Teach the kids about the primary elections where almost anyone can campaign for election. Kids can have others sign petitions to get themselves on the ballot. It will be necessary for the kids to say whether they are running as a Republican or a Democrat so that you will have two candidates in the end. Independents are allowed, but they will come into play later in the election process when it comes down to the official election. Students must follow the state primaries in their specific order, giving speeches along the way. The rest of the students must also register to vote and sign up as either Republican or Democrat so they can vote in their own primary elections.
After the campaigning is done in the primaries, it is time for the primary elections. Republican students will vote for which of the Republican candidates they think is the best option for them. The same is true for the Democrats. The candidates with the most votes in each group will run for president.
When the primary candidates for the elections are decided upon then it is time for each candidate to create a staff of people to help her write speeches, make the schedule and be the ears and eyes of the people to see what they really want in a president. This is also the time that the candidate will choose a running mate. You may want to have some discussion on this before the kids choose. Discuss things such as where is the presidential candidate weak and who would help her get more votes in that particular area. During the campaigning, staff members will make up posters encouraging classmates to vote for the best candidate. Candidates will give speeches on things that are important in the life of a 5th grader.
This is also the time when an Independent can come into play. Discuss with the class who is an Independent, what he stands for and why he would run without the backing of a major political party. Discuss also what can happen in elections when an Independent is running. For example, a strong independent can split up the vote of one party, making the other party's candidate the winner.
Set aside one day for elections. Set up the classroom so that it as closely as possible represents an official election location. Use simple paper ballots to vote. Students can visit the classroom to vote throughout the day as they have time, especially if they change classes. Count the votes. Both candidates need to have an acceptance speech prepared as well as a concession speech.