1. Introduction Activity What are the five most important traits or characteristics you would expect to find in a presidential candidate? Write your list on a sheet of paper.

2. Next Step Share your list with a partner, then we will share as a class. Are your lists similar or different? Why?

3. Do you know anyone with these traits?

4. Lincoln Reading The following is a letter written by Abraham Lincoln to introduce himself as a presidential candidate. As you read: Highlight or underline important information Highlight or underline and place a question mark next to confusing or difficult text Circle words or terms you do not know Write connections or questions you have in the right hand column

5. As you read, Think about what Lincoln chooses to share about himself. What is different from what you would expect to hear from someone running for president today? Share this with a partner and jot down some ideas in the right hand column.

6. Exit Ticket Write your impression of Lincoln based on this letter. Does he meet your expectations of a presidential candidate? Why or why not?

7. Obama and Romney Biographies

8. The following are biographies of Obama and Romney taken directly from their websites. As you read: Highlight or underline important information Highlight or underline and place a question mark next to confusing or difficult text Circle words or terms you do not know Write connections or questions you have in the right hand column

9. Also Highlight or underline any evidence you find in the Obama and Romney biographies that support your 5 characteristics of a presidential candidate.

10. Exit Ticket How is the information Romney and Obama shared different from Lincoln’s biography?