AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

Peter Evans

[Course Outline] [Grading] [Class Rules] [Group Projects]  [Internet]
[Onlne Course Outline]

COURSE DESCRIPTION :Fall  2004

I. INTRODUCTION:

American Government is a one semester course that 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.

Text: West's American Government (ITP)
Supplementary readings derived from varied sources...

You can expect the following:

• Reading and written homework assignments: 2-3 hrs/wk.
• Research projects.
• Active participation in class discussions and in group activities.
  

II. COURSE OUTLINE: Each topic is approximately 1-2 weeks in length. Topics are not necessarily covered in the following order and there is frequent information overlap. Basic chapter assignments are identified with each link.

1.   Government & the People
2.   A Nation Emerges
3.   The Constitution
14. The Organization of Congress
15. The Powers of Congress
16. How Congress Makes Laws
17. The Presidency
18. The President at Work
20. The Federal Courts
5.   Personal Freedoms
6.   Due Process of Law

III. GRADING: 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 (in-class grade printouts occur more frequently). QuarterGrades 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).  Reminder: You must pass this course in order to graduate and in order to walk in the graduation ceremony as a Senior.

TESTS: approximately 35-40% of overall grade. You are permitted to make-up two missed chapter exams per quarter at the end of each quarter.

QUIZZES: approximately 5% of overall grade.  There are no make-ups for missed quizzes.
However, your score on the next scheduled quiz will also replace the previously missed quiz.

HOMEWORK: approximately 15% of overall grade. Late homework is not accepted. 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. 

PROJECTS & REPORTS: approximately 25-30% of overall grade. A variety of mini oral and written research projects are part of this course. Topics and deadlines TBA.

CLASS PARTICIPATION: approximately 5-10% of overall grade.   Each student will be evaluated on their degree of daily preparation and level of participation in class discussion and group activity.

IV. CLASS RULES:

• Respect others and show courtesy at all times
• Approach new ideas with an open mind.
• Truancies from class:  no make-up work permitted.
• Tardies: 4 unexcused tardies within a 2 week period will be referred to Saturday School.
  Experience shows that poor attendance patterns (excused or not) frequently result in poor grades.
• All legitimate absences due to activities for other classes (field trips, guest speakers, etc.) must be approved by me in advance or they will be counted as unexcused absences and no make-up work will be allowed.
• Food and drink (except water bottles) are prohibited in class.
• Cheating: Any work in violation the SDUHSD ACADEMIC HONESTY POLICY will result in at least a zero for the assignment in question.
  

V. 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.

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

______________________________________________ Date _________
(Student signature)

______________________________________________ Date _________
(Parent signature)

______________________________________________
(Parent email address)

Contacts: peter.evans@sduhsd.net or Social Science Web Site at www.tphs.net , departments

Group Projects 

Comparative Government  
Law Making in the Senate
Civil Rights
California Propostions
Current Events

Helpful Internet Links:

Click here for Government Sites

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