Civics Unit 7 Test Study Guide

Which is the best explanation for why media coverage of elections is important?

• it is often a person's only source of information on the issues and candidates

• it helps people have a comprehensive understanding of all the issues

• it introduces the public to only the candidates who have the best chance of winning

• it encourages people to vote for the right candidate based on the media's informed opinions

Do news entities provide only the facts? Why or why not?

• Yes, news entities provide facts and leave it to the individual to interpret them.

• No, news entities present only opinion-based information.

• Yes, news entities report the facts, not what they think.

• No, news entities offer opinions, debate, and interpretations of events.

How might opinion polls negatively affect voter behaviors?

• They often sway voters’ opinions on the issues.

• They can motivate people to not vote.

• They frequently influence voters’ stance on the candidates.

• They persuade people to vote for particular issues and candidates.

Which statement best describes the media’s role in informing the public on government affairs?

• The media presents information, allowing the public to stay informed about current and proposed laws.

• The media’s constant presentation of information requires that the public gain a comprehensive understanding of policy.

• The media works hard to ensure that everyone has access to the same information at all times.

• The media’s experts develop highly informed opinions about current events to ensure that people make the right decisions.

Which of these best describes what the media generally facilitate for the public?

• the ability to actively participate in policy making

• the ability to communicate with government officials and lawmakers

• the ability to try to influence policy decisions

• the ability to hear discussions on laws and the lawmaking process

Which best describes how social-networking sites help political campaigns, especially when compared to traditional media?

• They allow supporters to publicly criticize their policies.

• They ensure that a campaign’s message is accurately presented.

• They enable campaigns to sample public opinion.

• They facilitate clear communication.

What are policymakers trying to do by using the media to deliver specific messages to citizens?

• ask for donations

• promote policies

• encourage debate

• win votes

Which best describes what social interest groups generally promote?

• state-sponsored religion

• financial support for charities

• development of international economic relationships

• causes and values important to a community

Which best describes what economic interest groups generally support?

• tax reform

• government subsidies

• business interests

• international trade

Which best describes why making political allies is a key strategy for lobbyists?

• It reduces competition between opposing lobbyists.

• It enables multiple issues to be addressed at once.

• It places more pressure on lawmakers to vote a certain way.

• It increases the number of supporting votes for pending legislation.