Great Basin College
Course Syllabus
PSC 101: Introduction to American Politics
3 Semester Credits
Section 1008
Fall 2015
Location/Time:
Online - WebCampus
Class Duration:
August 31st to October 24th, 2015 (Class is only 8 weeks long!)
Instructor:
Rick Mackey, B.A., M.A.
Contact:
Email address: Rick.Mackey@gbcnv.edu
Office Phone: 775-753-2348
If you need to contact me, please feel free to do so at your
convenience. I check my email and my office phone at least once a
day for any messages.
Office Hours
Monday
Morning
By Appointment
Tuesday
Wednesday
10:00am-noon
By Appointment
Thursday
Friday
By Appointment
By Appointment
Afternoon
Noon-1:00pm
2:30pm to 4:00pm
By Appointment
Noon-1:00pm
2:30pm to 4:00pm
By Appointment
By Appointment
Catalog Description:
PSC 101: Introduction to American Politics—A survey of United States, national, state,
and local governments with emphasis on the cultural aspects of the governing process.
Satisfies the legislative requirement for the United States and Nevada Constitutions.
(Formerly PSC 103, Principles of American Constitutional Government).
Course Description:
Do you know why the elephant is the symbol of the Republican Party and the donkey
represents the Democratic Party? Did you know that political parties, candidates, and
interest groups can determine how you will vote based on the food you eat, the soft
drinks and beer you drink, and the vehicle you drive? This introductory class examines
the basic principles of American and state government such as power, authority,
legitimacy, and force. Current events, popular culture examples, documentaries, and
online and multimedia resources are used to complement the readings.
The course will study numerous aspects of American government and key participants
and influences in the political arena. Topics to be covered include: U.S. and Nevada
Constitutions, the Presidency, Congress, the Supreme Court, federal court system,
voting, socialization process, political parties, interest groups, and the media. We will
also be examining a number of current political events, governmental actions, and
public policy decisions as part of the weekly Bulletin Board Discussions (BBDs). At the
beginning of each week, the following course materials will be provided:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Student learning objectives and outcomes for each chapter.
Chapter focus and main points.
Chapter summary.
Major concepts and key terms.
Lecture outline.
Chapter PowerPoints.
Online web links, resources, videos, and documentaries to supplement assigned
readings.
These materials are available to you on WebCampus under Modules, Discussions, and
Goals. Ongoing emails and announcements will be made throughout the course.
Required Textbook:
Required
 Joseph Losco and Ralph Baker. 2015-2016. AM GOV. New York: McGraw-Hills.
(ISBN: 978-1-259-28426-7).

Bowers, Michael W. 2006. The Sagebrush State: Nevada’s History, Government,
and Politics (4th Edition). University of Nevada Press. (ISBN: 978-0-87417-923-1).
Recommended
Quick Study Guides Available Through GBC Book Store:
U.S. Government
U.S. Constitution
Political Science
Additional reading materials will be distributed in class via WebCampus and/or placed
on reserve in the GBC Library.
Grading Policy and Point System:
Grades will be based on the following:
Assignments
Four (4) examinations (60 points each)
Four (4) BBDs and Syllabus/Rubric Quiz (20 points each)
Grading Scale
Percent %
94-100
90-93
87-89
83-86
80-82
77-79
Letter
A
AB+
B
BC+
Percent %
73-76
70-72
67-69
63-66
60-62
<60
Letter
C
CD+
D
DF
Attendance and Class Participation
Participation in Bulletin Board Discussions (BBDs) is essential for the final class grade.
Since the class does not meet face-to-face, timely responses to the BBDs are
mandatory. CHECK WEBCAMPUS FOR EMAILS, ANNOUNCEMENTS, AND THE
WAR ROOM DAILY FOR ONGOING CLASS COMMUNICATIONS AND
DISCUSSIONS. Participation in the assigned group activities will also count toward
class participation.
General Education Objectives & Select Student Learning Outcomes
General education objectives can be referenced on page 54 of the GBC Catalog. It is
the goal of the faculty at GBC that all students that graduate with either an associate’s
or bachelor’s degree from this institution have had the opportunity presented to them
during their attendance to have acquired ability and awareness with the following
objectives:
OBJECTIVE 1: COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Communicate clearly and effectively in written and oral form, embracing discussion,
reading, listening, and accessing information.
OBJECTIVE 2: CRITICAL THINKING
Integrate creativity, logic, quantitative reasoning, and the hierarchy of inquiry and
knowing in social scientific understanding. There are three elements to this objective:
Quantitative Ability: Understand mathematical principles and integrate quantitative
methods into problem solving.
