Political Parties - Civics SOL: Functions, Similarities, & 3rd Parties

Political Parties - Civics SOL: Functions, Similarities, & 3rd Parties

This lesson teaches students about the role of campaign contributions and costs in America’s political system. Students will learn about how the rising costs of campaigns have changed the political landscape of the United States. Students will learn how this has required candidates to spend more time raising donations, limited the opportunity to run for political office, encouraged the development of PACs, and given increased influence to special interest groups. Students will also learn how rising costs have led to calls for campaign finance reform with limits on donations. While this lesson was designed for students taking the Civics SOL State Exam, it will work for any civics or U.S. government classes.

I would welcome feedback from any teacher on how to improve these videos or lessons: jeffraymond2002@yahoo.com.

This lesson includes:

• Completed lesson plan with step-by-step instructions
• PowerPoint presentation
• Worksheet
• Smartboard activity
• Flipped class video link
• Cooperative learning activity
• Bell ringers

Check out the YouTube video Political Parties - Functions, Similarities & Differences and Third Parties Influence that goes along with this lesson @ Mr. Raymond's Civics Academy YouTube channel:

https://youtu.be/t_WuQ9oOvro