Ballot Debate

We are having a series of debates in class on Tuesday the 30th.  Students have chosen a ballot measure to represent either for or against.  If you have not been in class this week you need to look over the measures and email me with one you would like to debate.  Every student needs to be repaired to turn in a list of arguments representing their side of the debate.  They may be in bullet point form.  You are graded on your arguments (quantity and quality) as well as performance in the debate.

On-line voters pamphlet

Go to: voter's pamphlet

Measure 9-86

Click on 2012 General Election

From the pamphlet page you can use the headings in the left margin to navigate the measures and candidates.

2nd Debate

Watch the following: NPR

Which is issue is the most important to undecided voters?  Which candidate did the best job of representing his position?

Opinion Polling

You are going to conduct your own opinion polls

Read Chapter 18-4 "Measuring Opinion"  Using the information on pages 520 - 521 (scientific polling), do the following:

1.  Outline your sample : include a definition of who is your "universe"

2.  Outline how you will conduct your survey:  Include your plan for random sampling and eliminating error.  Be specific about time and place.

3.  Develop your polls:

       a.  Decide which (5) issues you think are most important

       b.  For each issue write two (2) questions.  One as unbiased as you can, another written in an attempt to influence the response (be creative)

       c.  pass out your survey and present your data accordingly

Trouble Shooting the Debate

After watching the debates we often have more questions than answers.  Using the worksheet from class, write down 5 questions you have about the responses the candidates gave during the debate.

Here are a few websites to help you with fact checking:

factcheck.org

politifact.com

usdebtclock.org