One of a series of teacher-developed curriculum guides designed to encourage student participation and involvement in important social issues, this secondary level guide helps 7th through 12th grade English and social studies educators teach about the election process. An introductory section suggests practical considerations, means of enlisting support, and tips for using role-playing, simulation, and debate in the classroom. Suggestions for a brainstorming activity and three writing activities are presented in the first two sections. The next section emphasizes the role of voting in our society. By focusing on the two-party system, the nominating process, the role of the electoral college, campaign financing, and the language of politics, activities in the fourth section help students understand the U.S. system of representative government. A fifth section deals with issue selection, outside speakers, methodological belief, political demography, the gender gap, and political candidates. Next, students examine influences of the media by analyzing campaign ads, discussing ways that politicians use photo opportunities, and considering the media's influence on election outcomes. The seventh section presents role-playing activities including mock campaign strategy sessions, a mock press conference, and a political debate. The final sections present election and post-election activities. Appendices include a list of Congressional districts in which League of Women Voter debates were held during the fall of 1984, a list of press release guidelines, suggested election issues for students, and a reading on the language of politics. (LH)