Use this lesson with The Nixon-Khrushchev Kitchen Debate Narrative and the Richard Nixon, "Checkers" Speech, September 1952 Primary Source to have students analyze the impact television made on the perception of politicians in the 1950s and 1960s.

In this lesson, developed by the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and Library, students will answer the essential question: In what ways are voters persuaded to support a particular candidate?

Students will examine the September 26, 1960, debate between Senator John F. Kennedy and Vice President Richard M. Nixon to:

• analyze primary sources
• consider what makes a candidate a “winner” or “loser” in a debate
• determine what issues are important to them in an upcoming election
• select a candidate they think most aligns with their views of the issues
• watch a debate and evaluate the performance of the candidates
• write a memo to their chosen candidate giving him or her advice on how to improve his or her performance for a future debate.

Visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum and Library website to access the lesson and accompanying materials.