Global Express
Edition 3: Vote, vote, vote -
democracy in the international context
Perhaps the young people in your classrooms do not see the relevance of elections for them. They may not understand the role of the fight for democracy in many of today's conflicts. By examining democracy in an international context, pupils will gain a greater insight into the importance of, and their role in, democracy.
Activity for the classroom: If I ruled the world

An activity for KS2.

Ask pupils to think of, or write, a list of what they would do if they ruled the world. The statements below could be used as a stimulus. Get them, in pairs or threes, to agree from their lists on the three most important things. In discussion with them, encourage them to argue and explain. Who would their rules be good for? For themselves or for other people? Which other people? Would it be a good thing if they could rule the world - and why/why not? How easy was it for them to agree on their three most important things? Do they think it would be easy to rule a country - never mind the world?

 If I ruled the world ...

These are some ideas. What would you do if you ruled the world? Would it be a good thing if you could rule the world? Why or why not?

I would stop the rainforests from being cut down.

Everyone would be able to watch TV whenever they liked.

Children wouldn't have to go to school.

I would help people who have less than I have.

I would have a big army to keep me in power.

I would ask my friends and family before making any rules.

Global Express
Edition 3: Vote, vote, vote -
democracy in the international context