Reasoning and Independent Thought: Use logic and visual thinking in selecting,
analyzing, and presenting information.
Scientific Understanding: Understand the essential workings of natural systems,
understand the hierarchy of scientific knowing and the use of the scientific method in its
pursuit, and have the ability to use this knowledge predicatively.
OBJECTIVE 3: PERSONAL/CULTURAL AWARENESS
Understand the roles of individuals in society, the development of human societies, and
the significance of creativity in the human experience.
Sense of the Individual in Society: Recognize and respect the rights of the individual,
and possess an appreciation of the complexity and variety of the divergent attitudes,
values, and beliefs in society.
Sense of the Past: Understand the cultural and historical heritage of contemporary
society, and be able to thoughtfully consider the implications of this heritage.
Sense of Accountability: Appreciate the consequences of human actions in social and
environmental contexts, and have the ability to consider the ethical and practical
implications of those actions.
Appreciation of Fine Arts: Recognize and value creative human expression.
OBJECTIVE 4: PERSONAL WELLNESS, GROWTH, & RESPONSIBILITY
Develop knowledge, skills, and behaviors which promote personal well being.
OBJECTIVE 5: TECHNOLOGICAL UNDERSTANDING
Function effectively in modern society through the use of technology.
Student Learning Outcomes
Additional student learning outcomes for each chapter are posted on WebCampus.
Upon the successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Learning Outcome
1. Define politics and
civic engagement by
explaining importance
in American society.
2. List and explain
significance of the
major constitutional
principles.
3. Explain president’s
influence over public
opinion and
government’s policy
agenda.
4. Explain role of
Congress, committee
structure, and role in
making public policy.
5. Understand
evolution of the
Supreme Court as a
policymaker and the
Measurement
Bulletin Board Discussion #1 and #4
Exams #1, #2, #3, and #4
Example: The text emphasizes the importance of an engaged citizenry in
making democracy meaningful. Each chapter concludes with a “National
Journal” article that highlights the relationship between an informed
citizenry and government.
Example: After watching the documentary “Street Fight” and reading
Chapter 7 on political participation, the student will write a response
describing how they are involved in the community and discuss whether or
not their participation makes a difference in the public policymaking
process.
Bulletin Board Discussion #1
Exam#1
Example: After reading and discussing the foundations of American
democracy, determining the influence of the philosophers during the
Enlightenment on the Founding Fathers, assessing the strengths and
weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation, and examining the factors
associated with constitutional change, students will highlight the
importance of the separation of powers and checks and balances.
Example: Based on the discussion regarding the foundations of American
democracy and events leading up to the Constitutional Convention,
students will write a response that explores similar factors and
contemporary conditions that would justify the need to convene a
Constitutional Convention in the modern era.
Bulletin Board Discussion #3
Exam#4
Example: The class will be introduced to a variety of PBS video clips that
demonstrate presidential powers, roles, and styles. Based on these clips
and class discussions, students will write a response that outlines the
strengths and weaknesses of the Executive Office, provides a definition of
“presidential greatness,” and discusses the economic and political
conditions that impacts decisions.
Exam #3
Example: The exam will measure the students’ knowledge related to the
origin and powers of Congress in Article I, resources required to get
elected, incumbent advantages, responsibilities and benefits, keys to
political power, and committee structure.
Bulletin Board Discussion #2
Exam #1 and #3
Example: Students will be able to diagram the U.S. Court System and
understand the nature of decisions made by the courts. The www.oyez.org
civil rights and liberties
of individuals.
6. Itemize primary
functions of a political
party and role in
elections.
7. Review roles and
influence of interest
groups and lobbyists.
8. Define primary
characteristics of
Nevada’s political
interests and
governmental
structure.
9. Utilize online
resources, popular
culture examples,
current events, and
documentaries to
critically analyze the
governing process and
participants.
10. Understand
political agendas,
platforms, and biases
associated with
interest groups,
media, political
parties, and elections.
website, U.S. Supreme Court website, and “The History and Functions of
the U.S. Supreme Court” documentary will assist in demonstrating judicial
activism and restraint in landmark decisions.
Bulletin Board Discussion #3
Exam #3
Example: After discussing Chapter 9: Parties and Political Campaigns
and using the website www.270towin.com regarding the electoral college,
students will be able to identify voting groups needed to win presidential
election from 1789 to 2008.
Bulletin Board Discussion #2
Exam#2 and #4
Example: After watching the documentary “Karl Rove: The Architect” and
researching the Center for Responsive Politics website for campaign
financing, students will determine the level of influence exerted by interest
groups, PACs, and 527s. Students will also research and report on an
interest group.
