Teaching Third Parties

In the United States, two major parties dominate the political system: the Democrats and the Republicans. However, third parties also play a significant role in the electoral process. Third parties in the US election system offer alternative viewpoints, challenge the status quo, and provide voters with additional choices. So, it is crucial to include teaching third parties when students learn about the political system. It is vital they understand that it is essential to pay attention to each person running versus just the dominant two. Thankfully, the Third Party Lesson includes key information and exciting activities! 

Teaching Third Parties

History of Third Parties 

When teaching third parties, students will benefit from seeing examples. For instance, they can learn about the Populist Party, the Progressive Party, and the Libertarian Party. These will all allow them to see how long third parties have been around and their political agenda. 

Importance of Third Parties 

Using the Third Party Lesson helps students see the significance of third parties. When teaching third parties, students often feel the voices do not matter. They think only Democrats and Republicans are important. However, this all changes when learning about third parties. 

Students will see how third parties allow everyone to have a voice and advocate for specific issues. In many ways, they represent marginalized groups who have an important message to share. So, they bring new ideas and perspectives to the political stage. Since they often challenge the ideas of the Democrats and Republicans, they often sway those political agendas. Since the Democrats and Republicans both want to win, they often have to address key issues presented by the third parties. This often includes ideas they would ignore but no longer can, with the third parties raising awareness. While third parties have not seen great success in an election, they make a significant splash in what ideas and values the Democrats and Republicans speak on. 

Teaching Third Parties

Third Party Lesson 

There is so much to include when teaching third parties. So, this two-day, 55-minute lesson is full of amazing lessons and activities! Students will analyze the U.S. government critically while understanding the importance and power of third parties. 

Students will learn about caucus versus primaries as they begin to understand how third parties work. Additionally, they will learn about swing states and then dive deep into third parties. They will even write an argumentative essay on third parties. This is a great way for them to show their understanding while arguing about their impact. 

Honestly, teaching third parties always sparks great discussion in the classroom. Students are eager to share their thoughts with each other! 

Teacher Resources 

One of the best parts about the Third Party Lesson is how quick it is to implement! It includes all the handouts needed to take notes during the slides, video URLs, and answer keys. It even includes lesson plans for both days!

Honestly, students cannot learn about the U.S. political system without understanding the role of third parties. While they do not see much electoral success, they do impact swing votes and what Democrats and Republicans are addressing on their agenda. Thankfully, the Third Party Lesson contains amazing activities and content when teaching third parties! 

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With 15 years of experience teaching government, U.S. history, sociology, and AP government in New York and Pennsylvania, Melissa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to students and teachers all over the world. She is also a certified AP U.S. Government grader for the College Board. Melissa proudly calls Wooster, Ohio, home and is a dedicated mother of two active boys and a supportive wife to a lacrosse coach.

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