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American Government |
American Government is designed to be a semester long course that covers information from basic definitions and concepts of government through the American colonial experience and War of Independence focusing on the early development of the American Republic. A major portion of this class will involve an understanding of the Constitution. (Compromises involved in the creation of the document, the Articles and Amendments and how the Constitution still provides the basic framework for our government). We will use the Constitution as a guide to examine the three branches of the federal government. We will also study state, local and comparative forms of governments (Chapters 1-4,10-20).
1. For the most part, this course will be taught on a lecture-discussion basis. You will be expected to be to participate in class as well as have the ability to work individually or with others. It is imperative that you keep up with the notes and maintain an orderly notebook.
2. Read the book: American Government and complete the required homework on time.
3. Be prepared to write on various topics related to the subject at hand throughout the semester. It is my belief that you must be able to express and support your ideas in a well written coherent essay.
4. The grading scheme will adhere to the following pattern:
a) Homework counts as 15% of 9 weeks grade
b) Quiz average will count as 25% of 9 weeks grade
c) Essays will count as a either a quiz or a test depending upon the
discretion of the teacher
d) All tests will be equal in value (60% of 9 weeks average)
5. Make-up work and missed assignments are the responsibility of the student. You must have an excuse in order for make-up work to count. It is assumed that if you are absent the day of a test you will be prepared to take the test on the day you return. (you must make arrangements with the teacher)
6. Self-discipline and cooperation are necessary for the learning environment.
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