1. why did political parties and special interest groups form? what roles do they play in shaping public policy?
2. how do you think the media influences the decisions of citizens and government officials?
3. how do you think the media influences people's views on political ideas and events? how do you think the impact of the media has changed over time with the invention of television and the internet?
4. how can individual citizens influence public policy?
5. choose a social or political issue that interests you. what changes would you like to see related to this issue? how could you and other citizens bring about that change? give at least three examples of actions you could take.
6. why is it important for you to participate in your community? why is it important for you to vote or otherwise be part of the political process? give at least one reason for each.