Introduction

Elections are a cornerstone of the democratic process, and they are our third of four linkage institutions in this course. In theory, elections allow the American people to make their voices heard. However, many critics argue that the modern electoral system, especially at the national level, effectively disenfranchises many Americans from the outcome of elections. In this unit, we will investigate how the system works, how and why people vote (and don't vote), and the effect of monied interests on the campaign process.

Important Files

Chapter 10 Study Guide - Electing Leaders
File Size: 33 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File
Chapter 11 Study Guide - The Political System
File Size: 30 kb
File Type: pdf
Download File

Class Links

C-Span video contest

Homework Assignments

Assignment #1: A Two-Party System

  • Read and take notes on chapter 10, section 1
  • Chapter 10 study guide questions 1-7
  • Key terms 1-8

Assignment #2: Political Party Organization

  • Read and take notes on chapter 10, section 2
  • Chapter 10 study guide questions 8-11
  • Key terms 9-10

Assignment #3: The Right to Vote

  • Read and take notes on chapter 10, section 3
  • Chapter 10 study guide questions 12-16
  • Key terms 11-16

Assignment #4: Nominating and Electing Leaders

  • Read and take notes on chapter 10, section 4
  • Chapter 10 study guide questions 17-21
  • Key terms 17-21

Assignment #5: Shaping Public Opinion

  • Read and take notes on chapter 11, section 1
  • Chapter 11 study guide questions 1-5
  • Key terms 1-4
  • Finish propaganda activity from class if needed (Google Classroom)

Assignment #6: Interest Groups

  • Read and take notes on chapter 11, section 2
  • Study guide questions 6-9
  • Key terms 5-8

Assignment #7: Taking Part in Government

  • Read and take notes on chapter 11, section 3
  • Study guide questions 10-14
  • Key terms 9-10

Assignment #8: Study for the test

  • Review your study guides, notes, and handouts for this unit
  • Bring notes and study guides to class to turn in

Paul Sargent Makes History