Politics1 Issues
ProCon.org
Federal Spending
Federal Income Tax Schedule
(rates on page 14)
Nomination Acceptance Speeches (text)
Party Principles Example (Libertarian Party)
Logos & Slogans:
Look at other political party websites for examples
Friday, December 9, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Platform Issues Web Activity
1. Log onto http://www.politics1.com/issues.htm
2. Scroll down the page, there are 19 “Issues” links that will bring you to another page that has links to special interest group websites on each side of that particular issue.
3. Look around at some of the issues that interest you, and click some of the interest group websites to find out more information about the topic. The easiest way to see what an organization is all about is to click on there “About Us,” “Learn More,” “Our Mission,” or other link that explains their basis purpose and argument on an issue.
4. After looking at some of the sites, write down 2-5 sentences about where the organization stands on an issue.
2. Scroll down the page, there are 19 “Issues” links that will bring you to another page that has links to special interest group websites on each side of that particular issue.
3. Look around at some of the issues that interest you, and click some of the interest group websites to find out more information about the topic. The easiest way to see what an organization is all about is to click on there “About Us,” “Learn More,” “Our Mission,” or other link that explains their basis purpose and argument on an issue.
4. After looking at some of the sites, write down 2-5 sentences about where the organization stands on an issue.
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Make up work & Extra Credit Due Wed 11/9
-Any missing assignments must be handed in by Wed 11/9 for credit
-Extra credit assignment: p. 60, q.15-29 in American Government text
-Extra credit assignment: p. 60, q.15-29 in American Government text
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
New York Times E-Edition
1. Log onto http://eedition.nytimes.com
2. Enter classroom username & classroom password (number given out in class, its the same for both).
2. Enter classroom username & classroom password (number given out in class, its the same for both).
Monday, September 26, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Summer Reading Assignment 2011 Due 9/6/2011
1. Read Profiles in Courage by John F. Kennedy
2. Write a 1-2 page paper in which you choose 1 profile and explain in your words why this individual is significant in the study of the U.S. Government
3. Due on Tuesday 9/6/2011 as an extra credit assignment for 1st quarter.
2. Write a 1-2 page paper in which you choose 1 profile and explain in your words why this individual is significant in the study of the U.S. Government
3. Due on Tuesday 9/6/2011 as an extra credit assignment for 1st quarter.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Due Monday 6/6: Yes or No
it Constitutionally Protected?
1. Released Time Programs
2. Teaching “Creationism” in Public School
3. Teaching a story from the Bible
in Public School as literature
4. Posting the 10 Commandments in
Public School
5. Allowing student prayer in hallway
during class time
6. Having a Bible Club at a public school
7. Burning the American Flag to protest
the war in Afghanistan
8. Wearing a necklace at school in memory
of a family member that passed away
1. Released Time Programs
2. Teaching “Creationism” in Public School
3. Teaching a story from the Bible
in Public School as literature
4. Posting the 10 Commandments in
Public School
5. Allowing student prayer in hallway
during class time
6. Having a Bible Club at a public school
7. Burning the American Flag to protest
the war in Afghanistan
8. Wearing a necklace at school in memory
of a family member that passed away
Chapter 19 Terms-Due Monday 6/6
Bill of Rights
Civil Liberties
Civil Rights
Alien
Due Process Clause
Establishment Clause
Parochial
Free Exercise Clause
Libel
Slander
Seditious Speech
Prior Restraint
Shield Laws
Symbolic Speech
Picketing
Content Neutral
Right of Association
Lemon Test
Civil Liberties
Civil Rights
Alien
Due Process Clause
Establishment Clause
Parochial
Free Exercise Clause
Libel
Slander
Seditious Speech
Prior Restraint
Shield Laws
Symbolic Speech
Picketing
Content Neutral
Right of Association
Lemon Test
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Supreme Court Paper
The Supreme Court & The Balance of Power
Honors Civics- Mr. Meli
4th Quarter Project 2011
GOAL: Interpret the impact of a Supreme Court case.
CASES TO PICK:
Students will choose 1 of the following cases.
1. Mapp v. Ohio 2. Gideon v. Wainwright 3. Griswold v. Connecticut
4. New York Times v. United States 5. Kelo v. New London
2 PAPERS THAT MUST BE SUBMITTED TO TURNITIN.COM
A. BACKGROUND QUESTIONS (SEPARATE FROM THESIS ESSAY)
Students must answer the following questions:
1-Who were the judges hearing the case?
2-When and where was the case?
3-What is the background story to the case?
4-What underlying issues surround the case?
5-Name 3 similar cases that the Supreme Court heard. Explain why they are similar.
6-How did the nation react to the decision?
7-How should the nation have reacted to this case?
8-Who nominated the judges involved?
