Frqs for Political Beliefs and Behaviors

Political Beliefs and Behaviors FRQs

At your tables collectively answer the following FRQs.

1. Voter turnout is influenced by constitutional provisions, voting laws, and demographics. a. Identify the effect two of the amendments had on the electorate i. 15th Amendment ii. 19th Amendment iii. 26th amendment b. Explain how each of the following factors may affect voter turnout. i. Motor Voter laws ii. Photo Identification Laws c. Select one of the following demographic features and describe its relationship to the likelihood of a person voting in an election i. Education ii. Age d. Explain why voter turnout is different in each of the following i. Presidential versus midterm elections ii. Primary versus general Elections

2. Public opinion polls are a way to link the public with elected officials. Members of Congress often use polls to understand the views of their constituents, but they must also pay attention to other political considerations. a. Identify two characteristics of a valid, scientific, public opinion poll b. Explain why each of the following enhances the influence of public opinion on the voting decisions of members of Congress i. Strong public opinion expressed in polling results ii. Competitive Re-Elections c. Explain why each of the following limits the influence of public opinion on the voting decisions of members of Congress. i. Legislators’ voting records ii. Party leadership