Course Summary:
A one semester study of the American form of government and the basic principles of democracy. This class stresses the fundamental importance of the US Constitution. Topics include federalism, branches of government, political parties and the electoral process.
Class Materials Needed:
Assessment:
Students will demonstrate their comprehension of concepts through written work, oral presentation and tests.
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Homework/Classwork |
35% |
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Tests/Projects |
35% |
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Final Exams |
20% |
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Novel |
5% |
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President PowerPoint |
5% |
Course Sequence:
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Week 1-2 |
Principles of Democracy and the origins of American Government |
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Week 3 |
The Constitution |
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Week 4 |
Federalism |
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Week 5 |
Political Parties |
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Week 6 |
Voters and Voters Behavior |
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Week 7 |
The Electoral Process |
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Week 8 |
Voters and Voting Behavior |
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Week 9 |
Media, Public Opinion, Interest Groups |
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Week 10-11 |
Congress: Powers of Congress and Congress in Action |
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Week 12-13 |
Presidency: Powers of the Presidency and President in Action |
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Week 14-15 |
Judicial System |
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Week 16-17 |
State and Local Government in Action |
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White Board Formula:
Each day the students will be given the objectives for the lesson, the activity to achieve the objective and how they will be evaluated.
ELSR Integration:
Pacific Lutheran High School’s ESLR’s (Expected School-wide Learning Results), adopted curriculum, and course content standards are integrated into one cohesive unit to maximize student-learning. Each PLHS course will thus:
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- P - Give students the ability to see how their standards-based subjects put Christ first
- L - Teach and/or reinforce critical thinking and self-learning skills
- H - Prepare students to be effective communicators able to utilize technology
- S - Empower students to use their education in acts of service to their fellow man
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