I think students either love or hate the pressure group topic, in both UK and US politics - it's often very popular in exams, but also often not done very well. Up-to-date knowledge is essential, as is a keen understanding of the forces at play that determine the success, or otherwise, of interest groups.

A good number of students try to rely on their knowledge of UK pressure groups when answering questions about US pressure groups. We've dug out a resource from our vault of resources to try and help with this issue.

Under Pressure

This resource is a card sorting activity in which students must sort the factors into those likely to enhance the influence/success of groups, and those that will hinder it. The resource also contains ideas for extension exercises.

Download Under Pressure (PDF)

Open Secrets

I'm also a big fan of the Open Secrets website where you can find all sorts of information such as the biggest donors to those holding power on Capitol Hill.