9-How might the politics of the person nominating the judge reflect their feelings
on this case?
10-How many judges agreed with the case?
11-What legal ground did the dissent use to justify their reasoning?
12-What else was going on in the nation that had an impact on this case?
13-What other specific information could help someone understand the importance of this case?
14-Was the decision constitutionally correct?
15-How does the decision affect us today?
16-Why should your classmates and fellow citizens of the U.S. know about
this case?
17-How does the Supreme Court balance the power of the Federal Government?
B. THESIS ESSAY (SEPARATE FROM BACKGROUND QUESTIONS)
1. The essay will explain how the court balanced the power of the government or failed in doing so.
2. Students will submit a typed essay that answers the following question:
-How does the Supreme Court balance the power of Government in the
in the _______________________case?
3. Students will persuade the reader that the case was or was not constitutionally justified.
Where do I find this out?
Use the following websites as starting points to get the information
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/
http://www.supremecourtus.gov/
http://www.landmarkcases.org/
http://www.oyez.org/
RUBRIC:
____________/10: Proper Format: Paper is typed 12 point font, 1.5 space. The thesis essay is
no more than 2 pages plus a worked cited and title page that is 12 font on the page with name, name of case, date due and period. Borders have not been changed. Submitted to turnitin.com.
____________/20: Information used in paper is cited in text. Works cited is
MLA Format with at least 3 cited sources. (NO WIKIPEDIA!).
____________/50: Each of the questions (17) are answered correctly and written in
complete sentences, submitted to turnitin.com.
____________/20: Spelling and grammar have no errors
____________/20: Essay has an UNDERLINED THESIS SENTENCE that directly
answers the question, “How does the Supreme Court balance the power of Government in the in the _______________________case?”
____________/50: The opinion of the author on the verdict is clear and the question
is answered thoroughly throughout the essay.
____________/30: Thesis is adequately defended in class roundtable discussion* (5
minutes each)
____________/200: TOTAL
*If you are absent for roundtable discussion, you must set a time with Mr. Meli after school or during 1st period study hall/open period to defend thesis in order to receive points*
Paper Due Date: Tuesday, 6/14/2011
*Discussion Dates: 6/14 & 6/15
10% off (20 points) each class day late. No papers will be accepted after 6/17.
Papers must be submitted to turnitin.com by 7:30 AM on 6/14 in order to participate in roundtable discussion & earn the 30 Points
Honors Civics- Mr. Meli
4th Quarter Project 2011
GOAL: Interpret the impact of a Supreme Court case.
CASES TO PICK:
Students will choose 1 of the following cases.
1. Mapp v. Ohio 2. Gideon v. Wainwright 3. Griswold v. Connecticut
4. New York Times v. United States 5. Kelo v. New London
2 PAPERS THAT MUST BE SUBMITTED TO TURNITIN.COM
A. BACKGROUND QUESTIONS (SEPARATE FROM THESIS ESSAY)
Students must answer the following questions:
1-Who were the judges hearing the case?
2-When and where was the case?
3-What is the background story to the case?
4-What underlying issues surround the case?
5-Name 3 similar cases that the Supreme Court heard. Explain why they are similar.
6-How did the nation react to the decision?
7-How should the nation have reacted to this case?
8-Who nominated the judges involved?
9-How might the politics of the person nominating the judge reflect their feelings
on this case?
10-How many judges agreed with the case?
11-What legal ground did the dissent use to justify their reasoning?
12-What else was going on in the nation that had an impact on this case?
13-What other specific information could help someone understand the importance of this case?
14-Was the decision constitutionally correct?
15-How does the decision affect us today?
16-Why should your classmates and fellow citizens of the U.S. know about
this case?
17-How does the Supreme Court balance the power of the Federal Government?
B. THESIS ESSAY (SEPARATE FROM BACKGROUND QUESTIONS)
1. The essay will explain how the court balanced the power of the government or failed in doing so.
2. Students will submit a typed essay that answers the following question:
-How does the Supreme Court balance the power of Government in the
in the _______________________case?
3. Students will persuade the reader that the case was or was not constitutionally justified.
Where do I find this out?
Use the following websites as starting points to get the information
http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/
http://www.supremecourtus.gov/
http://www.landmarkcases.org/
http://www.oyez.org/
RUBRIC:
____________/10: Proper Format: Paper is typed 12 point font, 1.5 space. The thesis essay is
no more than 2 pages plus a worked cited and title page that is 12 font on the page with name, name of case, date due and period. Borders have not been changed. Submitted to turnitin.com.
____________/20: Information used in paper is cited in text. Works cited is
MLA Format with at least 3 cited sources. (NO WIKIPEDIA!).
____________/50: Each of the questions (17) are answered correctly and written in
complete sentences, submitted to turnitin.com.
