Interest Groups

Lesson Plan

The role of interest groups in politics and government is a hot topic in the media today. This lesson uses the battle over school lunch ingredients to…

Overview

The role of interest groups in politics and government is a hot topic in the media today. This lesson uses the battle over school lunch ingredients to illustrate how interest groups and lobbying affect public policy. Take a side in the battle, create an interest group, and try to influence public policy.

iCivics en español! Student and class materials for this lesson are available in Spanish.

Grade Levels

  • 6-8

Learning Objectives

  • Identify three ways groups and organizations can influence the actions of government
  • Explain how individuals, public opinion, associations and groups form and carry out public policy
  • Describe the position of opposing groups on a public policy issue

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