Unit 5- Participating in Government

How did the twenty-sixth Amendment greatly increase the number of Americans eligible to vote?

• By eliminating discriminatory voting laws

• By lowering the voting age to 18

• By passing grandfather clauses

• By requiring voters to pass a literacy test

The table below identifies some of the responsibilities citizens have at different levels of government. Use the table to answer question 2.

• Pay federal income taxes

• Enlist in the armed forces to serve overseas

• Join a local church, synagogue, or mosque

• Attend a public meeting on community issues

Which act fulfills a responsibility, rather than an obligation, that citizens have at the local level?

• Pay state property taxes

• Vote in municipal elections

• Volunteer to help a friend move her home

• Register with the selective service system

What is one way in which an individual citizen can influence the government?

• save money from extra earnings

• help a neighbor solve a problem

• sign a petition to state legislators

• watch television to become better informed

Which phrase completes the diagram?

• Techniques of newspapers and print media

• Impact of Internet and new media

• Activities of interest groups

• Roles of political parties

Which claim is a factual statement rather than an opinion?

• “Candidate A will make voters safe and secure if elected.”

• “Candidate A has proved to be highly incompetent in office.”

• “Candidate A has been a member of Congress for three terms.”

• “Candidate A is the most well-qualified candidate for this office.”

There were three minor traffic accidents last year near Jessica’s home where Main Street crosses Palm Drive. What is the first step Jessica should take for resolving this problem?

• propose the installation of a traffic light to her city council

• write a letter to the Governor of Florida asking for his help

• start a petition to close down Main Street and Palm Drive

• research different ways of reducing traffic accidents

What has been a consequence of the “winner takes all” principle in American elections?

• The Electoral College has become unnecessary.

• Smaller political parties have greater media visibility.

• Third-party candidates have an advantage in national elections.

• Most Americans vote for candidates from one of two major parties.

Which phrase completes the chart?

• Pay income tax

• Own a house or other property

• Pass a short test on U.S. history and government

• Have a close relative who lives in the United States

“Bad officials are the ones elected by good citizens who do not vote.” What did Nathan mean by this statement?

• Most politicians are bad public servants.

• Voters do not choose their elected officials carefully.

• Citizens should refuse to vote if they don't like any of the candidates.

• A democracy needs all of its eligible citizens to participate by voting.