Fixing Elections

This passage discusses early problems with the Electoral College and how the 12th Amendment helped solve them. Originally, the runner-up became vice president, which caused conflict. In 1800, Jefferson and Burr tied, showing flaws in the system. The 12th Amendment required electors to vote separately for president and vice president. This change made elections smoother and political parties stronger.

Vocabulary grows with terms like “organized” and “separate.” Comprehension improves by following the problem-solution structure. Students use critical thinking by considering why the amendment was necessary. Grammar skills build through reading how past-tense verbs describe historical changes. Writing practice is reinforced when students explain how the amendment fixed issues.