What is Democracy?
This scheme of work consists of three lessons on democracy, helping young people better understand how decisions are made in their communities.
What is Democracy Part 1 - What is a General Election?
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.
By the end of the lesson pupils will be able to:
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.
This lesson forms the first part of a three-part unit on democracy.
What is Democracy Part 2 - Local and Central Government
In this lesson created by the team at Young Citizens, pupils learn about the function of central and local government and the difference between MPs and local councillors. Pupils explore the job of parliament, taking a look at the role of the House of Commons and the House of Lords. Pupils explore a range of issues faced by citizens and decide which political representative is best placed to help. They then go on to consider the ways that they can participate in our democracy, and finally apply and consolidate their learning by designing a new political party and voting for a candidate to stand for election.
By the end of the lesson pupils will be able to:
Explore the role of central and local government;
Describe what happens in parliament;
Identify different ways they can make their voices heard by key decision makers in their area.
This lesson forms the second part of a three-part unit on democracy.
What is Democracy Part 3 - Why Do We Have Laws?
Pupils explore why we need laws and how they are made. Finally, pupils consider what new laws they would like to see introduced and how to make their voices heard by those in positions of power.
This lesson forms the third part of a three-part unit on democracy.