JUMPSTART IN YOUR NOTEBOOK - Imagine that someone in your family chooses not to vote in elections. He or she says that a single vote does not matter because millions of people will vote. Think about what you might say to this person. Why is it important to vote? How might you persuade him or her to vote?

Unit 7: Government Civic Rights and Responsibilities

Voting is a Right The right to vote gives citizens a chance to participate in government. The 26 th Amendment says all citizens, 18 and older, may help decide who will serve in elected positions (REPUBLICANISM). Voters also make direct decisions about key issues that affect their lives. Be informed. Know the issues and the candidates platforms so that you don’t elect the wrong person.

Voting is a Civic Responsibility #1 If you don’t, you won’t help improve the government or your surroundings. #2 If you don’t, you will give up the chance to decide who will lead or how issues will be resolved. #3 You can lose it! It’s a privilege!

Voter History in Texas 15 th Amendment African American men won the right to vote in – 15 th Amendment – “Poll Tax” amendment charged between $1.50 and $1.75 per year and affected many African Americans and Mexicans. This was amended in Texas in th Amendment Women won the right to vote in th Amendment

Texas Voter Registration In the 2012 Presidential Election 5,677,201 registered voters in Texas DID NOT VOTE!

Two Ways to Get Involved Lobbying Lobbying – trying to persuade legislators to pass or defeat certain laws Special Interest Groups Special Interest Groups – a group of like-minded individuals that try to influence government policy (ex. Businesses, labor unions, teachers, minority groups, women, etc.)

Other Responsibilities Paying taxes Community planning Volunteering – Share your time! Serving on a Jury

Jury Process The person who received the case is your Jury Foreperson. Read the background information about your teen and discuss the events of the crime and leading up to it. In your groups, you will need to discuss the possible sentencing options. One or more is available. Be prepared to share your final judgment.