Compulsory Voting SHOULD WE OR SHOULDN’T WE?

Today’s Agenda  Objective: Students will be able to explain the Arguments both for and Against Compulsory Voting in the United States.  Essential Skill: C-8/ Examine information from more than one point of view  HW: 7.1 notes for tomorrow (p top). Note Sheet for Monday will go out tomorrow, On my webpage now if you want to start it

Why don’t people vote?

Voting Turnout

Compulsory Voting  Read through EITHER the PRO and CON side of the article  Highlight, annotate, and take notes on any important arguments  Be prepared to partake in a debate/discussion

Debate  Each person should try to participate once  First, Caucus together and decide on your 3 strongest arguments  Each side of the room will take a position  Begin with opening statements, then move into more of a discussion back and forth  Opening Statements for each side, then alternating responses

Discussion Questions  Do You think low voter turnout is a serious problem in the U.S. that needs to be addressed? Why or why not?  Do you think “get out the vote” campaigns such as mtv’s “rock the vote” are successful at convincing young people to vote?  Why do you think voter turnout among young people is traditionally so low?  What effect do you think forcing people to vote would have on the democratic process?  Do you think Americans would generally be in favor of or opposed to compulsory voting? Why?

Reflection  What is your personal opinion on the matter of compulsory voting?  Brainstorm ways to address the issue of low voter turnout. What are other approaches? What is the best option?  How could compulsory voting impact elections? (Think about our Voter Demographics too)