Blog Post
Elections in a Primary Classroom
Apr 07, 2022
By: Charlene Sacher
Grade 1/2 Multiage Teacher
General Vanier
Our grade 1-2 classroom had a great time learning about the election process in our classroom. Instead of looking at those running and the parties that they represent, we did the full process through choosing the name for our fish.
We began with students suggesting names and then we created nomination forms. Students had to go around and get signatures from those in the classroom to have their nominated name get on the ballot. I reminded students that this is not who they will necessarily be voting for, rather that they think that the name should be allowed on the ballot. Once the nominations where in the race was on. Students choose which name they would be campaigning for and began to create posters. They also orally gave speeches about why their name was the best name for our new red betta fish. Great speeches and rational was given such as “The fish should be Blue because it has a beautiful blue tank and likes the blue pencil crayon” or “We should name it Ruby as it is ruby red”.
After a few days of campaigning, we were ready for election day. Many students had jobs such as scrutineers and poll workers. We were able to access supplies from Elections Canada who provided us with ballot boxes and screens.
The students ended up learning so much about our election process, and even encouraged their families to vote (this was during our last federal election). And as I am sure you are all wondering…his name is MAX!