____________/20: Spelling and grammar have no errors
____________/20: Essay has an UNDERLINED THESIS SENTENCE that directly
answers the question, “How does the Supreme Court balance the power of Government in the in the _______________________case?”
____________/50: The opinion of the author on the verdict is clear and the question
is answered thoroughly throughout the essay.
____________/30: Thesis is adequately defended in class roundtable discussion* (5
minutes each)
____________/200: TOTAL
*If you are absent for roundtable discussion, you must set a time with Mr. Meli after school or during 1st period study hall/open period to defend thesis in order to receive points*
Paper Due Date: Tuesday, 6/14/2011
*Discussion Dates: 6/14 & 6/15
10% off (20 points) each class day late. No papers will be accepted after 6/17.
Papers must be submitted to turnitin.com by 7:30 AM on 6/14 in order to participate in roundtable discussion & earn the 30 Points
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
"Know Your Senators" Mini-Project
Know Your Senators Honors Civics
Mini-Project 75 Points Spring 2011
-Visit the Washington Post’s “Vote Database”:
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/112/senate/members/
-Browse the list of the 100 current U.S. Senators. Choose any 1 senator to research. Mr. Meli must approve your selection since no two students can report on the same senator.
-The site has basic biographical information, links to Washington Post stories relating to each senator, and a detailed section on their voting record*.
*Do not choose a senator who has little—no experience, because they will not have a significant voting record (Example: Richard Blumenthal-D CT).*
-There are 2 main parts to this project
1) Basic information (25 Points)
Write a 1-2 page report on the Senator’s background. Explain where he or she came from, including education, previous employment, and previous public service, how he/she was elected (or appointed) into the Senate, re-election campaign information/plans, and where he/she claims to stand on the issues. Use the Senator’s homepage (link on http://www.senate.gov), the Washington Post profile, and news articles relating to your senator for information.
2) Voting Record (50 Points)
Write a 2-5 page report on your senator’s voting record. Use the Washington Post website (link on top of sheet) find out your senator’s “key votes.” You must explain 5 key votes from your senator. To find out about the bill, click on the link from the “key vote” section. You should also discuss the votes your senator missed (if any) and the percentage of times that your senator voted with his or her party. You should write an overall analysis of your senator’s voting record as it compares with his or her political views as portrayed to the public.
Due Date: Tuesday May 31, 2011; 10% off each class day late
Papers must be typed in 12 point font, double spaced, within the length guidelines listed above.
Papers should be stapled together with separate headings for each report. Format Below:
Part 1 (Top Left Corner of Page) Part 2 (Top Left Corner of Page)
Your Name Your Name
Senator (Last Name) Basic Information Senator (Last Name) Voting Record
May 31, 2011 May 31, 2011
Mini-Project 75 Points Spring 2011
-Visit the Washington Post’s “Vote Database”:
http://projects.washingtonpost.com/congress/112/senate/members/
-Browse the list of the 100 current U.S. Senators. Choose any 1 senator to research. Mr. Meli must approve your selection since no two students can report on the same senator.
-The site has basic biographical information, links to Washington Post stories relating to each senator, and a detailed section on their voting record*.
*Do not choose a senator who has little—no experience, because they will not have a significant voting record (Example: Richard Blumenthal-D CT).*
-There are 2 main parts to this project
1) Basic information (25 Points)
Write a 1-2 page report on the Senator’s background. Explain where he or she came from, including education, previous employment, and previous public service, how he/she was elected (or appointed) into the Senate, re-election campaign information/plans, and where he/she claims to stand on the issues. Use the Senator’s homepage (link on http://www.senate.gov), the Washington Post profile, and news articles relating to your senator for information.
2) Voting Record (50 Points)
Write a 2-5 page report on your senator’s voting record. Use the Washington Post website (link on top of sheet) find out your senator’s “key votes.” You must explain 5 key votes from your senator. To find out about the bill, click on the link from the “key vote” section. You should also discuss the votes your senator missed (if any) and the percentage of times that your senator voted with his or her party. You should write an overall analysis of your senator’s voting record as it compares with his or her political views as portrayed to the public.
Due Date: Tuesday May 31, 2011; 10% off each class day late
Papers must be typed in 12 point font, double spaced, within the length guidelines listed above.
