POLITICAL PARTIES
**Objective:**
- Understand the role and significance of political parties in a democratic system.
- Explore the functions, types, and challenges faced by political parties.
**Day 1: Introduction to Political Parties (60 mins)**
1. **Opening Discussion (15 mins):**
- Discuss students' understanding of political parties and their role in governance.
- Introduce the importance of political parties in democratic systems.
2. **Key Concepts (45 mins):**
- Define political parties and explain their essential functions in representing citizens, forming governments, and shaping policies.
**Day 2: Functions and Types of Political Parties (60 mins)**
1. **Lecture (20 mins):**
- Explore the functions of political parties, including representation, aggregation of interests, and recruitment of leaders.
- Discuss the distinction between national and regional parties.
2. **Group Activity (40 mins):**
- Divide students into groups and assign each group a specific function of political parties.
- Have groups present their findings, emphasizing real-world examples.
**Day 3: Two-Party and Multi-Party Systems (60 mins)**
1. **Lecture (20 mins):**
- Discuss the difference between two-party and multi-party systems.
- Explore the advantages and disadvantages of each system.
2. **Class Discussion (40 mins):**
- Engage students in a discussion on the merits and challenges of different party systems.
- Discuss the relevance of multi-party systems in diverse societies.
**Day 4: Challenges Faced by Political Parties (60 mins)**
1. **Lecture (20 mins):**
- Identify common challenges faced by political parties, such as internal conflicts, lack of internal democracy, and corruption.
- Discuss the impact of money and muscle power on political parties.
2. **Case Studies and Discussion (40 mins):**
- Present case studies illustrating challenges faced by political parties in different countries.
- Facilitate a discussion on potential reforms to address these challenges.
**Day 5: Role of Citizens and Reflection (60 mins)**
1. **Lecture (20 mins):**
- Discuss the role of citizens in strengthening political parties and the democratic process.
- Explore the significance of political awareness and participation.
2. **Class Discussion and Reflection (40 mins):**
- Engage students in a discussion on the responsibility of citizens in holding political parties accountable.
- Encourage reflections on the impact of informed and active citizenship.
**Assessment:**
- Evaluate students based on their participation in discussions, understanding demonstrated in activities, and any assignments or quizzes.
**Homework Assignment:**
Ask students to research and write a short essay on the history and evolution of a specific political party, highlighting its ideologies, key leaders, and impact on governance.
**Conclusion:**
Summarize the main concepts covered during the week, emphasizing the pivotal role of political parties in democratic governance. Encourage students to critically evaluate the functioning of political parties and consider their own role in shaping the political landscape.