There’s no such thing as a “Mother Bull.” Bulls are male, not female. October 31, 2011 Monday BELLWORK: If a father bull drinks 4 gallons of water a day and a baby bull drinks 2 gallons of water, how many gallons of water does a mother bull drink a day? There’s no such thing as a “Mother Bull.” Bulls are male, not female. OBJECTIVE: SWBAT understand and explain the 5 functions of Political Parties in the United States AGENDA: Chapter 5 – Section 1 Guided Notes (5 Functions of Political Parties)

Chapter 5 – Section 1 Guided Notes “5 Functions of Political Parties” Political Party – Group of people who seek to control government through winning elections and holding public office. Coalition – A union of people with diverse interests who come together in order to get a candidate elected to public office

Function # 1 – Nominating Function Recruit potential candidates for office Name candidates for public office (primaries) Gather support for votes

Function # 2 – Informer Function Inform people Inspire citizens to vote for a candidate Take positions on key issues Criticize opponents Attract as many voters as possible

Function # 3 – “Seal of Approval” Function Ensure good performance of candidate Choose qualified candidates with good moral character Ensure candidates do a good job or else they will not be re-elected

Function # 4 – Governing Function The parties bridge the gaps between the three branches of government. Limits the choice to a few alternatives, rather than a confusing variety of candidates.

Fuction # 5 – Watch-dog Function Criticizes the policies and behavior of party in power. Ensures “appropriate” conduct of party in power Attempts to convince voters to elect a different party candidate next time. Opposes the current government while remaining loyal to people and nation.