Course Description:
Along with preparation for the Advanced Placement Exam on May 6th of 2019, students will develop a deeper understanding of the American political system in the 21st century. Students will study the origins of political ideology, development of political systems, and the advent of democratic institutions. Topics to be covered: 1) Foundations of American Government 2) Linking People with Government 3) Institutions of Government 4) Public Policy Issues. By the end of the class, students should have a more enriched understanding of the intricacies of the American political system, its major players, democratic processes, elections and campaigns, democratic foundations, the role of the constitution, and diversity and dynamics of political ideology.
Course Goals and Objectives:
Along with preparation for the Advanced Placement Exam on May 6th of 2019, students will develop a deeper understanding of the American political system in the 21st century. Students will study the origins of political ideology, development of political systems, and the advent of democratic institutions. Topics to be covered: 1) Foundations of American Government 2) Linking People with Government 3) Institutions of Government 4) Public Policy Issues. By the end of the class, students should have a more enriched understanding of the intricacies of the American political system, its major players, democratic processes, elections and campaigns, democratic foundations, the role of the constitution, and diversity and dynamics of political ideology.
Course Goals and Objectives:
- To fashion the mature student into responsible citizens for a new century by identifying the principles on which American government is founded, how government is structured and administered and how the American electoral process operates;
- To enhance communication skills through thoughtful discourse, study groups, conversations, both formal and informal, and through electronic and print media, where available. The student will develop an understanding of how legislatures are comprised and how they operate in conjunction with the executive branch of government;
- To focus the mature student on thinking critically, listening with discernment, and communicating with power, authority and precision. The student will focus on the powers and authority of our nation's judiciary;
- To empower the mature student, through listening, speaking, reading, and writing more carefully, to be civically empowered. In so doing, the student will be introduced to the organization of state and local government and its relationship to the concept of federalism and states' rights;
- To develop the ability to distinguish between authentic and fraudulent political rhetoric. In so doing, the student through discussions, will address contemporary political thought and its effect of the everyday lives of themselves and their families'.
- To develop the student's analytical abilities in order to successfully take the Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics exam on May 6th of 2019.