Social Studies Video

Election 2016 Is a Real Civics Lesson for Students

By Carmen Rojas — August 9, 2016 6:06
Election 2016 Is a Real Civics Lesson for Students
This year's presidential campaign, with its heated rhetoric and reality-TV tone, presents a challenge for U.S. Government teachers. How are educators teaching the election? (August 9, 2016)
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For generations, educators have been teaching students about the role of government, their rights under the Constitution, and their civic responsibilities — lessons that are especially relevant during presidential election years.

But this year’s unruly campaign season, with its heated rhetoric and reality-TV tone, has challenged even seasoned educators to help young people make sense of the candidates’ messages. How are U.S. Government classes tackling the challenge?

Education Week correspondent Lisa Stark reports on one Maryland school, where the election season has fueled lively debate and critical analysis.

This video aired on PBS NewsHour on July 12, 2016.

Carmen Rojas
Carmen Rojas formerly was a Video Administration and Communications Assistant for Education Week.
Related Tags:
Civics Elections

This video also appeared on On Air: A Video Blog.

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