This free plan runs a mock election across one school week, each session about 30 to 40 minutes. Students learn the two votes, see how seats are shared out, form a coalition, test election advertising and finish with a secret class ballot. It works best in the advance voting window, 26 October to 6 November 2026, and stays strictly neutral between parties.
This free plan runs a mock election across one school week, each session about 30 to 40 minutes. Students learn the two votes, see how seats are shared out, form a coalition, test election advertising and finish with a secret class ballot. It works best in the advance voting window, 26 October to 6 November 2026, and stays strictly neutral between parties.
Monday: the two votes and the ballot paper.
Tuesday: MMP and the 5% threshold.
Wednesday: build a coalition to 61 seats.
Thursday: spot the election ad.
Friday: secret class ballot and results.
Read 'What's on the ballot?' together, then have students explain the left and right sides to a partner.
Use the MMP Lab to turn a pretend set of party votes into seats. Ask: what happens to a party on 4.9%?
In groups, use the Coalition Builder to reach 61 seats. Each group explains what they had to trade.
Use the media bias activity. For any ad, ask: who paid for this, and what does it want me to feel?
Run the Mock Election with a private booth (a cardboard box works). Use made-up parties if you prefer to keep real politics out of the room. Count the votes with two student scrutineers watching.
Do I have to use real parties?
No. Made-up parties work well and avoid any concern about politics in class.
Which year levels?
Years 5-10. Shorten each session for younger students.
Is it free?
Yes. Every activity is free, with no student accounts.