1. Linkage Institutions Civil Society Groups

2.   Groups of like-minded individuals who share similar beliefs who organize to win elections, operate government, and determine public policy.  Roles of Political Parties: 1. Nominate candidates 2. Influence policy by formulating platform 3. Inform citizens 4. Keep the majority party in check Political Parties

3.  Political Party Systems  Single-party system  Two-party system  Multi-party system

4.  Advantages/ Disadvantages of each type of party system At your tables, come up with two for each type of party system.

5.   A group of like-minded members who actively carry on programs to influence government officials and policies. Usually focus on one issue.  US: Pluralist System of Interest Groups  Examples:  American Medical Association  Chamber of Commerce of the US  National Potato Council  American Mushroom Institute  Sierra Club  National Association for the Advancement of Colored People  American Federation of Teachers Interest Groups

6.   You will spend the next 15 minutes researching and then comparing the party platforms for 1 major political party and 2 minor parties on the following issues:  1. The economy  2. The environment  3. National security  Links to the party sites can be found on my Haiku page – US political parties. Take notes and be ready to share out. Research – Political Parties in the US