Cadettes
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LIFE SKILLS
Democracy for Cadettes Badge Activity
Who Represents You?
Explore women’s representation in Congress—past and present.
Activity Details
Time needed: 30–45 minutes
Materials needed:
Computer, tablet, or phone with internet access
Setup:
The legislative branch, or Congress, is the branch of the United States government that creates laws. Two groups make up Congress: the House of Representatives and the Senate.
You are going to explore women’s representation in Congress—past and present!
Activity:
Whether you realize it or not, you probably have some political issues you’re passionate about. Maybe you’re determined to spread the word about climate change, or maybe you want to improve the lives of your city’s homeless veterans. If you want to make a difference, you can start by fully understanding how your government works. Informed citizens are changemakers!
With help from an adult, find out how many women are currently serving in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Compare this year to previous years. How have things changed?
Now find out how many men are serving in the Senate and the House of Representatives. Compare this year to previous years. How have things changed?
To help you think about those numbers, draw a see-saw. Draw circles on one side representing the number of men currently serving in Congress. Draw circles in another color on the other side to represent the women.
How do you think we could increase the number of women serving in Congress? Discuss your ideas with your friends or family.
Reflection
Think about what you just did:
- What was the most surprising thing you discovered?
- Would you want to be a member of Congress? Why or why not?
- How can you share what you’ve learned with other girls?
Troop Leaders: The instructions for all badge steps are available free of charge in your Girl Scout Volunteer Toolkit.
Girl Scout Activity Zone activities have been adapted from existing Girl Scout programming.
Adapted from Step 3 of the Democracy for Cadettes badge. Purchase the badge booklet to complete all requirements and earn the badge.
Made possible by a generous grant from the Citi Foundation.
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