The Internet has opened up tremendous avenues for learning about Congress. The House of Representatives and Senate web sites provide instruction in the functioning of Congress, its history and current events. In addition, most members of Congress have their own web pages. Several non-partisan organizations provide relatively objective information on the members of Congress. In this assignment you will use both official and unofficial sites to learn about your member of the U.S. House of Representatives and your district.

Go to the American Voter web site (you can also try the House site now)to learn more about your Representative. Click on the "On The Job" section. Many of you already know who represents your district in the House. If you don't you can simply enter your zip code to find them. Check out the "Member Profile." Briefly describe in your essay your Representative and his/her background. Summarize the description of your district. Now go to the section "Rate Your Rep." Take the quiz to see how compatible your views are with those of your Representative. On which issues do you agree? On which issues do you disagree?

Now go to the House of Representatives web site to find your Representative's home page. Which issues seem to be most important to your Representative? Now for the important questions: Do you think your member of the House represents the interests of your district? After this research, what is your personal opinion of your representative?