American Government
Torrey Pines High School
Instructor: Peter Evans

Note: Please print a copy of this syllabus and sign it. Also please have your parent sign and turn in to the instructor.

I. Introduction:

American Government is a one semester course that meets regularly on odd-even days.  It examines the origins of the American constitutional system, analyses the structure and function of modern American government and politics, and explores the role of the citizen in a representative democracy. This course meets California Social Science Standards, graduation and college entrance requirements.

II. Technical Requirements for this Course:

A portion of this course will consist of on-line assignments provided through a program called Blackboard at blackboard.sduhsd.net. It  will require the following technical requirements:

• Set aside time to access a computer at the school computer lab OR have a home computer with Internet access. If you choose to use a computer at home it should have the following configurations:
  • PC with Pentium II Processor and Windows 98 or higher, or Macintosh with Power PC Processor and system 9.04 or higher
  • 128 MB RAM, Color monitor
  • Direct Internet connection or 56K modem with Internet access
  • A current Web browser (Netscape Communicator 4.61 or higher, or Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.0 or higher
    

• The following is a list of typical characteristics of students who would be successful in completing a course of this type:
  • Can work independently
  • Can follow basic instructions without assistance from a teacher
  • Often gets assignments done ahead of time
  • Is a self-starter and finisher
  • Feels comfortable using simple Internet based instructions
  • Has a computer with an Internet connection 
  • Proficient at using e-mail

III. Course Readings:

Text: West's American Government (ITP). Text available in Bookroom
Supplementary readings derived from varied sources and provided either in class or on the course website...

IV. Course Outline

Each topic is approximately 1-2 weeks in length and is based on the Text chapters. Chapters are not necessarily covered in the following order and there is frequent information overlap. The entire semester of American Government assignments is available on-line.  Students who wish to get ahead may do so.  Bring on-line assignments to class for in-class instruction and review. 

V. Grading and Assignments:

A percentage point system is used.

90% = A, 80% = B, 70% = C, 60% = D, Below 60%, no credit earned

Progress report grades are calculated approximately every five weeks. Quarter Grades are mailed home every ten weeks. The semester grade is based on a weighted average of points earned over the entire semester -- including a  final exam (worth 20% of the semester grade). Personal grades can be reviewed on a regular basis through eclassinfo.com.  Reminder: You must pass this course in order to graduate and in order to walk in the graduation ceremony as a Senior. 

You are responsible for the following:

Unit Exams:  Unit Exams are taken in class according to the on-line Schedule.  They must be made up the second class day after an excused absence. If you fail to meet this deadline you will be permitted to make-up only one unit exam at the end of each quarter.

Quizzes / Chapter Exams: All quizzes and chapter exams will be completed and turned in on-line.  They will go live the week that they are due.  Take them when you are ready during that time.  There are no make-ups for missed quizzes or chapter exams.

Homework: Due in class on the day scheduled.  Excused work is due the day after you return to class. Long term illness or extended excused absences will be handled on an individual basis. Start on assignments as early in the week as possible so that any problems or questions which arise can be resolved before the due date.  Don't be afraid to ask for help - the earlier the better. 

Projects and Reports: A variety of mini oral and written research projects are part of this course. Topics and deadlines are posted on-line.

Class Participation: Each student will be evaluated on their degree of daily preparation and level of participation in class discussion and group activity. 

VI. Strategies for Success:

A. Reading assignments:

• Skim chapter first to see what will be covered.
• Read chapter in detail. Turn bold headings into questions and look for answers. Mark items you don't understand and come back to them later.
• Reread through the chapter and/or notes before exams.

B. Class Notes:

• Write information in your own words.
• Read through notes before the next class. Write down any questions you have.

C. Always have: #2 pencil, black/blue ink pen, lined paper, folder/binder. Opt: colored pencils/markers for projects.

VII. Class Rules

I have read and understood the requirements and instructions outlined for this course.

______________________________________________ Date _________
(Student signature)

______________________________________________ Date _________
(Parent signature)

______________________________________________ 
(Parent name -print)

______________________________________________
(Parent email address - optional)

Contacts: peter.evans@sduhsd.net