Getting Political Station_MS
RU Ready Civics Fair Station Getting Political
For this station, learn more about getting political and use the materials to create your own Getting Political Station in your civics fair. Looking for templates for other stations? Click the link below!
Civics Fair HomeGetting Political: The Basics
The Getting Political Station, also known as political engagement, provides students with the skills to affect the makeup of government at the local, state, and federal level.
Despite limits to voting based on age or citizenship status, remaining involved in the political process ensures that elected representatives reflect the needs and beliefs of one’s constituents. Such participation allows for a more equitable and inclusive democracy.
Getting Political involves much more than voting. Encouraging others to vote, volunteering for a campaign, and even wearing a button supporting a candidate are other ways to play a part in determining who represents us in office.
The Getting Political Station provides opportunities to learn more about the following topics:
- Identifying Elected Officials
- Voting in Elections
- Supporting a Campaign
Identifying Elected Officials Resources
Who are my elected officials? What do they do?
Identifying Elected Officials templates allow students to learn who represents their community and interests at the local, county, state and federal levels.
The roles of these officials are explained in plain language in our downloadable Guide to Elected Roles in New Jersey (6-12)
Download templates for identifying the representatives who serve at the local, state, and federal levels.
- Local Officials Template (6-12)
- County Officials Template (6-12)
- State Officials Template (6-12)
- Federal Officials Template (6-12)
Downloadable video on how to identify your elected officials suitable for all ages
Voting in Elections Resources
Who can vote in elections and why do it?
Voting in Elections templates focus on sharing election information and deadlines for students who are eligible to vote in New Jersey.
New Jersey Eligibility Requirements
- At least 17 years old
- A United States citizen
- A resident of your county for at least 30 days before the election
- Not currently incarcerated as the result of a conviction of any indictable offense in NJ or any US state
Download templates for voting in elections in New Jersey:
For more information on registering and voting in all states and territories, visit the RU Voting National website.
Downloadable video on voting in NJ and the US for all ages
But What if I Can’t Vote Yet?
Younger students need to know that Voting in Elections is super important! Currently, according to US Elections Project (2022), white people aged 65 and up vote most often. However, Gen Z and Millenials are the most diverse generations in American history and, according to census data, these cohorts outnumber Boomers. Even though many students cannot vote quite yet, they can still learn about the process so that they’re [RU] Ready when they come of age. With younger generations preparing to dominate upcoming elections, it is crucial that young people take an active role in encouraging the participation of their peers (and even their parents!). The downloadable template below would make a great piece of schoolwork to hang on the family fridge!
Election Calendar Template (6-10)
Let’s Review! Getting Political Jeopardy! Game
Students can review what they learned (and learn some more!) using our free Getting Political Jeopardy! Game
Making your own civics fair? Here are the questions and answers to make your own Jeopardy Tri-Board.
Have computer access? Then try our interactive virtual version, ideal for classroom projectors.
Supporting a Campaign Resources
How can I support a campaign?
Supporting a Campaign templates provide examples of ways students can support a political campaign.
Download templates for supporting a campaign:
Getting Political Role Models
We believe that representation is important, and seeing young leaders making a difference can inspire students to do the same. See role models of young adults currently serving in elected office around the country.
Learn More about Getting Political Role Models of Engagement