Pressure Groups

What are Pressure Groups?
First Watch this Clip

WALT: Does pressure group activity help or hinder democracy?

WILFS: Can describe and explain different types of pressure groups and the methods they use (D-C)
Can list arguments for and against the idea that pressure group activity enhances democracy (C)
Can come to a supported judgement whether pressure groups enhance democracy supported by evidence and theoretical understanding (A)

Lesson Instructions

1. Stand up Hand Up Pair Up and Rally Robin all you know about pressure groups and Stand and Share
2. Read the embedded PPT and take notes
3. Quiz Quiz Trade
4. Take your Revision Twin to a computer and complete the Cloze exercise then print
5. Share N Teach
6. With your Revision Twin use the links on this page and your books to collect and list

Arguments and evidence which support the idea that pressure groups enhance democracy	Arguments and evidence which support the idea that pressure groups are bad for democracy

	7. Stand and Share your lists 8. Plenary: Mix Pair Share the following questions a) What is the difference between promotional and protective pressure groups and give examples of each b) What is the difference between insider and outsider pressure groups and give examples of each c) Why are pluralists in favour of pressure group activity and do you agree with them? d) Why do Marxists oppose pressure group activity and do you agree with them? e) What methods do pressure groups use? f) Are pressure groups good or bad for democracy? Support your answer with evidence and theory

Introduction to Pressure Groups
Do Pressure Groups Enhance Democracy?
Functions of Pressure Groups
Insider and Outsider Pressure Groups
Mechanics of Pressure Group Persuasion