Sam took good notes on the purpose and effect of third parties. Specifically, we looked at the impact of Ross Perot's candidacy on the Bush/Clinton election, and the impact of Ralph Nader's candidacy on the Bush/ Gore election. These candidates often bring attention to an issue,but serve as "spoilers" influencing the result of elections. I then outlined on the whiteboard the terms "voter turn out" and "voter apathy" and commented on the impact of voter apathy on a democratic system of government. For example, in the last presidential election ,only about 58-60% of eligible voters participated. Sam outlined all of the amendments to the Constitution that expanded voting rights. Sam's homework on voting requirements and registration was complete and well done. During our second hour, we expanded on the issue of voting rights by discussing the National Voter Registration Act , and Florida's closed primary system i.e. the requirement that a registered voter be a member of a party to vote in that party's primary. Last, we examined a sample ballot from the last election, and Sam identified the major party candidates, independent candidates, and third party candidate. For homework, I assigned reading pages 303-308,and questions 1,2, and 4.