1. 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

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

3. 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…

4. 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

5. 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

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

7. 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!