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Candidate Evaluation

Lesson Plan

In this lesson, students evaluate hypothetical candidates by establishing and applying their own criteria for selecting public officials. Through a variety of activities, students assess political candidates based on their qualifications, experience, campaign speeches and campaign materials. Students track campaign promises, explore voting records and evaluate the legitimacy of information resources. The role of the media, fundraising and opinion polls in the electoral process is also discussed.

Check out our Candidate Report Card activity where students apply the skills they learn in this lesson to current political races. 

Got a 1:1 classroom? Download fillable PDF versions of this lesson's materials below!

Love this lesson? Explore all of our free election curriculum and teaching resources at our Election Headquarters. 

Teacher Resources

Get access to lesson plans, teacher guides, student handouts, and other teaching materials.

Candidate Evaluation - How to Evaluate Political Candidates Lesson Plan - 1
Candidate Evaluation - How to Evaluate Political Candidates Lesson Plan - 2
Candidate Evaluation - How to Evaluate Political Candidates Lesson Plan - 3

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See how it all fits together!

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