The following will assist you in your exploration of the different types of U.S. presidential commercials, the candidates and their positions on major issues.

 Step One:

Explore the different types of political ads - Visit Living Room Candidate

1. Read the introduction page.
2. Watch the "Debate 2 (Kennedy 1960) clip.
3. Click on "Type of Commercial"
4. There are seven different types of commercials.
5. Watch TWO different commercials from each type of commercial (e.g., watch two commercials from the category "Backfire", watch two from the category "biographical" etc.)
6. Respond to Question No. 1 in the Living Room Candidate Handout.
7. Watch TWO different commercials for each of the issues listed (e.g., civil rights, change, taxes, etc. -- keep in mind that many of these issues are still relevant today even though the 2008 presidential candidates' positions may be different).
8. Respond to Question No. 2 in the Living Room Candidate Handout.
9. Respond to Question No. 3 in the Living Room Candidate Handout.
      

 Step Two:

Examine the candidates position on key issues - Visit the ProCon website
      * Select two issues.  Read the information on the issues for Obama and McCain.  Write a brief description of their positions on the Issues Handout.  Use your own worlds.  Please do not quote.  If you finish early, please explore other issues.

 Step Three:

Analyze the 1st presidential debate - Visit CNNs Videos from Friday nights presidential debate.  
      * Complete Presidential Debate Handout.
 
 

Created by Deborah Corsico, Social Studies Teacher &  Liza Zandonella, Library Media Specialist. 

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