Democratic Deficit: Does Your Vote Count?

Welcome: Democratic Deficit: Does Your Vote Count?
Description: Canada has been electing its members of parliament using the same simple plurality system since the inception of Canadian democracy. Proponents of Simple Plurality, or First Past the Post (FPTP), argue that Canadians prefer the current system because it is user-friendly, and straightforward. Opponents argue that simple plurality fosters inaccuracy and misrepresents who Canadians are voting for. Students will learn how the current system works (FPTP), and understand the alternatives like Proportional Representation (PR). This is a hot topic that constantly leads to debates, especially when trying to solve the problem of declining voter turn out.
Grade Level: 9-12
Curriculum: Social Studies
Keywords: politics, elections, electoral system, Canada
Author(s): Matthew Matchett