Media, Interest Group Prediction Sheet & Project Directions

1. BELL WORK: FILL IN YOUR CH. 12 CHART
(IN NOTEBOOK)
Public Opinion (ideas and
attitudes people hold) helps
shape decisions that
officials make
Work to convince public officials
to support their positions.
Lobbyists represent the interest
groups and contact lawmakers
directly. Try to convince people
(and shape public opinion) their
cause is important.
The media can influence
which problems officials
regard as important/ the
public agenda.
Mass Media serves as a
“watchdog”- keeping a close
eye on government activity,
barking when something is
wrong.
Help make the wishes of large
groups of people known, in
that way, they make sure the
government responds to
people’s concerns. I.E. Let
representatives know peoples
wishes.
Forming a public opinion
(i.e. an idea or attitude
about an issue or person).
Following media stories
and voting.

2. FORM YOUR OWN INTEREST GROUPS!
Today you will be forming your own interest group or joining one (continued
from last week)!
Your task:
* Research a public issue within your school, town, community, county, state or
country!
* Form or decide to “join” an interest group revolving around an idea to improve
your researched issue!
* Create a form of propaganda to promote your issue
 Print media could be posters, pamphlets, editorials
 Electronic Media could be a website, blog, or a 30 second commercial script
You must include:
 Name of your interest group (1 point)
 The demographic / region of people you are seeking to attract- include region (2
points)
 Include the political party your group would most likely appeal to.
 Develop a strong platform and goals of your group (2 points)
 Develop an opinion poll question relevant to your interest group to gauge public