1. Write a paragraph describing and explaining who the American people are and how they are evolving demographically. 

2. How did you acquire the political views you hold today?  To what degree do they originate from parents, family, peers, media, church or other institutions or your own thought? Which is most influential? Explain. 

3. What is the value of polling for American democracy?  Does it help more than hurt?  Write a paragraph explaining why.

1. Describe your political ideology.  List 3 or 4 varied issues of importance to you and briefly give your view on each.  Are these liberal or conservative views or “other”?  Do you think you agree more with Republicans, Democrats, or “others”? Explain why. 

2. Why did people have such a high level of trust in the government 50 years ago? Why has that declined?  To what degree do you trust national- state- local government?  Why? 

3. Develop a public opinion survey based on three of the issues listed on p. 197.  Question  3 or 4 adults, such as parents or other people you know well(and who won't be annoyed).  Record not only their answers but the depth of their knowledge on the subject and the depth of their feelings about it. Explain your results.