Unit 5: Influence on Government
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary responsibility of the media in relation to the government?

  • To influence legislative decisions directly
  • To provide accurate information to the public (correct)
  • To promote government policies without question
  • To serve as a propagandist for political parties

In what way does the relationship between media and government impact democratic ideals?

  • It leads to government censorship of information
  • It undermines the citizens' trust in government
  • It enhances the effectiveness of lobbying efforts
  • It supports the formation of an informed electorate (correct)

Which resource can provide insight into the political platforms of various parties in 1880?

  • A 25-minute podcast from Civics 101
  • A Google Doc listing 84 values
  • A documentary on voter rights
  • A primary source newspaper article (correct)

What is the significance of the podcast 'Who Writes Bills' in understanding the legislative process?

<p>It provides a behind-the-scenes look at bill drafting (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the concept of an informed electorate?

<p>Individuals who critically analyze information from various sources (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elections took place in Alabama?

<p>2002 Gubernatorial Election (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which major influence on public policies includes considerations of economic stability?

<p>Debt reduction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which year corresponds to the General Election held in Virginia?

<p>1971 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary influence on how public policy is created and implemented?

<p>Interests and beliefs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which public policy concern is most closely associated with individual freedom?

<p>Limits on taxation (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which election occurred in Washington state in 2004?

<p>Gubernatorial Election (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which value is commonly debated in connection to climate change legislation?

<p>Environmental sustainability (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What activity should students engage in to explore values and beliefs related to law creation?

<p>Develop their own law (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary role of the media in relation to government?

<p>To act as a watchdog and expose corruption (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a government responsibility regarding the media?

<p>Regulating media content based on opinion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Freedom of Information Act provide?

<p>Access to public records and information from the government (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which agency is responsible for regulating communication in the United States?

<p>Federal Communications Commission (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a principle governed under the Code of Fair Information Practices?

<p>Ensuring accurate dissemination of personal data (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do regulatory agencies contribute to media responsibility?

<p>By enforcing laws that protect media rights and practices (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect does the media NOT have a responsibility to fulfill?

<p>Promote specific political agendas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of the media not fulfilling its responsibilities?

<p>Potential rise in government corruption (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of public policy does this unit primarily focus on?

<p>Creation and utilization of public laws (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following laws is explicitly mentioned in relation to public policy?

<p>Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following amendments is focused on promoting equality?

<p>Equal Rights Amendment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which historical event is mentioned alongside presidential elections?

<p>Prohibition and the Temperance Movement (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of excluding certain voices from media reporting?

<p>Misrepresentation of events (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term refers to the manipulation of electoral district boundaries?

<p>Gerrymandering (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which issue is not addressed as a focus for this unit?

<p>Voting and citizenship topics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method of communication is implied for students to express their understandings?

<p>Various forms of communication (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of general elections?

<p>They usually occur on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following types of elections specifically addresses the selection of political officeholders at various levels?

<p>Presidential elections (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which process allows voters to participate in selecting candidates before a general election?

<p>Caucuses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the functions of the Electoral College during a presidential election?

<p>Selects the president and vice president based on electoral votes. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which method of voting allows participants to cast their vote without being physically present at the polling place on Election Day?

<p>Absentee voting (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary purpose do primaries serve in the election process?

<p>To select delegates who will nominate candidates at the party conventions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following refers to an election that takes place when a politician is removed from office prior to the end of their term?

<p>Recall election (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of voter registration in the electoral process?

<p>It verifies voter eligibility and prevents fraud. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of interest groups in the two-party system?

<p>They lobby for specific issues that can influence legislation and policy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following groups would likely represent conservative values?

<p>National Rifle Association (NRA) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a Political Action Committee (PAC) primarily responsible for?

<p>Collecting and distributing contributions to candidates. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does 'dark money' refer to in the context of political finance?

<p>Political spending by organizations that do not disclose their donors. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies might interest groups use to influence Congress?

<p>Conducting research and presenting findings to lawmakers. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the nature of the two-party system in the United States?

<p>It often simplifies the electoral process for voters. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of Super PACs compared to traditional PACs?

<p>They can engage in independent political spending. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what way does self-reliance feature into political values and beliefs within the two-party system?

