10–15% of the AP exam. Key topics: Political socialization: family, school, media, peers, religion, geography as agents, Public opinion: formation, measurement, and influence on policymaking, Polling methodology: random sampling, sampling error, margin of error, question wording effects, response bias, Political ideology: liberal vs. conservative positions across policy domains, Political spectrum: left-right continuum; libertarian and authoritarian dimensions, Linkage institutions: political parties, interest groups, elections, and media as channels between citizens and government, Media influence: agenda-setting, framing, priming in political opinion formation, Government's role in economic policy: differing ideological perspectives, Social policy positions and ideological cleavages (abortion, gun control, immigration), Generational and demographic differences in political opinion.
Study guide content for this unit is being prepared. Check back soon for complete lesson notes, formula sheets, and worked examples.
