September 15th is International Day of Democracy. Democracy grows strong when people make their voices heard through not only voting but taking part in public debate on issues vital to the country. This year bring democracy to the classroom by holding a student election.
You and your class can participate in the activities below or learn more about International Day of Democracy.
- Activity: International Day of Democracy
- International Day of Democracy website
- Elections…the American Way
- Trace Effects
- Trace Effects Chapter 2 comic book
- International Day of Democracy press kit
Social Media Activities
- What does democracy mean to you? Share your experiences with us with us on Facebook.
Classroom Activities
Public Debate: International day of democracy
Activity Level: Intermediate-Advanced
Activity Overview
Introduce students to the idea of class elections by playing Trace Effects Chapter 2 or reading the Trace Effects Chapter 2 comic book. As a class, read the Public Debate: International Day of Democracy reading to learn about class elections. Use this information to have students hold a class election. Before the election, candidates can give speeches and hold a debate to create an engaging speaking, listening, and notetaking activity for the entire class. After electing a class president have students share the results of their democratic process on the American English Facebook page!
Materials
- Trace Effects Chapter 2
- Trace Effects Chapter 2 comic book
- Public Debate: International Day of Democracy Reading (included in included in lesson plan below)
- Organizing a Debate: Guidelines handout (included in included in lesson plan below)
- Debate Speech Template (included in lesson plan below)
- Pen or Pencil
Downloadable Lesson Plan
About International Day of Democracy
What is democracy? Democracy has many forms but the most important part never changes, giving everyone a voice. When people engage in the democratic process they have a say in the decisions that influence their lives. Democracy can be found everywhere, from governments creating laws to friends deciding what game to play.
To celebrate democracy around the world in all its forms, the United Nations General Assembly has recognized September 15th as International Day of Democracy. This day celebrates the values of democracy as a way for everyone to participate in public discussions on what is important to them.
In honor of the day make your voice heard by engaging in your local community, discussing democracy with friends, or writing a letter on the importance of democracy. Finally be sure to make your voice heard by sharing what democracy means to you on the American English Facebook page!