Papers should be stapled together with separate headings for each report. Format Below:
Part 1 (Top Left Corner of Page) Part 2 (Top Left Corner of Page)
Your Name Your Name
Senator (Last Name) Basic Information Senator (Last Name) Voting Record
May 31, 2011 May 31, 2011
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday, May 9, 2011
Homework for Week of 5/9 through 5/13
Due Tuesday 5/10: read pp.390-392; answer q1-4 on p. 392
Due Wednesday 5/11: read pp. 393-397; answer q2-5 on p. 397
Due Thursday 5/12: read pp. 399-403; answer q 1-4 on p. 403
Due Friday 5/13: Current Event
Due Wednesday 5/11: read pp. 393-397; answer q2-5 on p. 397
Due Thursday 5/12: read pp. 399-403; answer q 1-4 on p. 403
Due Friday 5/13: Current Event
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Homework due 5/5
Read pp. 164-172
Define political dictionary terms from p.164
Answer questions 1-6 on p. 172
Define political dictionary terms from p.164
Answer questions 1-6 on p. 172
Friday, April 15, 2011
Political Party Project Due Dates Change
-Presidential Debates will now take place on Thursday 4/28 & Friday 4/29 instead of Tuesday 4/26 & Wednesday 4/27.
-Final Drafts for all projects are now due Tuesday 5/3 instead of Friday 4/29.
-Final Drafts for all projects are now due Tuesday 5/3 instead of Friday 4/29.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Due Thursday 4/14
-All makeup work (up to 1/2 credit)
-Extra Credit Questions (2 Freakonomics segment reactions & "Inside Job")
-Inside Job Questions
-Extra Credit Questions (2 Freakonomics segment reactions & "Inside Job")
-Inside Job Questions
Friday, April 1, 2011
Political Party Project
Political Party Project
Semester 2 2010-11
Honors Civics- Mr. Meli
“There are many men of principle in both parties in America, but there is no party of principle.” ~Alexis de Tocqueville
“Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.” ~Plato
You will be working with your classmates to form into political parties based common ideas that you share with the goal of nominating a presidential candidate. You will complete various assignments in which you will describe where your party stands on various domestic and foreign relations issues. This will be a long-term project that will require work to be done both inside and outside of the class time. You will be required to work both independently and as a group; compromise is part of the political process, even among those of you in the same party! You will still be responsible for all other classroom and homework assignments that will be graded separately from the project throughout the time we are working on it.
Outcomes of the project
Skills and Habits
-Research
-Various forms of writing
-Analytical reading
-Working cooperatively in a group setting
-Working independently
-Effective listening
-Public speaking
-Time management
-Organization
-Effective questioning
Attitudes/Behaviors
-Responsibility
-Open-mindedness
-Respect/Courtesy
-Reflection
Essential Questions
-What political issues are most important?
-What does a political campaign do?
-Who supports political campaigns?
-Where do ideas to change the country come from?
Basic Outline of Project
Step One
A) You will take two quizzes. The first is thirty questions whose responses will be averaged together to get a perspective on where you stand as an individual on a flat line of the left or right of the political spectrum. The second is the world’s smallest political quiz that measures where you fit on a diamond shaped graph of political ideas based on personal and economic issues.
B) After taking the quiz you will review your responses with your classmates and choose who you want to work with. Groups must consist of 4 members, with each member assuming an office (see page 3 with officer list & assignments).
Step Two
A) You will do preliminary research on possible platform issues via the web using politics1.com as a starting point.
B) You will come up with a name for your party and come up with a list of issues that you want to focus on.
C) Choose party officers (see attachment with officer duties/grading)
Step Three
We will begin to look at what the basics of party principles and platforms are; what they mean and represent to the party, potential voters, and the opposition.
Step Four
You will conduct in depth research to support your party’s platform ideas, principles and overall agenda.
Step Five
You will begin work on individual assignments based on the office you hold.
Step Six
Presidential Debate between candidates. Students who are not participating in the debate are required to complete debate evaluations during the debate and follow it closely without talking (as in real Presidential Debates).
Step Seven
Group Presentations of Party Materials. Presidential Nomination Acceptance Speeches. Voting for your class president.
How will I be graded?
200 Points Total
Assignment Breakdown: (FINAL DRAFTS)
Points
Campaign Manager:
-Statement of Principles 50
-Newspaper Endorsement 50
-Platforms (2) 50
-Campaign Strategy 25
-Final Presentation 25
President:
-Presidential Speech 75
-Debate 75
-Platforms (2) 50
Research Manager
-Bibliography 25
-Press Releases (5) 100
-Platforms (2) 50
-Final Presentation 25
Art/Media
-Party Logo & its meaning 25
-Campaign Brochure 25
-Campaign Mailer 25
-Platforms 50
-Final Presentation 25
2 of the following other art projects 50
-Newspaper Ad
-TV Ad
-Street Sign (full size)
-Campaign Poster (Large)
-Other Artistic or Multimedia Displays- Be Creative! (See me about approval)
Extra Credit
Give-Away Items: Bring in something with your party’s name & logo along with your candidate’s name with enough for the entire class. Examples from past years include buttons, pencils, bumper stickers, or various candy & food items.