Bulletin Board Discussion #1 through #4
Exams #4
Example: Using a Nevada Constitution Study Guide, The Sagebrush
State, and state websites for the three branches, students will learn about
the primary roles and functions of state government.
All Bulletin Board Discussions and Exams.
Example: Online resources such as C-SPAN, YouTube, and Politico as
well as government websites and video documentaries will be introduced
throughout the semester to complement the readings. Students will make
connections between the readings and these supplementary resources.
Emphasis on BBD# 2, #3,; and Exam #2
All Bulletin Board Discussions and Exams.
Example: Students will be required to research the two major political
parties and minor third parties to determine their policy preferences and
platforms.
Example: Students will take an online test provided by the Pew Research
Center, assess their placement on the political spectrum, and plot political
linkage institutions on the spectrum.
Course Assignments, Content, & Schedule:
There are four examinations that cover numerous aspects of American government and
key participants and influences in the political arena, including Bulletin Board
Discussions that count for class participation. THIS IS NOT A SELF-PACED COURSE.
If you have a question regarding any of the assignments or materials for this course, I
make every attempt to respond to you within 12-hours.
A. Examinations & Quizzes:
The take home examinations will be posted to WebCampus and due according to the
instructions posted by the instructor. Examinations and quizzes consist of multiple
choice, true-false questions, and essay questions. Taking the examination and quizzes
is an individual exercise, and collaboration with others is not permissible.
B. Seminar Participation/Bulletin Board Discussions:
Class participation and postings to the Bulletin Board Discussions are mandatory. It
needs to be stressed that since the class does not physically meet on a weekly basis,
BBDs count as weekly participation. Respond to the weekly bulletin board prompts and
questions. Appropriate citations and references to textbooks and online resources
are expected. Student responses are subject to random screening using
plagiarism detection software. Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty and
could result in removal from class.
Responses should be thoughtful, concise, and in your own words. Additionally,
responses must be based in the required readings in AM GOV, The Sagebrush State,
and relevant online resources introduced in class. Cite the materials. Refer to the BBD
Participation Rubric on WebCampus for posting criteria.
WEEKLY TIMELINE & DUE DATES (REFER TO LAST TWO-PAGES OF SYLLABUS)
Unless otherwise noted, weekly BBD postings and responses follow timeline
below:
1. BBD prompt posted by instructor on Monday mornings.
2. BBD responses posted on Monday morning are due by Sunday at 11:59 p.m.
3. Late BBD responses ARE NOT accepted.
In order to earn the maximum number of points, responses should be at least 750
words. Ongoing bulletin board discussions (BBD) are recorded as class participation.
Wikipedia and similar online encyclopedias are not acceptable and if used will
result in failing the assignment.
Using appropriate net etiquette, you are encouraged to respond to other weekly BBD
postings and contribute in The War Room: Current Events & Popular Culture BBD
where current political events and government activities will be discussed. Online
resources will be posted related to the weekly Bulletin Board Discussions (BBDs) as the
semester progresses. Refer to the last two pages of the syllabus for specific BBD
and exam due dates.
C. Important college and classroom policies:
1. Policy of Academic Integrity
Academic honesty is expected in this course and all college courses. Acts such as
cheating and plagiarism are violations of the Nevada System of Higher Education
(NSHE) Code of Conduct as well as violations of the standards of intellectual
dishonesty. All student work must be original and authentic. Any acts of cheating,
copying, and/or plagiarizing are violations of the NSHE Code of Conduct and will be
taken seriously. Students who cheat, copy another’s work, or plagiarize from the
Internet or other sources are subject to consequences ranging from dismissal from and
failure of a class to dismissal from the college. Tutors are available in the GBC
Academic Success Center for assistance with appropriate documentation and citations.
2. Student Conduct Policy
Messages, attitudes, or any other form of communication deemed to be outside the
bounds of common decency/civility as judged by common standards of classroom
behavior (determined, as they would be in a regular classroom, by the instructor) will not
be tolerated. The behavior of GBC students, as a member of the NSHE, is governed by
GBC and NSHE Code. Misconduct, as defined and established in the NSHE Code, Title
II, Chapter 6, Section 6.2.2 and the above misconduct as defined by GBC, is subject to
Disciplinary Sanctions as defined by NSHE Code, Title 2.
3. Class Disruptions
Cell phones and other multimedia devices disrupt class and need to be turned off,
stored away, and out of sight. Text messaging is not allowed. Check with me if there are
special circumstances that require you to have your phone on during class. Coming to
class late is also disruptive. Habitual lateness and leaving the classroom during the
lectures is not acceptable and considered disruptive. Disruptive behavior will result in
being removed from class.
