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He’d tried it in 1976 and lost, but in 1983, Brian Mulroney finally won the leadership of the federal Progressive Conservative Party on the fourth ballot. He had been criticized in the past for running a slick campaign; this time he kept it quiet and simple.

Encourage students to discuss what they know about leadership campaigns or about other races to be a leader, such as for mayor or for school council. Have them brainstorm the kind of promotional material they expect to see for a campaign, and what people might want to know about the candidates before voting.

Students will create a campaign leaflet promoting Brian Mulroney for leader of the federal Progressive Conservative Party in 1983. Their leaflet should include background information about Mulroney, his stand on the issues of the day, and his plan to implement his policies. Students should also consider various aspects of design such as layout, colous, visuals, font styles, size of print, slogans, logo, and so on.

Display student work in the classroom. Discuss with students how political promotional material can affect public opinion.

Ask students to write a paragraph to describe the impact of a classmates’ campaign leaflet. Ask students to discuss high impact leaflets and examine why. Students may consider how current campaign strategies have evolved in comparison to those utilized back in 1983.