Be creative: Run an idea by Mr. Meli that is related to campaigning or political parties
*Rough Drafts will count as homework assignment grades (separate from the 200 Point Project, for Marking Period 3)*
Important Dates
Monday 4/4/2011: List of group members
Tuesday 4/5/2011: Party officers and platform topics
Friday 4/8/2011 Rough Drafts of Platforms
(Each count as 10pt HW grade)
Tue 4/26/2011 Presidential Candidate Debate
(May need 4/27/2011 to finish)
Fri 4/29/2011 Final Presentations/Speeches
Final Drafts of all work due
-Final Drafts must be typed in 12 point font, double spaced. Projects should be attached in 3-ring binder, folder, or report cover with all final drafts together.
-Final Presentations include all members explaining their platforms, the presentation of art/media, and the presidential candidates giving their nomination acceptance speeches.
-Final drafts of project will not be accepted late unless there is an EXCUSED absence on the due date. Arrangements should be made with your group so that all work is turned in on or before the due date.
Party Platforms (Every member must complete 2)
A party platform is a short description of what your party will do about a SPECIFIC issue if and when they win the presidency of the United States of America. The platform issues must be consistent with the political issues of the day. You must choose 8 per group, with at least one pertaining to foreign relations. Remember to use statistics and facts from sources (interest group websites, newspapers,etc.). You will need to cite them in your bibliography.
Outline of Platforms (3 Paragraphs minimum for each)
I. Introduce the Issue
Describe the basics of the issue that your party will be addressing
Use statistics to support your writing
II. Stress the need for action
Explain why this issue is need of change and reform
Use statistics to backup your arguments
III. Action
What will your presidential candidate do for this issue
Describe SPECIFIC policies and/or programs to address issue
Party Principles (Campaign Manager must complete)
A party principle is a very broad (big, not specific) idea that your political party stands for. Party principles are consistent and do not change every election the way that platforms do. These are the fundamentals of your party and are reflected in each of your platforms. (see http://www.lp.org/introduction/what-is-the-libertarian-party, http://www.americafirstparty.org/docs/principles.shtml, or any party websites from http://www.politics1.com/parties.htm, and click “principles” to see examples of party principles.
Outline of Principles (5 Total)
List 5 Principles, with a 2-5 sentence explanation of each. 3 of your principles should address economic, social, and security/military issues.
Campaign Strategy (Campaign Manager must complete)
Must include a one paragraph explanation of how your group plans to win the election. We will look at some examples of campaign strategy in class, especially from the 2008 Presidential Election. You must also practice what you preach, by following through with your strategy.
Newspaper Endorsement (Campaign Manager must complete)
You will write this as if you were writing an opinion/editorial section for a newspaper. You must explain the reasons why your paper endorses the candidate based on issues from the party platforms and principles. Refer to recent editorials supporting Barack Obama and John McCain for models. Endorsements should be at least 1 full page in length and include real platform items.
Debate (President must participate in)
We will have a debate between presidential candidates on Tuesday 4/26 (and continue on Wednesday 4/27 if necessary). If a presidential candidate is absent, they will have to complete an alternate assignment. I will go over the rules and structure of the debate next week, and provide you with the questions that will be asked. Students who are not debating must complete an evaluation form which I will go over next week and must remain silent during the proceedings.
Speech (President must submit and give to class)
This is nomination acceptance speech given in the format of a speech given on the final day of a political party’s convention where the party’s chosen candidate officially accepts his or her party’s nomination to represent them in the general election for President of the United States of America. It is also the time where the candidate lays out his or her plan for America once he becomes president (same as party platforms).
Directions:
The speech you will write for the class is a much shorter one than the major candidates give during their conventions. You will be including 3 of your party’s platforms in your speech (choose the most important 3). Remember that the speech is meant to be heard by every possible American voter, not just our Civics class. Choose your words wisely to appeal to every voter. The speech should be no longer than 5 minutes when read aloud. Follow the outline below as a guide to write your speech.
Outline Format:
I. Introduction
A. Greeting & Thank Yous to Party Members and/or family
B. Tell who you are and what party you are running for
C. Tell why you are running for president
D. Explain need for change in this country
II. Platform Issue #1
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
III. Platform Issue #2
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
IV. Platform Issue #3
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
V. Wrap up
A. Mention party slogan & explain what it means
B. Stress the need for immediate action
C. Closing points
Logo/Slogan & Its Meaning (Art/Media must complete)
Your logo and slogan should reflect something about what your party stands for and/or include a message of optimism or inspiration to the voter. The slogans should be short (1-5 words) and to the point. You must include a 1 paragraph explanation of your slogan and logo.
Campaign Brochure (Art/Media must complete)
Brochures should include basic information about your candidate and party, including platforms, principles, the party logo and slogan. Brochures are designed to inform the public about a candidate, and attempt to get their vote. See examples in class of brochures.
