(30-45 minutes)

OBJECTIVE
Students analyze political cartoons portraying apathy to examine the value of voting.

MATERIALS
Political Cartoon Analysis handouts 1 and 2; Apathy Cartoons handout

• Copy the Political Cartoon Analysis forms for each student or group. Copy a political cartoon for each student or group.
• See "Voter Apathy" in the Appendix.

• Divide the class into groups of three.
• Decide which of the political cartoons each group will analyze (mix it up so different groups have different cartoons).
• Give the students time to complete the Political Cartoon Analysis 1 handout. If time allows, students can exchange cartoons and complete another analysis.
• When the forms have been completed, have the groups share their analysis with the rest of the class.
• For homework, consider giving your students the task of finding a political cartoon on their own and analyzing it with the Political Cartoon Analysis 2 handout.

• What is the purpose of these political cartoons?
• What are some reasons for voter apathy in this country?
• How do these cartoons remind us of the power of voting?
• Can these political cartoons help encourage people to vote?
• What are the responsibilities of citizens in a democracy? How can you prepare for these responsibilities?
• What can happen to a democracy when citizens are not responsible and don't use their right to vote?

MORE!
Encourage students to make their own political cartoons about any issue.

VOTE QUOTE
"The Greek word for idiot, literally translated, means 'one who does not participate in politics.' That sums up my conviction on the subject." –Gladys Pyle