learning objective

Module III – Examine the contribution of individual and group participation in the American political process

Chapters 6, 7, 8, and 9

Chapter 6

1. Identify the factors of political socialization leading to party identification including demographic characteristics and focusing events.

2. Identify appropriate polling techniques such as sample size, framing effects, and margin of error.

3. Explain the conditions for the public to guide government.

4. Identify voter trends including turnout.

Chapter 7

5. Define mass media.

6. Explain the evolution of media types in relation to public interaction with the government.

7. Identify the relationship between the media and the government regarding content decisions and influencing the policy agenda.

Chapter 8

8. Describe the phases of the election process, including a primary and the types of primaries, a convention, a run-off, and a general election.

9. Distinguish between a “Political Action Committee” (PAC), including a “super PAC” and a 527 group.

10. Discuss basic components of campaign finance law.

11. Demonstrate the process of the Electoral College.

Chapter 9

12. Define an interest group and identify examples.

13. Define a lobbyist.

14. Describe advantages and disadvantages of interest groups.

15. Discuss the role of third parties in the U.S political system.

16. Describe the history of the political parties in the United States.

17. List the functions of political parties including organization, platform, leadership, and pursuit of legislative priorities.

18. Distinguish the fundamental differences between the major parties.

19. Explain partisanship.

20. Define a split-ticket and straight-ticket voter.

21. Compare and contrast interest groups and political parties.