How to Teach About the Political Party System Formation in the U.S.
Political parties consist of voters who organize to support certain issues, and support candidates for public office who will advance their political agenda. These parties enable voters to easily identify candidates who share their political values by allowing them to run for office under their party's affiliation. Teaching students about the formation of the U.S. political party system requires a thorough understanding of each party's history and political ideology. Teachers must adjust their lesson plans accordingly to fit the age of their students, while still covering the basic principles that differentiate the parties.
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Instructions
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Study the history and political ideology of each party you want to teach your students until you have a thorough understanding of each group. Being able to articulate what makes each party unique will give your students a better understanding of the political party system. Using visual aids that show party timelines, important leaders, and ideological differences will help your students grasp the difference between parties.
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Teach your students about the three branches of government and how the political party system influences each one. The Federalist party began when a group of legislators, who wanted a stronger central government, banded together to ensure their policies would pass through Congress. Demonstrating to students how party politics in the Legislative branch affects the Executive and Judicial branches will increase their understanding of government and the role the political party system plays in how laws are passed.
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Provide a historical perspective on the political party system from the beginning of U.S. history to show how parties function today. George Washington and Thomas Jefferson both stood against the formation of political parties, yet the parties formed despite their objections. Explain to students why political parties were first formed, why some parties fell apart, and the significance of both aspects on government today.
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Assign your students a project that requires them to research one party, then have them prepare an in-class report and presentation. Ask the students to describe their party's philosophy regarding government, explain why their party was originally formed, and choose to explain two major issues on which their party takes a stand that they can share with the class. Working on an independent project will help the students grasp the difference between the parties through study and will encourage in-class debate about party issues during presentations.
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Tips & Warnings
Internet study guides, lesson plans, and other such educational resources provide a strong foundation when preparing to teach students about the political party system.
References
- Photo Credit capitol image by Andrew Breeden from Fotolia.com
