Lesson on Wednesday, March 7, 2018

Aim: How can we assess the elements that characterize Congress as a pluralist or majoritarian system?

Bell Ringer: Grade journals 71-80

Objectives: 

11.7 Consider whether members of Congress should vote according to the majority views of their constituents. 

11.8 Assess the elements that characterize Congress as a pluralist or majoritarian system. 

Agenda:

1. Let's review journal 78 (trustee vs delegates)

"Research has shown, however, that members of Congress are more likely to take the delegate role on issues that are of great concern to their constituents." page 319

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Arab Spring (11.8)

"When legislators act as delegates, congressional policymaking is  more pluralistic, and policies reflect the bargaining that goes on among lawmakers who speak for different constituencies." page 319

2. Will the Middle East end up with a majoritarian or pluralist model of democracy?

2a. Arab Spring Map: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QVCeCQnpHC0 (1 min)

2b. Understanding Arab Spring Struggle and Successes https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DTDQa9gxjiQ (9 min)

3. Journal 82 - Which, if any, features of the emerging legislatures in Tunisia and Egypt will encourage majoritarianism? Which features will encourage pluralism? What challenges might the new legislatures face when trying to balance freedom and order? What about balancing order and equality?

Terms to know: reapportionment, impeachment, incumbent, gerrymandering, racial gerrymandering, veto, standing committee, joint committee, select committee, conference committee, seniority, Speaker of the House, majority leader, filibuster, cloture, constituents, trustee, delegate, parliamentary system. 

Home Learning: 

1. Complete Chapter 11 IDs (due tomorrow)

2. Study Chapter 11 Vocabulary / Quiz: tomorrow. 

3. Complete the notes given in class on Congressional Committees. The first section covers the video below.