The document discusses the importance of civic participation and voting to improve the political system. While some people complain without offering solutions, the author wants to be actively involved to set a good example, especially for younger generations. The goal is to change negative views of governance while preserving civil liberties and the right to free expression.

2. My motivation to actively participate in the political
system comes mainly from the fact that we have a
generation of people that love to present complaints,
but they never bring solutions to the table. By being
active and voting and setting a better example for
younger people, we can create a better system. I
would like to change the negative outlook that some
have about their hopes for how we are governed, but I
want to keep things the same as far as our ability to
make choices and be free to express who we are, and
what we expect.

3. • Prior knowledge of Texas
1. Lone Star State
2. Alamo is in San Antonio
3. Austin is the capital of Texas
4. Bluebonnets, mockingbirds & armadillos
5. Texas is the best state among the states
• Post knowledge of Texas
1. Texas has always had a negative view of government
2. Texas’ diversity was a factor of why Texas spent less time in recession
3. Similarities and differences between the Texas and U.S. constitutions
4. Informal qualifications are more important to politicians because it determines who
is elected
5. Only $7200 with $150 per diem per year paid to legislative members!!! Texas is the
lowest paid among the 10 most populous states.
TEXAS KNOWLEDGE

4. One big important issue that our future’s
future’s future depends on is
EDUCATION! It is so important that
students begin learning how to
SURVIVE in the economy, rather than
learning how to test. Life’s tests are not
pen to paper or clicks on a computer.

5. The people of Texas stick strongly to their roots. Yes,
Texas has become more urban with increased population
and influence from other states, however there are still so
many true Texans in our state. These Texans are those that
encourage, enforce, represent, vote, politically fight, and
continue to stand their ground to make sure that Texas’
voice is heard. When federal government proposes things
that Texas disagrees with, Texas fights back. There have
been many lawsuits over issues Texas has, including but
not limited to, voting laws, funding for programs such as
the Texas Women's Health Program, and environmental
regulation issues. Texas may not always win overall, but
Texas makes itself be heard, and the squeaky wheel is
usually the one that gets the grease!
BE BOLD. BE HEARD. BE CONFIDENT AND
MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

6. LESSONS LEARNED
Texas’ sense of state pride has always set it apart from all the other states, and this
plays a key role in Texas continuing to maintain its traditionalistic and
individualistic political culture. Texans need to continue to be grounded in these
elements, and keep Texas, TEXAS FOREVER.
• VOTE. If you do not vote, you cannot assist in making a better
future for you or your children
• Stay informed and do not depend on social media to educate you
on what is going on politically. Negative opinions are often
expressed more than positive on social media, so it is important to
listen, watch and form your own opinions based on actual facts.
• Roles and powers of different officials and their position are
important in determining who to vote for, and how to vote.