The government. It's all about politics and stuff, isn't it? Old men in suits shouting at each other. They haven't got a clue about real life and real people. Politics is nothing to do with us. Or is it?
Aims
To understand that there are differences in the ways countries are run
To understand that the differences between the ways countries are run are related to political systems
Objectives:
To distinguish between the main political systems
To compare the different political systems
To understand that rights are often linked to political systems
You're probably bored of seeing politicians making speeches on television. However, in between all the squabbles and scandals, Members of Parliament (MPs) in the government have important work to do. If they don't do it well, you'll soon hear about it.
Aims
To understand how the UK system of government works
To understand how ordinary individuals can contribute to political decisions
Objectives:
To know the different parts of the British system of government
To work collaboratively on a research project using different media
When you think of laws, what do you think of? Punishments, police, criminals? Laws aren't just there to stop bad things from happening. They can also help people sort out disagreements, protect people from dangerous situations and allow people to live their lives as they want to.
Aims
To understand how the UK system of government works
Objectives:
To consider why laws are needed
To present the law-making process in a creative and imaginative way
To think about what would happen if law and order broke down
Local government deals with what's happening on your very own doorstep. Parliament and the government deal with the country as a whole and international goings on.
Aims
To understand the purpose of local and regional government
Objectives:
To examine the role of ordinary people in local decision-making
To know how local and regional government works
Keywords:
councillor
town hall
council MSP
local government
regional government
mayor
youth assembly
Resources:
Peer-assessment sheets
'Regional and Local Government' section of the ‘Who Rules?’ website
Television, radio, the internet, newspapers and magazines, adverts and music. What have the media got to do with politics? You'd be surprised. The media probably have more influence and control over our lives than anything else.
Aims
To understand the influence the media have over the political views and opinions of people
Objectives:
To consider the uses and purpose of the media
To discuss the possible dangers and misuse of the media
To examine how the law protects people from media intrusion
To explain how the government uses the media to attract and keep voters
At last! It's time for people's voices to be heard. If you don't like what the government has done, vote for someone else. If you want to support the government and get others to support it too, get out there and campaign! Election time is pretty busy for political parties. From the moment campaigning starts to the last minute of voting, they are trying to get your vote.
Aims
To understand how elections work
Objectives:
To examine voting systems and consider alternatives to first past the post
To consider the purpose of party political broadcasts
To know the main political parties in the UK
To examine differences and similarities between the main political parties in the UK
