Voting By Mail

polling station poster on clear glass door
Type: Vocabulary
Originally published on October 13, 2020 and last updated on July 18, 2023

The topic of voting by mail presents an opportune subject for English learners to enhance their language skills. Exploring this electoral practice encourages learners to engage with relevant vocabulary related to politics, elections and civic participation. Furthermore, comprehension of its advantages and challenges fosters a deeper understanding of democratic processes.

By delving into this topic, English learners can strengthen their language proficiency while gaining valuable insights into the democratic functioning of societies worldwide.

Instructions:
Go through the vocabulary below with your students and ask them to try and use this vocabaulry where possible when discussing the different conversation questions.

Voting By Mail Review

Voting by mail, a consequential and widely debated electoral practice, allows citizens to cast their ballots remotely, circumventing the traditional in-person voting method. Advocates hail this system for its accessibility, offering convenience to voters, particularly those with physical limitations or living in remote areas. Yet, critics voice concerns over potential security breaches and voter fraud, raising questions about the integrity of the electoral process.

The discussion around voting by mail intensifies during contentious elections, emphasising the need for comprehensive scrutiny and legislative measures to uphold democratic values while ensuring inclusivity and fairness in the electoral landscape.

Useful Vocabulary

Try and use the following vocabulary when answering the question. Click to look up the definition in the dictionary

  • fraud (noun)
  • prevent (verb)
  • argue (verb)
  • take advantage (idiom)
  • fraudulent (adjective)
  • come down to (phrasal verb)
  • unfair (adjective)
  • in favour (idiom)

Conversation Questions

My Image
  • What are your thoughts on voting by mail? Do you think it's a good idea or not?
  • Have you ever voted by mail or known someone who has? How was the experience?
  • Would you prefer to vote in person or by mail? Why?
  • In what situations do you think voting by mail is especially beneficial?
  • What challenges might arise with voting by mail, and how can they be addressed?
  • How do you think people can take advantage of voting by mail to cheat in the election?
  • How can governments ensure the security and integrity of the voting by mail process?
  • Should voting by mail be available only for certain groups, such as elderly or disabled individuals, or for everyone?
  • How might the accessibility of voting by mail differ between urban and rural areas?
  • Is voting by mail a viable solution for citizens living abroad to participate in their home country's elections?
Gregory
This conversation topic was prepared by Gregory

Gregory is a qualified TEFL teacher who has been teaching English as a Foreign Language (ESL) for over a decade. He has taught in-person classes in Spain and to English learners around the world online.