<p>It emphasizes individual responsibility in economic and social contexts. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Primary Election

A type of election where voters choose candidates to represent their political parties in a general election.

General Election

A process where registered voters select candidates for office, often through a secret ballot.

Electoral College

A group of electors from each state who formally elect the President and Vice President of the United States.

Straight-Ticket Voting

A method of voting where voters choose all candidates from the same political party by marking a single box on the ballot.

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Early Voting

A process that allows registered voters to cast their ballots before Election Day, typically in person at designated locations.

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Absentee Voting

A voting method where ballots can be submitted by mail or dropped off at designated locations before Election Day, particularly for those unable to vote in person.

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Same-Day Registration

A system where voters can register to vote on the same day they cast their ballot.

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Post-Election Audits

Procedures conducted after an election to ensure the accuracy and validity of the results.

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Informed Electorate

The ability of citizens to make informed decisions about their government based on accurate and reliable information.

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Media and Government Relationship

The relationship between the media and the government is important because both have a responsibility to inform the American public.

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Accurate Information

Accurate information is essential for a healthy democracy. Both the media and the government play a role in providing this information.

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Media's Role in Democracy

The media can influence public opinion and hold the government accountable for its actions. It can also be a platform for different viewpoints.

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Government's Role in Media

The government can use the media to communicate with the public, but it must be careful not to manipulate or censor information.

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Congressional Primary

The process of selecting a candidate to represent a political party in a general election.

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Gubernatorial Election

The process of electing a governor to lead a state.

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Influence in Government

The influence of interest groups and money on government policies.

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Major Influences on Government Policies

Factors that affect government policies and laws.

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Values and Beliefs

The values and beliefs that shape government policies and laws.

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Interest Groups

Groups that advocate for specific interests and push for policies that benefit their members.

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Money in Politics

The use of money to influence government policies, often through lobbying.

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Two-Party System

A system where two major political parties dominate the government, often leading to a binary choice for voters.

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Values

A set of principles or standards that individuals or groups believe are important for a just and fair society.

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Conservatives

People who believe in limited government intervention in the economy and social affairs, prioritizing individual liberty and free markets.

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Liberals

People who believe in a more active government role in addressing social and economic issues, promoting equality and social welfare.

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Political Action Committees (PACs)

Organizations that advocate for specific policies and candidates, raising funds and engaging in political activities.

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Super PAC

A type of PAC with fewer restrictions on fundraising, allowing them to spend unlimited amounts of money on elections.

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Dark Money

Money used in political campaigns that is not publicly disclosed or is difficult to trace, raising concerns about transparency and corruption.

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Media Responsibility

The media's responsibility to present unbiased and accurate information, helping the government understand public concerns and sharing information with the public.

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Government Responsibility

A government duty to protect the freedom of speech and press, provide access to information, and regulate media activities.

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Media as a 'Watchdog'

A crucial role of the media to expose corruption and raise public awareness about important issues.

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Freedom of Information Act

A legal right that allows the public to request government records and information.

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Federal Communications Commission (FCC)

A government agency that regulates the media and telecommunications industry.

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Federal Trade Commission (FTC)

A government agency that protects consumers and ensures fair competition in the marketplace.

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Equal Time Rule

A law that requires broadcasters to offer equal time to opposing candidates during elections.

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Code of Fair Information Practices

A set of guidelines that promote ethical information practices, ensuring privacy and security.

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Gerrymandering

The process by which geographic areas are divided into electoral districts, sometimes in a way that favors a particular party or group. This can influence election outcomes.

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HB2

A law passed by a state legislature that restricts access to public restrooms based on gender identity.

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Eminent domain

The power of the government to take private property for public use, even if the owner doesn't want to sell it, as long as they receive just compensation.

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Nuisance action

A legal claim made by one person against another for interference with their property rights or enjoyment of their property.

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What is the Fourth Amendment?

The right of people to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government.

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What is the Eighth Amendment?

The right of people to be free from cruel and unusual punishment by the government.

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What is the Fourteenth Amendment?

The right of people to equal protection under the law. This means the government cannot discriminate against individuals based on certain characteristics.

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What is the First Amendment?

The right of people to free speech and expression, even if these opinions are unpopular or controversial.

