This resource unit, developed by the University of Minnesota's Project Social Studies, introduces eighth graders to political parties and elections. Ways in which political scientists study voting behavior, sampling techniques, problems arising from interpreting findings, and the use of correlational studies are presented. The unit includes an…

This resource unit, developed by the University of Minnesota's Project Social Studies, introduces eighth graders to the legislative process. The unit uses case studies such as the Civil Rights Acts of 1960 and 1964 and attempts to change the Rules Committee in 1961. It also uses much data on background of congressmen and on distribution of…

Summarizes and reports on a large body of statistical evidence that suggests US voting patterns relate more to general attitudes and beliefs than to any substantive evaluation of policy positions. Studies reveal that voter preference often is determined by parental influence and party loyalty. Discusses possible reasons and implications. (MJP)