Assignment:
A tradition of change: demographics and politics. 70% of students will research the continued tradition of change in TX. One of the biggest changes coming to Texas is the shift in census numbers, specifically from immigration and rising birth rates. The changing demographics have the ability to completely transform politics in our state. For this assignment, students will research our changing demographics, analyze these numbers and then describe how these changes have the potential to impact Texas politics.
Activity for Assessment:
For this assignment, we are looking at the changing face of Texans and how that change could impact local, state and country-wide politics. You will need to read/review the articles. They include charts and articles that provide information from the most recent census, graphics and information showing the demographic changes, as well as articles that give some insight into how all of this may change the political landscape of our state.
Review:
Quick Facts Texas
See Demographics Shift by Texas County BY ALEXA URA AND ANNIE DANIEL
How Texas' Shifting Demographics May Preview Larger Changes In America by MOLLY EVANS, KERA
Latinos Will Outnumber Whites in Texas by 2022. What Does That Mean for State Politics? by STEPHEN YOUNG |
Once you have done so, answer the following questions:
1.) We are still a couple of years away from the next census, but what is our most recent data telling us about the demographic changes in Texas? How have our demographics changed over the last 5-10 years? Is there a shift in age demographics as well?
2.) What are some of the reasons for the shifting populations into Texas? From the first discussion, what kind of industries are motivating the moves?
3.) What are some of the issues that would motivate minorities and the youth voting population (18+) to participate in voting? What keeps them away from the polls?
4.) Being as diverse as we are in the state, what is the value in these elected officials looking more like the people they represent? Do you think young people and minorities would be more likely to participate in politics if they are being represented by someone who looks more like them, or is this a non-issue?
5.) Based on the articles you've read, how might the minority/youth vote impact Texas politics? Does a "Hispanic Texas" automatically mean a blue one?
6.) Based on what you've read/researched, how might the shift in Texas impact the United States on the whole? Explain.
This assignment must follow MLA guidelines, be typed in Times New Roman, 12 pt. font, and be a minimum of 1000 words with a works cited page. The works cited are not included in the minimum word count. Any articles/web links given in the assignment prompt MUST be cited in your paper and works cited. Any additional research must be cited as well.