Social Science · Class 10

Active learning ideas

Challenges to Political Parties

We've learned why parties are vital for democracy, but what happens when the parties themselves face problems? This topic takes a critical look at the internal challenges that weaken political parties and, in turn, our democracy.

• CBSE Learning Outcomes
• NCERT: Class 10 - Democratic Politics – II - Chapter 6

• 30–45 min
• Pairs → Whole Class
• 3 activities

Activity 01

• Case Study Analysis
• 45 min · Small Groups

Dynasty Debate

Organise a classroom debate on the motion: 'This house believes dynastic succession is the biggest threat to Indian democracy.' Students can research and present arguments for and against the motion, citing examples from Indian politics.

Analyse how dynastic succession undermines the principles of democracy within a party.

Facilitation Tip

Ensure students focus on the structural problem of opportunity, not on personal attacks against individual politicians.

What to look for

A 'Think-Pair-Share' activity where students discuss which of the four challenges they consider most harmful to Indian democracy and justify their choice.

• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Create
• Decision-Making
• Self-Management

Activity 02

• Case Study Analysis
• 40 min · Small Groups

Manifesto Mismatch

In groups, students analyse the election manifestos of two major national or regional parties. They compare promises on key issues like education, health, and employment to evaluate if they offer a 'meaningful choice' or are largely similar.

Explain the challenge of 'money and muscle power' in elections and its impact on political outcomes.

Facilitation Tip

Provide excerpts of manifestos to keep the activity focused and manageable within the class time.

What to look for

Write a letter to the editor of a newspaper expressing concern over one of the major challenges faced by political parties and suggesting two concrete reforms.

• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Create
• Decision-Making
• Self-Management

Activity 03

• Case Study Analysis
• 30 min · Pairs

Follow the Money Trail

Students research the declared assets of a few candidates from a recent election using data from the Election Commission or news portals. They can create a short presentation on the role of money in elections and discuss its potential impact.

Evaluate whether political parties offer meaningful choices to the voters in contemporary India.

Facilitation Tip

Guide students to reliable sources like the Election Commission of India website or reputable media analysis sites.

What to look for

Students use a simple rubric to rate their confidence in explaining each of the four main challenges, identifying areas where they need more clarity.

• Analyze
• Evaluate
• Create
• Decision-Making
• Self-Management

A few notes on teaching this unit

Begin by connecting the abstract challenges to concrete, relatable examples from current events or local politics. Use case studies or news clippings to illustrate concepts like 'dynastic succession' or 'money power'. Encourage critical thinking by asking students not just to identify problems, but also to debate the pros and cons of proposed solutions, fostering a nuanced understanding rather than simple cynicism.

Through these activities, students will be able to diagnose the key problems within Indian political parties and think like active citizens about potential solutions and reforms.

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Watch Out for These Misconceptions

• All politicians from political families are incompetent or corrupt.

  While dynastic succession poses a challenge to equal opportunity and internal democracy, it does not automatically mean an individual is incapable. The focus should be on the systemic problem of unfair advantage and closed leadership structures, rather than making blanket judgements about every individual's merit.

• All political parties are exactly the same, so it doesn't matter who you vote for.

  While parties may seem similar on some issues, especially when trying to attract centrist voters, there are often significant differences in their core ideologies, economic policies, and social priorities. A careful look at their history, leadership, and manifestos reveals these important distinctions that constitute a choice for voters.

• Only illegal 'black money' is the problem in elections.

  While unaccounted money is a major issue, the challenge of 'money power' also includes the influence of huge, legal donations from corporations and wealthy individuals. This can lead to policies favouring the donors, creating an unequal playing field, regardless of the legality of the funds.

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Methods used in this brief

• Case Study Analysis