How do citizens take action in democratic and non-democratic societies?
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain some differences between taking action in democratic and non-democratic governments.
Key learning points
- In a democracy, citizens take action in many ways such as through protests and stunts.
- Action can be seen as civil disobedience in non-democratic societies.
- Some international organisations support citizens to take action.
Keywords
Action - practical steps designed to try to raise awareness or influence key decision-makers
Civil disobedience - the peaceful and deliberate breaking of certain laws, rules or policies to protest against something considered unjust or to highlight an issue and push for change
Common misconception
All citizens across the world are able to take action.
In some non-democratic countries taking action can be seen as civil disobedience and citizens can face punishment.
Teacher tip
The topic is sensitive as it involves issues of freedom, oppression and human rights. Pupils may relate personally and it is important to handle these discussions with care to ensure all pupils feel heard and respected.
Content guidance
Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
Depiction or discussion of sensitive content
Depiction or discussion of serious crime
Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is one key feature of a democracy that helps citizens stay informed?
Q2.In some non-democratic countries, is used to stop journalists from reporting certain news stories.
Q3.Why might a free press be used in a limited way in some democratic countries?
Q4.Why might censorship occur in non-democratic countries?
Q5.Which best describes a democracy?
Q6.How can the free press help people take action in a democracy?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What ways can citizens take action in a democracy?
Q2.Match the word to the correct meaning.
steps taken to influence change
the peaceful and deliberate breaking of laws as a way to protest
involves more hidden or dangerous actions
Q3.In some non-democratic countries, citizens may face for taking action.
Q4.What makes it easier for citizens to take action in democratic countries?
Q5.Which group is most likely to help citizens in non-democratic countries seek justice?
Q6. International supports citizens in non-democratic countries by raising awareness of violations and pressuring governments to respect human rights.
To help you plan your 10 citizenship lesson on: How do citizens take action in democratic and non-democratic societies?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 citizenship lesson on: How do citizens take action in democratic and non-democratic societies?, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 4 citizenship lessons from the How do democratic systems work around the world? unit, dive into the full secondary citizenship curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.