American Government (RL II)
Penncrest High School
Ms. Flexon
lflexon@rtmsd.org
Room: D115
610 – 627 – 6281
Homework listed on my web site
Class Objective
The overall objective of this semester long course is to study cover a variety of issues and topics related to
American government and politics. We will learn about the relationship between the federal government and
the states; study the role of political parties; examine what is political power and how it is acquired; analyze
our electoral system; review the roles of each branch of government; and explore questions related to the role
of the media and other influences in shaping and measuring public opinion.
Materials
This class will use the text, Magruder’s American Government. While this is the major source for this class,
other materials will also be used including handouts and readings. All assignments and tests/ quizzes are to
be completed to the best of your ability and you should always take pride in what you hand in for a grade.
For this class you will need to bring all materials everyday unless I say otherwise. You will need your
assigned textbook (online), ear buds and your Ipad. We will be incorporating use of the Ipads during the
course.
Grades
Your grade for this class is based on your performance in the following areas: class assignments, homework
assignments, tests, quizzes, and projects. Your grade will also be affected by the department final
examination. Grades are based on Rose Tree Media’s standards as found in your student handbook. Do
keep in mind that final grades for the year are numerically averaged, using the averages from each quarter
and the exam grade. Do your personal best and you will succeed. Opportunities for extra- credit do arise,
and it is highly suggested that you take advantage of them when offered. There will not be any last minute
extra-credit work at the end of a marking period. Do not ask.
Make up work policy is as follows and will be different for projects. If you are absent from school and it is
an EXCUSED absence, all work is to be made up in a reasonable amount of time. Do find out what class
work you missed you should consult the calendar on my website, or the blue book in class upon your return
to school. Any homework assignments are also listed on my webpage. There is no excuse for not knowing
the assignments, because you can always check my web site for the homework and I expect you to do so.
Assignments are expected to be completed on time. Work missed due to UNEXCUSED absences/ lateness
will receive no credit.
Questions on Graded Assignments
Most concerns students have regarding grades or assignments cannot be answered in the few minutes
before or after class. If a student needs to speak to me about grades, assignments, or any other topic the best
time is afterschool, during my prep period or duty period, or in the first 10 minutes of my lunch period.
Students should come alone to discuss their grades and or concerns.
2015-2016 School Year
Library Duty- 1st Period
My lunch- A Lunch
Prep Period- 8th Period
Every day after school
Technology Rules in the Classroom
We will use many types of technology in the classroom. Students are expected to use the technology
appropriately. Many of the applications can be presented on the Smart Board, and are visible to the entire
class. It is imperative that students are appropriate in their comments, responses and on any written
or visual presentation.
Appropriate Use of Technology:
 Note Taking on Laptops or Ipads
 Use of Ipads to Calendar Events/Assignments
 Use of Devices to Complete Quick Google Searches for Pertinent Information
 Completing all Google Classroom Assignments
 Use their correct name on all digital assignments; i.e. Socrative, Google Templates and all other
technology applications.
 Making appropriate comments on interactive technology; i.e. Socrative, Blogs, any communication
streams.
If students engage in the “inappropriate” use of electronics within the class, the students will serve a
detention and their right to use these devices in the future could be removed.
Inappropriate Use of Technology Within the Classroom:
 Texting Your Friends or Reading Texts While in Class
 Sending or Reading Personal Emails
 Surfing the Net for Non Class Purposes.
o Checking in with Facebook or other Social Media, Shopping Online During Class, Reading
Online Information not Connected to the Class Materials and Topics.
 Making inappropriate comments or using inappropriate material on any digital assignment or
applications. Examples; Socrative, Google Classroom, Google Documents, and or Presentations.
 Not using their proper name on interactive applications like Socrative.
All students must check the box below and type their name to confirm they have reviewed the syllabus
and technology rules.
___________ I have read and understand the information as outlined in the syllabus. I agree to the
technology rules in the classroom and sections on grades and questions.
Type your full name _________________________________________________.