INSTRUCTIONAL GOALS

Students will study the formation of the United States Government, through an in depth study of The Constitution, and learn how Historic Governments have laid the foundation for today’s U.S. Constitutional Government.

At the end of this course, you will

• Know how and why the U.S. formed a Constitutional Government
• Address current political issues from a historical basis
• Understand the basic principles of Government
• Understand the political policy making procedures

NEEDS AND RESOURCES

Required Materials

To successfully complete this course, you will need

• Magruder’s American Government

Additional Print Resources

• Students should be familiar with credible newspapers; e.g. The New York Times

Online Resources

• Students should stay up to date on current events in the media; e.g. television news (local and international)
• Use internet resources such as CNN.com
• Be able to research legal policy using FindLaw.com
• Be familiar with Government websites; e.g. Congressional websites (House/Senate)

COURSE SCHEDULE

Please refer to the Monthly planning schedule for important dates of projects and essays

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Grading Policies:

Students will be graded on a minimum of two (2) tests per quarter, two (2) project/research papers, and class participation. Tests will not be limited to single chapters, and will most likely cover a minimum of two (2) chapters at a time. At the end of the term, students will be handing in a research paper of no less than six (6) pages. It will address key points from the class, as well as a portion of independent research. The details of the paper will be covered in four (4) separate parts, to allow students to space out their workload. It is the student’s responsibility to stay on top of their work.