Political Spectrum Socialist to Conservative: Handout, Sort & Research

Want to teach your students about the political spectrum, but don't know where to start? This comprehensive lesson introduces the idea of the political spectrum (left vs. right), the basic values for each side, and common political values in any region.

Here is a simple introduction to the political spectrum and political beliefs that can apply to any country or region.

It includes:

- A handout that shows the names of left and right kinds of government (Communist, Socialist, Liberal, Moderate, Conservative, Right Wing, Fascist) and their main beliefs about the economy, social programs, moral issues, values, progress, and human nature.

- A sorting task (cut and paste) of political beliefs on crime and punishment, social programs, the economy, abortion, guns, freedom of expression and more. Students cut out the 12 statements and sort 6 to the left and 6 to the right. Then they try to think of (or research) some beliefs that would fall more to the centre.

- A research graphic organizer for local political parties (municipal, state/provincial or federal in any country). The teacher can assign what level of government students should research. Then they find 2-3 local political parties at that level and see their stance on issues like the economy, moral issues, social programs, progress, and crime. Finally, they can decided where on the political spectrum they think each party should fall.

- A reflection with questions to get students thinking about this way of classifying political parties. Does it sow division or create harmony? Does it apply accurately to the parties they researched? Does it match well with their own personal beliefs?

What's Included:

5 page PDF: Title Page, Handout, Cut and Paste Activity, Local Political Party Research, Reflection

Grades to Use With:

This lesson is designed for students in grades 7-12, high school special education, or adult education classes.

If you find this political lesson useful, check out my other lessons! Search for Grace Under Pressure.