This inquiry leads students through an investigation of campaign finance by examining election costs, expenditures, and the complex relationships between candidates and political-action committees. By investigating the compelling question “Does money matter in political campaigns?” students dissect contemporary political campaigns in order to assess whether or not campaign-finance reform should take place. In investigating contemporary evidence on campaigns and campaign finance, students develop an understanding of who is funding political campaigns and evaluate the extent to which campaign funding is problematic.
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About the inquiry
Compelling Question
Does Money Matter in Political Campaigns?
Staging Question
Analyze correspondence between political parties and corporations/CEOs to determine if funding is tied to political favors.
1
Supporting QuestionHow much does it cost to become a member of Congress?
Formative TasksList how much money members of Congress spent on their last campaigns.
SourcesSource A: Current members of the 114th Congress, 2015
Source B: Interactive campaign-finance map
2
Supporting QuestionWhere do politicians get their campaign contributions?
Formative TasksWrite 1–2 paragraphs explaining the ways that individuals and companies can donate to political candidates.
SourcesSource A: Interactive guide to political donations
Source B: Interactive congressional races
Source C: Video clip from The Colbert Report
3
Supporting QuestionHow do super PACs play a role in political campaigns?
Formative TasksCreate a graphic organizer that defines super PACs and explains their role in political campaigns.
SourcesSource A: “Civics in a Minute”: What is a Super PAC?
Source B: Supreme Court Ruling Campaign Finance
Source C: “Super PAC Mania”
4
Supporting QuestionShould the government limit contributions to political campaigns?
Formative TasksWrite a claim with evidence that answers the supporting question.
SourcesSource A: “ The Cost of Campaigns”
Source B: Colbert Super PAC—Trevor Potter
Source C: Collection of essays on campaign finance
Summative Performance Task
Argument: Does money matter in political campaigns? Construct an argument (e.g., detailed outline, poster, essay) that addresses the compelling question using specific claims and relevant evidence from contemporary sources while acknowledging competing perspectives.
Extension: Create a public service announcement that addresses students’ stances on campaign-finance reform.
Taking Informed Action
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