4. Accommodations for Students with Disabilities (ADA Statement)
Great Basin College is committed to providing equal educational opportunities to
qualified students with disabilities in accordance with state and federal laws and
regulations, including the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973. A qualified student must furnish current verification of
disability. The Director of Services for Students with Disabilities, Julie G. Byrnes, will
assist qualified students with disabilities in securing the appropriate and reasonable
accommodations, auxiliary aids and services. For more information or further
assistance, please call 775.753.2271.
PSC 101: Introduction to American Politics Tentative Course Schedule
The following is the schedule for the Fall 2015 semester, including bulletin board
discussions, examinations, quizzes, and assigned materials. Refer to WebCampus for
assigned political documentaries and online resources.
You should also be aware the GBC policy dictates that there will be no official class
withdrawals after sixty percent of the class is completed. This means that the last
possible date to drop the class is October 1st. If the class has not been dropped by this
date, a letter grade will be given to the student.
Week
Week 1
Aug. 31
Readings
AM GOV - Losco & Baker
Introductions
Overview of Expectations
Chapter 1: Citizenship in Our
Changing Democracy
Chapter 2: The Constitution: The
Foundation of Citizen’s Rights
Week 2 Chapter 3: Federalism:
Sept. 7
Citizenship and the Dispersal of
Power
Other Materials
The Sagebrush
State - Bowers
Political
Documentary
Chapter 1: Nevada
Origins & Early
History
Street Fight
Chapter 2: Nevada
Territory &
Statehood (Nevada
ConstitutionAppendices)
Chapter 3: Civil
Rights & Liberties
in Nevada
Chapter 4: Civil Liberties
Week 3
Sept. 14
Week 4
Sept. 21
Chapter 5: Civil Rights: Toward a
More Equal Citizenry
Chapter 6: Public Opinion:
Listening to Citizens
Chapter 7: Political Participation
Chapter 8: Interest Groups in
America
Week 5 Chapter 9: Parties and Political
Sept. 28 Campaigns: Citizens and the
Electoral Process
Week 6
Oct. 5
Chapter 10: Media: Tuning In or
Tuning Out
Chapter 11: Congress: Doing the
People’s Business
Chapter 12: The Presidency:
Power & Paradox
Chapter 10: State &
Local Finance
What is Politics?:
The First Day of
Class
Date Posted
Due Date
BBD #1
Monday
Aug. 31
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Sept. 6
11:55 p.m.
SYLLABUS
QUIZ
The Making of the
Constitution
The Bill of
Rights: A Living
Document
EXAM #1
Thursday
Sept. 10
Bill of Rights:
Bill of
Responsibility
Who Counts?:
Election Reform
in America
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Sept. 13
11:55 p.m.
BBD #2
Monday
Sept. 14
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Sept. 20
11:55 p.m.
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Sept. 27
11:55 p.m.
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Oct. 4
11:55 p.m.
Chapter 5: Interest
Groups &
Lobbying
The Secrets of
Body Language
EXAM #2
Thursday
Sept. 24
6:00 a.m.
Chapter 4: Political
Parties & Elections
Karl Rove: The
Architect
BBD #3
Monday
Sept. 28
Chapter 6: The
Nevada
Legislature
Ken Burns
Congress
EXAM #3
Thursday
Oct. 8
6:00 a.m.
Chapter 7: The
Nevada Executive
Mandate: The
President and the
People
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Oct. 11
11:55 p.m.
Week 7 Chapter 13: Bureaucracy:
Oct. 12
Citizens as Owners and
Consumers
Chapter 14: The Courts: Judicial
Power in a Democratic Setting
Week 8 Chapter 15: Public Policy:
Oct. 19
Responding to Citizens
Chapter 16: Foreign & Defense
Policy: Protecting American
Interests in the World
Chapter 9: City &
County
Governments
Chapter 8: The
Nevada Judiciary
Chapter 11:
Nevada: Past,
Present, & Future
The Supreme
Court PBS Series
1.
One
Nation
Under Law
2.
A New
Kind of
Justice
3.
Nation
of
Liberties
4.
The
Rehnquist
Revolution
State of Nevada
Constitution
Video - The
Silver State
Nevada
Government
Study Guide
BBD #4
Monday
Oct. 12
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Oct. 18
11:55 p.m.
EXAM #4
Thursday
Oct. 22
6:00 a.m.
DUE
DATE
Sunday
Oct. 25
11:55 p.m.