Municipalities Matter

Now that students have an understanding of the basic structure and functions of municipal government, they will learn about municipal elections and the individuals running for office. This will provide the opportunity for students to critically consider the role of a local politician. Much like Lesson 1, this lesson is grounded in the local and is largely research-based. Teachers may wish to adapt this lesson to ensure it is best-suited to student learning styles.

Suggested Curriculum Links
This lesson’s examination of municipal politicians considers the diversity within such groups. With this in mind, this lesson can achieve several Indicators within the following Outcomes:

• Power and Authority 8.3 and 8.4; and
• Interaction and Interdependence 8.1.

Procedure

1. Either lead class reading of Municipal Elections or share information relevant to the specific municipality or municipalities in which your students live.

KEY QUESTION

• 2012 marked the first time municipal councils were elected for four-year terms. Previously, the terms were for three years. What are the advantages and disadvantages of putting politicians in office for longer terms?

2. Assign Evaluating Council’s Performance. In addition to the central information hub created in Lesson 1, the Internet Archive is an excellent way to research now-defunct websites of candidates for their past stances and promises. As well, during election years, teachers may wish to
save campaign literature for approaching this activity in future years.

3. In election years, assign Learning about the Candidates. Given the sheer number of candidates in some municipalities and that some teachers will have students from several municipalities, teachers
may wish to approach this as a jigsaw activity.

4. As a summary discussion of either procedure 2 or 3, bring together class for discussion of prevalent local issues. Are these issues important to the students and their future in the community? How can more awareness be brought about of issues important to youth?

Further Exploration
5. Teachers wishing to pursue the concepts of municipal plebiscites and referendums should check out Direct Democracy: Plebiscites and Referendums.

6. For a discussion about the influence of third-party groups on municipal elections, check out this July 2024 episode of CBC Radio One's Blue Sky.