This computer program at the www.redistrictinggame.org allows students to learn about redistricting and gerrymandering associated with the U.S. House of Representatives. This third and final part is the most advanced stage. I have students work in groups and complete the form on the computer together, but this could easily be done individually if you have a 1:1 ratio of computers. It does not work if you are using an ipad as my school district provides students...you need computers.
Mission 3: Bi-Partisan Gerrymandering
a. Summarize our main goal:
b. What is the political make up of your district at the start of this activity?
Mission 3: Bi-Partisan Gerrymandering c. DESCRIBE how we attempted to make more equal voting districts? d. What is the political make up of your district at the end of this activity?
A. Did our plan meet with the approval of the state politicians?
B. Did our plan meet with the approval of the governor? C. Did our plan meet with the approval of the Court System? (checks and balances) D. If we failed in "C", what was the issue? E. How did we resolve this issue? Explain. F. Why is it helpful to have a "compact district"?
Analysis Question: Answer in 2-3 sentences
The state of Maryland would be better served if politicians would rezone the voting districts to provide a more fair representation of the state's political values.