Chapter 11 Lesson 1

If you were a voter, what would you do to become informed before an election?

If I were a voter I would research both candidates' campaign plans and promises, and I would look at their past candidacies.

What are the two basic qualifications to vote in the United States?

In order to vote you must be a citizen, and at least 18 years of age.

Who is not allowed to vote?

People who have committed serious crimes are not eligible to vote while imprisoned. Also, people who suffer certain mental illnesses may lose their eligibility. People who are not citizens also may not vote. Anyone under the age of 18 also may not vote.

What is principle?

Principle is basic belief.

What is suffrage?

Suffrage is the right to vote.

What must people do before they vote?

They must register.

What does it mean to register?

To register means to officially sign up to vote.

What is voter turnout rate?

Voter turnout rate is percentage of eligible voters who actually vote.

How does voting affect society?

Voting affects society in that it decides an election's outcome by deciding which elected officials will be making decisions and establishing the policies that will affect the lives of the voters.

Write a journal entry as if you have just cast your first vote. Describe how you felt about voting.

Dear Journal, Today was my first day of voting! I just recently turned eight-teen and I was allowed to vote! It was a difficult decision choosing which candidate to vote for. But, since I had researched prior to voting I had made up my mind on who to vote for. The candidate I voted for matched almost all of my opinions on government, society, and other things. His campaign promises were heart-filled and convincing, and affect my community personally. I can't wait to vote again soon!

What is a ballot?

A ballot is the list of candidates for which you cast your vote.

What is apathy?

Apathy is a lack of interest.

How is apathy related to voter turnout rate?

Apathy is related to turnout rate as a lack of interest will lower voter turnout rate.

What is the polling place?

The polling place is the location where voting is carried out.

What was the 19th amendment?

The Nineteenth Amendment extended suffrage to all American women, which allowed them to vote.

What was the 26th amendment and when was it ratified?

The Twenty-sixth Amendment, ratified in 1971, lowered the voting age to 18.