Should first-past-the-post be scrapped? Lesson 1 of 6

Should first-past-the-post be scrapped?

This lesson is part 1 of a sequence of 6 lessons addressing the key enquiry: How can we become the future political leaders?

This first lesson focuses on exploring different voting systems and evaluating their fairness. Students begin by creating a mind map to assess prior knowledge about voting, which is followed by a teacher-led introduction to democracy and voting systems. Through guided discussions and a differentiated worksheet, students analyse various voting methods, including FPTP, and deepen their understanding through Q&A and group feedback.

The lesson concludes with a structured debate on whether FPTP should be replaced, encouraging students to present arguments, rebut counterpoints, and engage critically with the topic. A simulated referendum and takeaway task—researching arguments for and against lowering the voting age—allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Multiple assessment opportunities, such as debates, written tasks, and discussions, help track student progress and engagement throughout.

Students will work towards answering the following questions:

1. What voting systems can be used in elections?
2. Should first past the post be scrapped?

This unit of work forms part of our model core curriculum, which is exclusively available to School and College Members. Check out the full key stage 4 curriculum overview map here.