Campaign Mailer (Art/Media must complete)
Mailers are 2 sided papers that are sent in the mail to potential voters. They should include the candidate’s name, the party name and logo. The mailers may center around one issue (healthcare for example) or may address several of the candidate’s platforms. See examples in class of brochures.
Bibliography (Research Manager must complete)
You must keep a record of every website, magazine article, newspaper, etc. that your group uses for ideas, statistics, or any information in the project. Use MLA format for your bibliography (see easybib.com for help with MLA).
Press Releases (Research Manager must complete 5)
Press releases are official statements given out to the media from an individual or group. They can focus on a variety of issues and topics.
Directions:
For the purpose of this assignment you will be writing press releases from your political party’s campaign.
Each of your 5 press releases will focus on a criticism of an opposing party’s campaign platforms.
You may choose to target a specific party or simply criticize the argument that is the opposite of yours on a specific issue.
Each press release should cover a different topic and should be at least 2 paragraphs in length
Sample Press Release
Monday November 10, 2008
No-Nothing Party
By Bob Smith, Financial Manager
Today the American Public has received news that the Libertarian Party has included in its 2008 Party Platforms that the government should play no role in educating children and therefore wants to eliminate public schools altogether. This plan is outrageous and completely wrong for America. The need for education of all children is as necessary today as it was when public education became a requirement in the early 1900s. Without free, public education for all American children, millions would be left home alone, or in the streets during the daytime hours while their parents are away at work. The majority of American families cannot afford the huge costs involved with sending children to private schools.
The Libertarian Party prides itself as a group that is devoted to “caring for the people,” but their education plan is the antithesis of that statement. The plan to privatize all schools, turning them into industries for profit, NOT for the benefit of the youth of America is not the answer to solve the problems in our education system. The amount of money saved from property taxes that are now devoted to public schools will not offset the costs involved with educating children in a private school model. Under the Libertarian Party Education Plan, 80% of families with school age children could not afford to send them to school. This staggering number will put a strain on society the likes that have never been seen. America needs an education policy that will help all Americans, not just the richest 20%. We need to support public education, not eliminate it. We need to provide support to teachers and parents in struggling districts, not punish them. The No Nothing Party will do that with our education plan.
Semester 2 2010-11
Honors Civics- Mr. Meli
“There are many men of principle in both parties in America, but there is no party of principle.” ~Alexis de Tocqueville
“Those who are too smart to engage in politics are punished by being governed by those who are dumber.” ~Plato
You will be working with your classmates to form into political parties based common ideas that you share with the goal of nominating a presidential candidate. You will complete various assignments in which you will describe where your party stands on various domestic and foreign relations issues. This will be a long-term project that will require work to be done both inside and outside of the class time. You will be required to work both independently and as a group; compromise is part of the political process, even among those of you in the same party! You will still be responsible for all other classroom and homework assignments that will be graded separately from the project throughout the time we are working on it.
Outcomes of the project
Skills and Habits
-Research
-Various forms of writing
-Analytical reading
-Working cooperatively in a group setting
-Working independently
-Effective listening
-Public speaking
-Time management
-Organization
-Effective questioning
Attitudes/Behaviors
-Responsibility
-Open-mindedness
-Respect/Courtesy
-Reflection
Essential Questions
-What political issues are most important?
-What does a political campaign do?
-Who supports political campaigns?
-Where do ideas to change the country come from?
Basic Outline of Project
Step One
A) You will take two quizzes. The first is thirty questions whose responses will be averaged together to get a perspective on where you stand as an individual on a flat line of the left or right of the political spectrum. The second is the world’s smallest political quiz that measures where you fit on a diamond shaped graph of political ideas based on personal and economic issues.
B) After taking the quiz you will review your responses with your classmates and choose who you want to work with. Groups must consist of 4 members, with each member assuming an office (see page 3 with officer list & assignments).
Step Two
A) You will do preliminary research on possible platform issues via the web using politics1.com as a starting point.
B) You will come up with a name for your party and come up with a list of issues that you want to focus on.
C) Choose party officers (see attachment with officer duties/grading)
Step Three
We will begin to look at what the basics of party principles and platforms are; what they mean and represent to the party, potential voters, and the opposition.
Step Four
You will conduct in depth research to support your party’s platform ideas, principles and overall agenda.
Step Five
You will begin work on individual assignments based on the office you hold.
Step Six
Presidential Debate between candidates. Students who are not participating in the debate are required to complete debate evaluations during the debate and follow it closely without talking (as in real Presidential Debates).
Step Seven
Group Presentations of Party Materials. Presidential Nomination Acceptance Speeches. Voting for your class president.
How will I be graded?
