U.S. Government

This course will provide students with knowledge of United States government that will enable them to participate effectively in civic life in America. Students will examine fundamental constitutional principles; the organization of government at the federal, state, and local level; the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; the policy-making process; and the American economic system.

Upon completing this course you will be able to:

• Describe and compare important facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. government and politics.
• Explain typical patterns of political processes and behavior and their consequences (including the components of political behavior, the principles used to explain or justify various government structures and procedures, and the political effects of these structures and procedures).
• Interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics (including data presented in charts, tables, and other formats).
• Critically analyze relevant theories and concepts, apply them appropriately.

• Government Journal – In the form of a small composition notebook, a spiral notebook, or loose-leaf paper kept in a binder.
• Pencil or Pen – In order to do well in the course, you must take notes, sketch diagrams and graphs, and solve problems when instructed to do so.
• Internet Access
• Adobe Reader

Note: This course does not require a textbook.

Each semester contains 6 units and one final exam.

Each Unit contains:

• 4–5 lessons. Each lesson includes some or all of the following components: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate.
• Self-assessments to help you check your own understanding of the material covered in each lesson. You must complete these assessments in order to advance in the course.
• 2 graded assignments

The final examination is comprehensive; it covers the material from all 8 units. To pass the course, you must receive a grade of 70 percent or better. You can apply to take the Final Exam after 100 percent of your graded assignments have been submitted, and at least 70 percent have been graded and returned to you.

Format: Multiple-choice, online

Time Allowed: 3 hours

Materials Allowed: #2 pencils and scientific calculator

Topic 1: Foundations and Principles of the U.S. Constitution

Topic 2: Introduction to the U.S. Constitution

Topic 3: The Institutions of Government: The Legislative Branch

Topic 4: The Institutions of Government: The Executive Branch

Topic 5: The Institutions of Government: The Judicial Branch

Topic 6: Political Participation