Ballot Debate

We are having a series of debates in class on Tuesday the 30th.  Students have chosen a ballot measure to represent, either for or against.  If you have not been in class this week you need to look over the measures and email me with one you would like to debate.  Every student needs to be repaired to turn in a list of arguments representing their side of the debate.  They may be in bullet point form.  You are graded on your arguments (quantity and quality) as well as performance in the debate.

On-line voter's pamphlet

go to: voter's pamphlet

Ballot Measure 9-86

Click on 2012 General Election
From the pamphlet page you can use the headings in the left margin to navigate the measures and candidates.

Non-Legislative Powers

Make a T chart with House of Reps on one side and Senate on the other.  Down the side of your paper write "Power to Choose a President", "Removal Power", "Confirmation Power" , " Ratification Power" , "Amendment Power" , leaving several line spaces between each.  Read pages 163-165 and take notes in the appropriate columns.

2nd Debate

Watch the following: NPR
Which issue is the most important to undecided voters?  Which candidate did the better job of representing his position?

Branches of Government

Which branch has the most power?

To answer this question begin by outlining the expressed powers of each branch outlined in chapter 3 section 2 (Use the handout in class).  Next, using page 66, identify how the branches work together to maintain a balance of power (use the back of the handout)

Using the information from your handout, compare the branches in terms of overall influence on policy and independence from the other branches.  Justify which branch has the most power...the least.

Keep the handout for future discussions
Turn in 1/2 page justification.

Opinion Polling

You are going to conduct your own opinion polls

Read Chapter 18-4 "Measuring Opinion"  Using the information on pages 520 - 521 (scientific polling), do the following:

1.  Outline your sample : include a definition of who is your "universe"
2.  Outline how you will conduct your survey:  Include your plan for random sampling and eliminating error.  Be specific about time and place.
3.  Develop your polls:
       a.  Decide which (5) issues you think are most important
       b.  For each issue write two (2) questions.  One as unbiased as you can, another written in an attempt to influence the response (be creative)
       c.  pass out your survey and present your data accordingly

Trouble Shooting the Debate

After watching the debates we often have more questions than answers.  Using the worksheet from class, write down 5 questions you have about the responses the candidates gave during the debate.

Here are a few websites to help you with fact checking:

Factcheck.org

Politifact.com

usdebtclock.org