200 Points Total
Assignment Breakdown: (FINAL DRAFTS)
Points
Campaign Manager:
-Statement of Principles 50
-Newspaper Endorsement 50
-Platforms (2) 50
-Campaign Strategy 25
-Final Presentation 25
President:
-Presidential Speech 75
-Debate 75
-Platforms (2) 50
Research Manager
-Bibliography 25
-Press Releases (5) 100
-Platforms (2) 50
-Final Presentation 25
Art/Media
-Party Logo & its meaning 25
-Campaign Brochure 25
-Campaign Mailer 25
-Platforms 50
-Final Presentation 25
2 of the following other art projects 50
-Newspaper Ad
-TV Ad
-Street Sign (full size)
-Campaign Poster (Large)
-Other Artistic or Multimedia Displays- Be Creative! (See me about approval)
Extra Credit
Give-Away Items: Bring in something with your party’s name & logo along with your candidate’s name with enough for the entire class. Examples from past years include buttons, pencils, bumper stickers, or various candy & food items.
Be creative: Run an idea by Mr. Meli that is related to campaigning or political parties
*Rough Drafts will count as homework assignment grades (separate from the 200 Point Project, for Marking Period 3)*
Important Dates
Monday 4/4/2011: List of group members
Tuesday 4/5/2011: Party officers and platform topics
Friday 4/8/2011 Rough Drafts of Platforms
(Each count as 10pt HW grade)
Tue 4/26/2011 Presidential Candidate Debate
(May need 4/27/2011 to finish)
Fri 4/29/2011 Final Presentations/Speeches
Final Drafts of all work due
-Final Drafts must be typed in 12 point font, double spaced. Projects should be attached in 3-ring binder, folder, or report cover with all final drafts together.
-Final Presentations include all members explaining their platforms, the presentation of art/media, and the presidential candidates giving their nomination acceptance speeches.
-Final drafts of project will not be accepted late unless there is an EXCUSED absence on the due date. Arrangements should be made with your group so that all work is turned in on or before the due date.
Party Platforms (Every member must complete 2)
A party platform is a short description of what your party will do about a SPECIFIC issue if and when they win the presidency of the United States of America. The platform issues must be consistent with the political issues of the day. You must choose 8 per group, with at least one pertaining to foreign relations. Remember to use statistics and facts from sources (interest group websites, newspapers,etc.). You will need to cite them in your bibliography.
Outline of Platforms (3 Paragraphs minimum for each)
I. Introduce the Issue
Describe the basics of the issue that your party will be addressing
Use statistics to support your writing
II. Stress the need for action
Explain why this issue is need of change and reform
Use statistics to backup your arguments
III. Action
What will your presidential candidate do for this issue
Describe SPECIFIC policies and/or programs to address issue
Party Principles (Campaign Manager must complete)
A party principle is a very broad (big, not specific) idea that your political party stands for. Party principles are consistent and do not change every election the way that platforms do. These are the fundamentals of your party and are reflected in each of your platforms. (see http://www.lp.org/introduction/what-is-the-libertarian-party, http://www.americafirstparty.org/docs/principles.shtml, or any party websites from http://www.politics1.com/parties.htm, and click “principles” to see examples of party principles.
Outline of Principles (5 Total)
List 5 Principles, with a 2-5 sentence explanation of each. 3 of your principles should address economic, social, and security/military issues.
Campaign Strategy (Campaign Manager must complete)
Must include a one paragraph explanation of how your group plans to win the election. We will look at some examples of campaign strategy in class, especially from the 2008 Presidential Election. You must also practice what you preach, by following through with your strategy.
Newspaper Endorsement (Campaign Manager must complete)
You will write this as if you were writing an opinion/editorial section for a newspaper. You must explain the reasons why your paper endorses the candidate based on issues from the party platforms and principles. Refer to recent editorials supporting Barack Obama and John McCain for models. Endorsements should be at least 1 full page in length and include real platform items.
Debate (President must participate in)
We will have a debate between presidential candidates on Tuesday 4/26 (and continue on Wednesday 4/27 if necessary). If a presidential candidate is absent, they will have to complete an alternate assignment. I will go over the rules and structure of the debate next week, and provide you with the questions that will be asked. Students who are not debating must complete an evaluation form which I will go over next week and must remain silent during the proceedings.
Speech (President must submit and give to class)
This is nomination acceptance speech given in the format of a speech given on the final day of a political party’s convention where the party’s chosen candidate officially accepts his or her party’s nomination to represent them in the general election for President of the United States of America. It is also the time where the candidate lays out his or her plan for America once he becomes president (same as party platforms).
Directions:
The speech you will write for the class is a much shorter one than the major candidates give during their conventions. You will be including 3 of your party’s platforms in your speech (choose the most important 3). Remember that the speech is meant to be heard by every possible American voter, not just our Civics class. Choose your words wisely to appeal to every voter. The speech should be no longer than 5 minutes when read aloud. Follow the outline below as a guide to write your speech.
