Lesson Plan
National First Ladies' Library

So! You Want to Start Your Own Political Party?

For Teachers 7th - 8th
Students examine the emergence of third parties in American politics during the first half of the 19th century. Working in groups, they research a Third Party and determine why the party was founded as well as who were instrumental in...
Website
PBS

Now With Bill Moyers: Politics and Economy: Election 2004: Third Parties

For Students 9th - 10th
NOW looks at the third parties, the candidates, and platforms, in October, 2004, for the 2004 Presidential election. Biographical information and video discussions can be found on this page.
Website
Other

Reform Party National Committee

For Students 9th - 10th
The official homepage of the Reform Party of the United States provides its platform as well as current news. The Reform Party is a diverse populist party with a moderate platform.
Website
Other

The Natural Law Party of the United States of America

For Students 9th - 10th
The homepage of the Natural Law Party of the United States provides its platform, relevant news, and many informational resources.
Website
Other

America First Party

For Students 9th - 10th
The official homepage of the America First Party provides information about its platform and politics. What the party finds newsworthy is also revealing.
Unit Plan
Annenberg Foundation

Annenberg Learner: Democracy in America: Political Parties: Mobilizing Agents

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This unit examines the significance of political parties in American politics, highlighting their functions, differences, and influence on the public for political decision making. Offers video, readings, web resources, and activities.
Activity
Cornell University

Cornell University: Library: Get Out the Vote: Campaigning for the u.s. Presidency

For Students 9th - 10th
An examination of the process of campaigning and electioneering through partisan artifacts, symbols and ballots in ten featured elections.
Activity
PBS

Pbs Online News Hour: Natural Law Party Platform

For Students 9th - 10th
"The Natural Law Party has an action plan to revitalize America". This site provides with the issues and platform on many different issues for the Natural Law Party in the United States.
Website
University of Virginia

Miller Center at Uva: u.s. Presidents: Andrew Jackson: Campaigns and Electiions

For Students 9th - 10th
Scroll through this article to the Campaign and Election of 1832. Find out who ran against Andrew Jackson and what political parties were involved.
Activity
Other

Copernicus Election Watch: History of the Parties

For Students 9th - 10th
This site has a great timeline that tracks the history of the Democratic, Republican, and some Independent Third Parties. Also some excellent links at the bottom of the page.