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Study Notes

Unit 5: Influence on Government

  • This unit examines the role of political parties, the election process, geopolitical/environmental factors influencing government, interest groups, and the media's role in shaping public information.
  • The United States electoral process is based on a two-party system.
  • Third parties influence national elections and reflect the will of the people.
  • Geopolitical and environmental factors affect citizen participation and political platforms.
  • Money, interest groups, and lobbying influence public policy.
  • Public opinion is influenced by various factors, including interest groups, political values, and PACs.
  • Political parties adapt based on voter preferences and their platforms may change.
  • Voters are responsible for shaping the agendas and beliefs of political parties, directly influencing public policy
  • The Electoral College is part of the presidential election process in the US.
  • Accurate information from all sources is essential.

Misconceptions to Address

  • Political parties hold unchanging beliefs, yet they change based on voter preferences.
  • Average citizens do not influence political parties. Individuals and voters heavily influence political parties' beliefs.
  • Understanding the government's workings is unimportant. A well-informed public is central to a functioning democracy.

Focus NCSCOS/Essential Standards - Objectives

  • Values and beliefs influence public policy and laws.
  • The two-party system shapes the political landscape.
  • Media and government share responsibility for informing the public.
  • Elections' effectiveness at the national, state, and local levels.
  • Geopolitical and environmental factors affect voting in various regions.

Big Ideas

  • Multiple perspectives exist on effective election methods; Political parties representing similar interests unite citizens.
  • Elections allow citizens to shape policy via interest groups and political values.

Unit Essential Questions

  • How effective is the US election process?
  • What major factors influence government policies?
  • What are credible media and government sources of information?

Essential Vocabulary

  • political party
  • political landscape
  • midterm election
  • primary election
  • ballot
  • precinct
  • geopolitics
  • electorate
  • Electoral College
  • popular vote
  • interest group
  • policy
  • stability
  • third party
  • runoff election
  • caucus
  • convention (political)
  • recall (election)
  • straight ticket
  • redistricting
  • gerrymandering
  • initiative
  • disenfranchisement
  • Political Action Committee (PAC)

Key Vocabulary (from prior courses)

  • policy (8th grade)

Enrichment Vocabulary

  • stability
  • third party
  • runoff
  • caucus
  • convention (political)
  • recall (election)
  • straight ticket (election)
  • redistricting
  • gerrymandering
  • initiative
  • disenfranchisement
  • Political Action Committee (PAC)

Key Language Uses

  • Narrate
  • Inform
  • Explain
  • Argue

Influences on Government (Money, Interest Groups, and Lobbying)

  • Interests, values, and beliefs influence public policy.
  • Various stakeholders affect public policy.

Media and Government

  • Media and government have a shared responsibility for accurate information delivery.
  • Evaluating varied media sources for accuracy is essential.
  • Historical events shaped the political landscape.

Election Processes

  • Election processes at various levels (national, state, local)
  • Voter registration, ballot construction, and voting procedures.
  • Geopolitical and environmental factors influence civic participation and voting.

Effectiveness of the Election Process

  • Examining issues affecting the efficacy of the election process at national, state, and local levels.

Possible Resources

  • Videos (PBS, etc.)
  • Newspaper articles

Instructional Resources

  • Graphic Organizers
  • Readings & Questions
  • History Labs
  • Activities
  • Culturally Responsive Readings

Unit Assessment Items

  • Formative and Summative Assessments
  • Multiple Choice Questions
  • Constructed Response Tasks
  • Performance Tasks

Unit Primary Resources

  • Primary Sources
  • Readings/Articles
  • Songs
  • Maps/Images

Unit Websites and Videos

  • Podcasts
  • Videos
  • Websites

Opportunities for Student Ownership of Learning

  • Analyzing Campaign Messages
  • Politics and Public Policy (from iCivics)
  • Possible Compelling Questions
  • Inquiry Based Projects

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Unit 5: Influence on Government PDF

Description

This quiz explores the intricate dynamics of political parties, elections, and the factors influencing government decisions. Dive into the roles of interest groups, media, and public opinion, as well as the important aspects of the Electoral College in the US electoral process. Test your understanding of how these elements shape public policy and voter participation.

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