What is a General Election? (Primary Ages 7-11) (English)

In this lesson created by the team at Young Citizens, pupils explore the meaning of ‘democracy,’ and the ways in which citizens can participate in democratic life in the UK. Pupils learn about the role of the Prime Minister, Members of Parliament and political parties, and how a general election works. They consider why it is important for citizens to be well informed before casting their vote, and how they can find out about the views of candidates and parties.

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By the end of the lesson pupils will be able to:

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➯ Describe what the word ‘democracy’ means;

➯ Explore what the role of the Prime Minister and Members of Parliament are;

➯ Identify what a political party is;

➯ Explain how a general election works and the importance of a secret ballot;

➯ Explore how they can find out about the views of politicians and why this is important.

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They consider why it is important for citizens to be well informed before casting their vote, and how they can find out about the views of candidates and parties. Pupils also look at the reasoning behind the secret ballot, and consider the voting age debate.

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The lesson contains an extension activity that introduces the class to women’s fight for the vote through the Suffrage Movement.