Unit Plan
Annenberg Foundation

Annenberg Learner: Democracy in Amer: Interest Groups: Organizing to Influence

For Teachers 9th - 10th
This unit probes into the role political interest groups plays in both complicating and influencing public policy making in America. Offers video, readings, web resources, and activities.
Website
University of Groningen

American History: Outlines: Citizens' Groups and Lobbies

For Students 9th - 10th
Overview of the role of political action committees (PAC), interest groups, and lobbies in the forming of public agenda and political processes.
Lesson Plan
Council for Economic Education

Econ Ed Link: Professinoal Sports: If You Build It, Will They Come?

For Teachers 9th - 10th
Special interest groups are able to have a substantial impact on the political system. Such groups can provide valuable services to individuals and to elected officials. They also can generate substantial benefits to a small minority.
Unit Plan
Annenberg Foundation

Annenberg Learner: Public Opinion: Voice of the People

For Teachers 9th - 10th
Examine public opinion and the various means in which to collect it as well as how the government uses the opinions collected. This resource offers video, readings, web resources, and activities.
PPT
Tom Richey

Tom Richey: Power Point: Linkage Institutions: u.s. Government

For Students 9th - 10th
Tom Richey presents information on the political process and elections in the U.S. with specifics about how special interest groups and the media influence the political process.
Online Course
Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Mit: Open Course Ware: Public Opinion and American Democracy

For Teachers 9th - 10th
Illustrate the significance of public opinion during political events by utilizing these reading resources.
Website
Other

Center for Responsive Politics: Open Secrets

For Students 9th - 10th
Opensecrets.org is a non-partisan, non-profit research group based in Washington, D.C. that tracks money in politics, and its effect on elections and public policy.
Website
Other

League of Women Voters

For Students 9th - 10th
Official homepage of the League of Women Voters.