Simulations
Simulations are a great way for students to learn a process by virtually performing it themselves. Simulation activities often feel like a game for kids; however, if the simulation is focused on a specific process, students can learn a great deal from them. Think of simulations as video games with an educational twist.
One such simulation that exists, for instance, is iCivics. This site allows students to work through various governmental processes such as running for office, managing local government, building infrastructure, and keeping citizens happy. Students earn achievements for different tasks completed along the way and a leader board motivates competitive learners. iCivics could potentially be a valuable learning tool in any civics classroom, but could also prove useful when students are learning how federal, state, and local governments work, or during election seasons.
There are also resources for teachers which include curriculum plans, lesson plans, and support materials.