EPLS 101: Democracy and the American Electoral Process

Course Overview

The American electoral process is the focus of EPLS 101, introducing students to the history and fundamentals of American government and elections.

Topics include the foundation of U.S. democracy and governmental structures; the three branches of government; the roles of local, state, and federal elections; the differences between primary and general elections; an overview of political parties and independents; and modern-day considerations for the conscientious candidate.

Course Structure

Designed for students in grades 6–12, EPLS 101 consists of fourteen sequential lessons that combine instructional reading, guided topics, quizzes, and progress tracking. Together, these lessons build a practical understanding of the American electoral process, showing how American government, elections, and civic participation work together from the nation’s founding through the modern day. The complete lesson outline appears below.