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In this unit, children learn about their local community and the local council, and find out how local democracy works and how they can contribute. They explore what constitutes the local community, and discover some of the significant factors that have contributed to its development over time. Children learn about local democracy and the roles of the local councillors, council and mayor, through enquiry and research, visitor exercises, outside visits, preparing and presenting speeches, and presenting their own points of view in discussions and debates. They begin to appreciate how the role of the local council differs from that of the national government. Where possible, children take part in a debate in the local council chamber on a topic of local interest. They learn the importance of discussing issues that concern them, and relate this experience to their discussion of issues in circle time, the class council and the school council.
The sections in this unit could be used in a different order. For example, preparing for and making a visit to the council chamber at the beginning of the unit could provide a context for the other activities.
The unit builds on the experience and skills developed through circle time and class discussions. It links with unit 1 'Taking part - developing skills of communication and participation' and unit 8 'How do rules and laws affect me?'. The activities can also be linked with English and with local studies work in geography and history. Some of these links are indicated in the 'Points to note' section.
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