AP Government students are taking a deep dive into the November 2000 presidential election through an assignment where they imagine that they themselves are a candidate running in it, making decisions about how to navigate certain steps in the campaign process and simulating the actions of candidates at the time. 

In class, students are introduced to a scenario question then given an article or video to watch in order to gain background information that will allow them to make a choice on how to approach the given scenario. 

“We usually get five minutes to find the best option,” senior Zaara Ahmed said. “I try to use both the real-life events and context we learned from the textbook and class to make a decision, alongside what I would realistically do if I was a presidential candidate.” 

Ahmed feels that the assignment is helping her better understand class material. 

“[Through the assignment], we get to learn how exactly data and public opinions are factored into the campaigning process of elections as well as the stages of campaigning, like October surprises ruining candidates’ reputations,” Ahmed said. 

For senior Neha Ramachandran, the assignment has not only helped her understand the course content better, but has also enriched her understanding of political science in general.

“I think it’s always good to apply knowledge to real life and see how it affects people on an every day level, especially for a political science class,” Ramachandran said. “In that sense the assignment has given me greater insight into how these political models affect everyday voters and also allows me to contextualize that to the broader political environment. As someone involved in a lot of programs that require deep understanding of politics and the current political environment, being able to apply concepts on a grassroots level is beneficial.” 

In AP classes, students often complete structured assignments such as this one, but they also do creative projects that offer them more free reign. Senior Madeline Sanders prefers doing creative projects, but sees the value in assignments like these too. 

“I prefer doing a creative project,” Sanders said. “Because it’s a bit more relaxing by adding creativity and fun, however both kinds of projects are useful for learning the material.”