Outline Format:
I. Introduction
A. Greeting & Thank Yous to Party Members and/or family
B. Tell who you are and what party you are running for
C. Tell why you are running for president
D. Explain need for change in this country
II. Platform Issue #1
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
III. Platform Issue #2
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
IV. Platform Issue #3
A. What is it?
B. Why do we need action or adjusting?
C. What will you do as president specifically on this issue?
V. Wrap up
A. Mention party slogan & explain what it means
B. Stress the need for immediate action
C. Closing points
Logo/Slogan & Its Meaning (Art/Media must complete)
Your logo and slogan should reflect something about what your party stands for and/or include a message of optimism or inspiration to the voter. The slogans should be short (1-5 words) and to the point. You must include a 1 paragraph explanation of your slogan and logo.
Campaign Brochure (Art/Media must complete)
Brochures should include basic information about your candidate and party, including platforms, principles, the party logo and slogan. Brochures are designed to inform the public about a candidate, and attempt to get their vote. See examples in class of brochures.
Campaign Mailer (Art/Media must complete)
Mailers are 2 sided papers that are sent in the mail to potential voters. They should include the candidate’s name, the party name and logo. The mailers may center around one issue (healthcare for example) or may address several of the candidate’s platforms. See examples in class of brochures.
Bibliography (Research Manager must complete)
You must keep a record of every website, magazine article, newspaper, etc. that your group uses for ideas, statistics, or any information in the project. Use MLA format for your bibliography (see easybib.com for help with MLA).
Press Releases (Research Manager must complete 5)
Press releases are official statements given out to the media from an individual or group. They can focus on a variety of issues and topics.
Directions:
For the purpose of this assignment you will be writing press releases from your political party’s campaign.
Each of your 5 press releases will focus on a criticism of an opposing party’s campaign platforms.
You may choose to target a specific party or simply criticize the argument that is the opposite of yours on a specific issue.
Each press release should cover a different topic and should be at least 2 paragraphs in length
Sample Press Release
Monday November 10, 2008
No-Nothing Party
By Bob Smith, Financial Manager
Today the American Public has received news that the Libertarian Party has included in its 2008 Party Platforms that the government should play no role in educating children and therefore wants to eliminate public schools altogether. This plan is outrageous and completely wrong for America. The need for education of all children is as necessary today as it was when public education became a requirement in the early 1900s. Without free, public education for all American children, millions would be left home alone, or in the streets during the daytime hours while their parents are away at work. The majority of American families cannot afford the huge costs involved with sending children to private schools.
The Libertarian Party prides itself as a group that is devoted to “caring for the people,” but their education plan is the antithesis of that statement. The plan to privatize all schools, turning them into industries for profit, NOT for the benefit of the youth of America is not the answer to solve the problems in our education system. The amount of money saved from property taxes that are now devoted to public schools will not offset the costs involved with educating children in a private school model. Under the Libertarian Party Education Plan, 80% of families with school age children could not afford to send them to school. This staggering number will put a strain on society the likes that have never been seen. America needs an education policy that will help all Americans, not just the richest 20%. We need to support public education, not eliminate it. We need to provide support to teachers and parents in struggling districts, not punish them. The No Nothing Party will do that with our education plan.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Monday, March 7, 2011
Homework for week of 3/7
Read & Outline chapter 2 section 3 (Per 3-Due 3/9, Per 7-Due 3/10)
Current Event #3-Due Friday 3/11
Current Event #3-Due Friday 3/11
Monday, February 28, 2011
Homework for Week of 2/28 through 3/4
Due Tuesday 3/1: Read & Outline chapter 2 section 1
Due Wednesday 3/2: Read & Outline chapter 2 section 2
Due Thursday 3/3: Document Analysis: Declaration of Indpendence
Due Friday 3/4: Current Event #2
Due Wednesday 3/2: Read & Outline chapter 2 section 2
Due Thursday 3/3: Document Analysis: Declaration of Indpendence
Due Friday 3/4: Current Event #2
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Monday, February 14, 2011
Homework for week of 2/14/2011
Monday: Read & Outline Chapter 1 Section 2
Tuesday: Finish Island Government & Prepare to share
Wednesday: Read & Outline Chapter 1 Section 3
Thursday: Current Event 1
Tuesday: Finish Island Government & Prepare to share
Wednesday: Read & Outline Chapter 1 Section 3
Thursday: Current Event 1
Monday, February 7, 2011
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Homework for Week of 1/3 through 1/7
Due 1/5: Define "Political Dictionary" terms on p. 286
Due 1/7: Current Event
Due 1/7: Current Event
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