Ch. 8 Sec. 1 and 2 (p. 185-196) Public Opinion and Polls Those attitudes held by a significant number of persons on matters of government and politics

Factors That Shape Public Opinion The Family The Schools Opinion Leaders The Mass Media Other factors -Occupation, race, gender, residence, etc.

The Measurement of Public Opinion 5 methods to measure public opinion: 1. Elections 2. Interest Groups 3. The Media 4. Personal Contacts and #5, the best way…

Public Opinion Polls Straw Vote Before the 1930’s Sought to read the public’s mind by asking the same question of a large number of people Common, random Unreliable Scientific Polling Like a chemistry experiment Take into account what you’re asking, how you ask it, and who you’re asking Scientific More reliable

How to take a poll Define the population Construct a sample Prepare valid questions Select and control the means by which the poll will be taken Report your findings

One final thought… “Public opinion polls often influence public opinion rather than measuring it.”

Things to finish in class today… Presentations are Next Thursday! 1. I will come around and collect your half page (#2 on your assignments)! 2. #4 on your assignment- prepare a list of 10 valid questions…be careful on the wording! – Bartz will pick the best poll question that you will use! 3. #5 on your assignment – HOW? Poll needs at least 40 participants! Start #6 on your assingment! – rough draft! Follow directions!