Assignment Prompt: “Citizen groups” are a type of interest group which your textbook points out are “more likely than any other type to be mentioned [by lobbyists and government officials] as being influential” (WTP, p. 401). After reading Ch. 11, think of something you feel strongly about–it can be something serious like immigration, gun control, or abortion, OR something more out-of-the box or even light-hearted (As an Astros fan, I might create an interest group to lobby Congress to intervene and prevent all MLB lockouts, so the season is not delayed.). “Create” a “citizen group” (see WTP, pp. 401-403) around your chosen topic whose purpose will be to persuade Congress of the importance of your group and to pass favorable legislation. (NOTE: Obviously, there are many pre-existing interest groups on some topics that might be important to you. Try to distinguish yours from them in some way if you choose a topic that is already well-represented by interest groups.) Answer the following questions in a few, well-developed paragraphs, totaling at least 350 words. Originality, creativity, and thoughtfulness rewarded and included in the revised grading rubric! Please include a standard, MLA header on your paper with your name, course number, etc. Your title should be the name of your proposed interest group. NOTE: DO NOT RE-TYPE THIS PROMPT OR THE QUESTIONS. This should be written like a “mini-paper.” Again, write this in paragraph form without repeating the questions–just answer them! If you forget and include the prompt or questions directly, these WILL NOT count towards your word count. Just don’t do it!!!
What is the name of your group and what is its purpose/goal? (In other words, what issue are you trying to influence Congress to support?) Why is this issue important?
How will persuade people to be a part of your interest group?
How will you organize/what strategies will you choose to have the greatest influence on Congress? (The chapter is full of how interest groups influence Congress!)
Discuss several “selective benefits” members will receive for being a part of your group (be sure to categorize them using the labels used included in the WTP textbook (see WTP, pp. 404-405)).
Do you think your interest group will be successful in its endeavors?
Remember to cite your page numbers from the textbook. You may use the same format used in the prompt (ex: WTP, p. ___).
