HOW DOES VOTING WORK IN IRISH DEMOCRACY? 24 REFLECT ON YOUR LEARNING UNDERSTAND
1. Explain the difference between a) representative democracy and b) direct democracy. 2. In what year did Ireland extend voting rights to all citizens over 18? 3. Write a brief description of what happens in: (a) a general election
(b) a local election (c) a presidential election.
4. What would cause a bye-election to be called? 5. Name and explain two methods of campaigning a candidate might use during an election. 6. What does ‘proportional representation’ mean? 7. Explain the following election terms: (a) Quota (b) Total valid poll
(c) Surplus (d) Spoiled ballot
(e) Ballot paper
8. If 365,000 valid votes are cast in a three-seat constituency, what will the quota be? 9. What does a referendum vote involve? 10. Name two decisions recently made by referendum vote in Ireland. 11. What is the Citizen’s Assembly?
DISCUSS
Have a short discussion (5–10 minutes) in pairs or groups on whether Irish citizens living abroad should be allowed to vote in Irish general elections.
Listen to each other carefully and note down any good points that you had not considered.
Report back to your teacher and the class on what you discussed and whether you mostly agreed or disagreed, stating why.
RESPONSE JOURNAL
REFLECT Visit page 97 of your Response Journal to complete your end-of-topic reflection and see how your knowledge has developed.
