Prerequisite:
United States History (AP Suggested)
Description:
This course follows the syllabus of the Advanced Placement United States Government curriculum of the College Board. Emphasis is placed on developing skills that will enable students to conceptualize and explain complex issues related to individual rights and responsibilities, political parties and party politics, the system of separation of powers, and checks and balances. Instruction emphasizes analysis, synthesis and interpretation of major historical issues and documents. Course content includes a study of the structure and the framework of the government with an emphasis on the historical rationale of the principles embodied in the Construction. American foreign policy, the federal bureaucracy, economics and grass roots governments are also component parts of the curriculum. Students are helped to develop decision-making skills that are based on values inherent in our democratic society. The course textbook, supplemental reading materials, class assignments, activities and discussions are used to induce reflective thinking. Class instruction in this course is designed to prepare the student for college level study. This course is provided for students possessing excellent reading and communication skills. Students will be required to take the College Board Advanced
Placement exam upon completing this course.
Main Topics:
What is government?
Foundations of the American political system and the U.S. Constitution
The U.S. Constitution
Federalism
Citizenship and civil liberties (roles, rights and responsibilities)
The election process
Influencing government
Organization of powers of the national government
State and local government
Comparative governments and economics
Practical citizenship
CREDIT INFO: This course provides one of the credits required for a Standard or Advanced
Studies Diploma. Students will take the College Board Advanced Placement exam at the end of this course.