Online "Fastpolitics.com" Exercise

Instructions: Chapter Fifteen explains several ways of researching speeches, including using the Internet. In this chapter, there are many websites listed as jumping-off points for seeking information. Fastpolitics.com, one of the sites listed, specializes in political information. Rather than having to consult many sources, fastpolitics.com acts as a clearinghouse for data and greatly streamlines searches for political information. See for yourself by going to http://www.fastpolitics.com and finding the answers to the following questions:

1. What is the name of the newspaper in Maui?
2. What paper does columnist Molly Ivins write for?
3. What was the voter turnout for the national 2000 election?
4. Where is there a list of PACs (Political Action Committees, better known as lobby or special interest groups)?
5. How does one register to vote?
6. Does your local representative accept money from tobacco companies?
7. Where can one find some political cartoons?

In summary: Notice how all of this information and a whole lot more is available at one website. When researching speeches, look for directories, virtual libraries and other sites that will help you narrow your search. Chapter Fifteen has many suggestions for helpful sites that can get you started on your research.

As you begin to look around the Internet on your own, keep in mind a few guidelines about the sites you're considering using as sources. First, examine the source and check its credibility. Second, try to determine if the source is biased. Overt bias strains credibility and can ultimately hurt your speech more than help it. Third, determine if the information or document you're using is current and up-to-date. Lastly, by all means double-check to make sure the information is accurate. Nothing is more embarrassing, or bad for your grade, than presenting fallacious information as factual.