Final answer:
When an interest group contacts a government official to advocate for their concerns, they are engaged in direct lobbying, which takes their message directly to the official with the aim of persuasion.
Step-by-step explanation:
When an interest group contacts an elected official regarding an issue of importance to the group, it is engaging in direct lobbying. This practice involves the interest group's message being taken directly to a government official, such as a lawmaker, with the goal of persuading the official to support the group's interests. Direct lobbying can include various tactics like testifying in legislative hearings, aiding in the drafting of legislation, and meeting with officials or government workers to provide information about specific policies or issues. It is readily distinguishable from indirect or grassroots lobbying, which involves mobilizing public pressure, including utilizing the group's members and the general public to influence government action through demonstrations, media campaigns, or other forms of public engagement.