site of collective agency among political equals. Chapman offers an invaluable framework for navigating the shifting character of the American voting system and the innumerable proposals for improving it. But at the same time, this essay argues that in face of American democracy’s moral failures, Election Day reveals as much about the limits of well-ordered elections as it does their democratic promise.

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Essay on Election and Democracy for Students and Children

500 words essay on election and democracy.

A democratic government is said to be the best kind of government. It ensures the active participation of the people where the citizens get the chance to choose their government. The candidate or party whom the people choose is through elections.

Therefore, we see how elections play a pivotal role in a democracy. The party which secures the highest number of votes in the election process forms the government for the next term. That is why we see how elections are greatly crucial for a democracy.

Election Process in a Democracy

The election process in a democracy is usually similar in most ways. It is responsible for shaping the government of a democracy. Elections are conducted at regular intervals. In a democracy like India, they take place every five years. A committee is set to monitor the whole electoral procedure from the voters’ list to the results.

During the election process, various parties enroll themselves to contest in the elections. After thorough campaigning and more, dates are decided on which voting happens. People turn up in great numbers to cast their votes to make their candidate or party win.

Most importantly, in a democracy, the election process follows the method of a secret ballot. It is very beneficial for maintaining the fairness of the contest. Moreover, they also protect the privacy and safety of the voter as they are not liable to answer to anyone regarding their vote. It is one of the fairest ways to decide who wins the election.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Importance of Election in Democracy

The election procedure just shows how important and crucial it is for a democracy. The process is very grand and takes place on a great level. As it requires a lot of work and attention, there are certain people who specifically get the responsibility of handling and managing the entire process.

Elections form the basis of democracy. They are very important as they help the people in getting a chance to contest the elections. It allows people to get a fair chance to work for their country and make a brighter future. Moreover, it also ensures that any person can become a part of the government without any discrimination on the basis of caste, creed, sex, religion or more.

Most importantly, elections entrust a big responsibility on the shoulders of the citizens. It helps in empowering the citizens of a democracy. You see that when a person earns the right to vote, they choose their government responsibly as they realize the power that lies within their hands.

Above all, the election process ensures fair play. They are a great way of preventing dishonest people from rigging the procedure. In short, fair and regular elections are a vital part of a democratic government. Similarly, they empower the common citizens of the nation to elect their government and also change it after a period of time to ensure everyone works for the best in the country.

FAQs on Election and Democracy

Q.1 What is the election process in a democracy?

A.1 The election process takes place at a regular period of time. People cast their vote to whomever they think id serving of being in power. Thus, the party with the majority of votes wins and serves the term.

Q.2 Why are elections important in a democracy?

A.2 Elections form the basis of any democracy. It ensures that the power resides within the people. It also ensures fair play and stops any unfair means from taking place. They are important to strengthen the essence of democracy.

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About This Mini-Lesson

Elections are essential to democracy. They allow people to select their political leaders and then to hold them accountable. But organizing a free and fair election—which accurately measures the will of the people—is more complex than it might seem, as is managing a peaceful transfer of power after the election. In the past 100 years, only about half of the world’s countries have managed to transfer power peacefully to a new leader after holding an election. It is important to note that despite past and current challenges around voting rights in the United States, as well as false accusations of voter fraud , the country has successfully managed 12 peaceful transitions of power since the beginning of the twentieth century. 

This mini-lesson uses our Free and Fair Elections explainer to help students reflect on the importance of elections; define the phrase “free and fair elections;” learn about the strengths and weaknesses of electoral systems in their region; and consider the actions that individuals, journalists, and politicians can take to strengthen democratic institutions. Each activity can be used on its own or taught in any combination best suited to your students.

What’s Included

This mini-lesson is designed to be adaptable. You can use the activities in sequence or choose a selection best suited to your classroom. It includes:

• 3 activities 
• Student-facing explainer

Save this resource for easy access later.

Why Do Elections Matter? (15 minutes)

Ask students to reflect on the importance of elections in their journals using the following prompts:

• Why do countries hold elections?
• Why do elections matter to you and your community?

When students have finished writing, ask for volunteers to share aspects of what they wrote with the class. Then, ask your students:

• What are the common themes you heard in your classmates' responses?
• What, if anything, would you add to your journal responses after hearing your classmates’ ideas?

What Is a Free and Fair Election? (20 minutes)

Either distribute the Free and Fair Elections explainer or project it for students to see. Read through the headings of the eight aspects of a free and fair election. Ask your students:

• What is one aspect you found surprising or interesting and why?
• Why do you think this aspect is an important part of ensuring an election is free and fair?
• How could it affect an election if this aspect is not present?

Once students have finished, ask them to share which aspect they chose and a summary of their reflection in small groups of 2-3 students.

Related Materials

• Explainer Free and Fair Elections

How Well Does Your State or Region Meet the Requirements of Free and Fair Elections? (35 minutes)

Note:  To complete this activity, students will need to have access to the internet for conducting research.

Share the Free and Fair Elections explainer with your students. Use the Jigsaw teaching strategy to help your students analyze the information in the explainer. Divide your students into seven “expert” groups, and assign each group one of the following sections of the explainer: 

• “Citizens are able to register to vote”
• “Voters have access to reliable information”
• “Citizens can run for office”
• “All voters have access to a polling place or another method of voting”
• “People can vote free from intimidation”
• “Voting is free from fraud”
• “Ballots are counted accurately and the correct results are announced”

Each group should write down a summary of their section in their own words and then research and brainstorm answers to the “ask yourself” questions at the end of their section.

Then, place students into “teaching” groups with seven members, one from each “expert” group. Ask each student to present the summary that they wrote in their “expert” group about their section and their answers to the “ask yourself” questions. After each student presents, their group mates should ask them any questions they may have about their point. 

Finally, ask students to choose one or more of the following prompts to reflect on, either in their journals or an exit ticket .

• What can I or groups in my community do to make sure elections are free and fair?
• What can the media do to make sure elections are free and fair?
• What can politicians do to make sure elections are free and fair?
• Teaching Strategy Jigsaw: Developing Community and Disseminating Knowledge
• Teaching Strategy Exit Tickets

Materials and Downloads

Explore the materials, free and fair elections, additional resources, related facing history resources & learning opportunities, voting rights in the united states, fostering civil discourse: difficult classroom conversations in a diverse democracy.

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