Mr. Lowman
AP US Government
2014 - 2015
Course Summary and Class Procedures
This is a basic outline of the AP US Government course syllabus and other pertinent
information for this year. It would be a good idea if both you and your parents/guardians
would read this so that everybody knows what is, and what will be happening.
Course Description
The goal of the high school social studies program is to develop citizens who will be able
to participate in a culturally diverse, democratic, global society. The social studies
program provides an integrated study of history, geography, civics, economics, and
related social studies disciplines. The program emphasizes active learning strategies,
research and inquiry skills, as well as critical thinking, reading, and writing.
This course will provide students with a comprehensive under-standing of the functions and
operation of the various layers of government of the United States of America. The student
will develop analytic perspectives for interpreting, understanding, and explaining past and
current political events in the United States and, to some extent, the world community. To
accomplish these goals students will examine the following topics: The Role and Workings of
Government Within the Context of Society, Constitutional Underpinnings of the American
Political System, Political Beliefs and Behaviors, Political Parties and Interest Groups, The
Institutions of the National Government, The Creation and Implementation of Public Policy,
and Civil Rights & Civil Liberties. The A.P. United States Government and Politics course
will prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement exam. All students are expected to
take this exam.
Resources
American Government (10th edition)
James Q.Wilson & John Dilulio Jr.
McDougall Littell, 2006
Accompanying ancillary materials
American Government: Readings & Cases (14th edition)
Peter Woll
Longman Publishers, 2002
Supplemental reading and media resources
Web based resources
Class Expectations – I expect you to …
1. Have respect and responsibility for yourself, and others, at all times.
2. Bring all appropriate materials to class (chromebook, paper, pen/pencil, text, etc.).
3. Complete reading assignments for readiness in class discussions/activities.
4. Complete and submit assignments on time.
5. Follow all rules in the student handbook.
Assignment Weighted Values
Participation will account for 10% of your quarter grade.
Classwork / Homework will account for 15% of your quarter grade.
Quizzes will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Tests will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Projects will account for 25% of your quarter grade.
Missing/Late Work
Any work missed because of an unexcused absence may not be made up. Any work
missed because of an excused absence may be made up by appointment only. It is the
responsibility of the student to arrange for makeup work. Missed work should not be
made up during the class period. All assignments must be handed in on time. Late
assignments will be accepted for half credit until the completion of the chapter/unit test.
Conclusion/Contact Information
This class will be exciting, challenging, and sometimes difficult. Consequently, you may
find that you need some extra help at some time during the school year. You will need to
let me know and I will find a way to help you. If you are confused about a reading,
writing, or special assignment, please make sure to talk with me about it. I do not ever
want you to feel frustrated or confused. I am available for you before school, after
school, and outside of school. My home phone number is: (215) 554-3340. My email
address is: alowman@umtsd.org. If you have questions or a problem, please call or
email me (parents too). My goal is to make this class a successful learning experience for
all involved and to be the best educator I can be. I will do all in my power to help you...
but you must do your part, too. If you do your work, I guarantee that, together, we will
be successful. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Aaron Lowman