This is a semester-long class open to juniors and seniors. This course is an introduction to U.S.
government. We will study government institutions and political processes and examine policy choices. The institutions and policies of the U.S., state, and local governments will be considered in light of historical change, constitutional interpretations, and comparative perspectives.
TEXTS, READINGS, :
McClenaghan, William A. American Government, 2013 ed., New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2013
Photocopies, handouts, credible webites, and videos will supplement text readings.
TEACHING METHODS: Teaching strategies used in this class lead to the development of cognitive strategies and capabilities necessary for college-level work and include: writing, research, active inquiry and dialogue, ability to support argumentative points, and evaluation of data and resources to determine the validity, credibility and relevance as it pertains to the topic.
ACADEMIC BEHAVIORS: A successful student at Creek will learn time management skills for
assignments/projects, work and socializing, preparing for and taking examinations, using information resources, taking Cornell [class] notes, promoting the use of study groups, and communicating with teachers and counselors. These behaviors will be reinforced through the requirements of this class.
GRADING:
Grades are calculated using a weighted system. Course work is 40% of the semester grade. Tests and quizzes are 40% of the semester grade. The final exam is worth 10% of the semester grade. The Research Paper is worth 10% of the semester grade. 10% of points per day will be deducted for work submitted late.
government. We will study government institutions and political processes and examine policy choices. The institutions and policies of the U.S., state, and local governments will be considered in light of historical change, constitutional interpretations, and comparative perspectives.
TEXTS, READINGS, :
McClenaghan, William A. American Government, 2013 ed., New Jersey: Prentice Hall, 2013
Photocopies, handouts, credible webites, and videos will supplement text readings.
TEACHING METHODS: Teaching strategies used in this class lead to the development of cognitive strategies and capabilities necessary for college-level work and include: writing, research, active inquiry and dialogue, ability to support argumentative points, and evaluation of data and resources to determine the validity, credibility and relevance as it pertains to the topic.
ACADEMIC BEHAVIORS: A successful student at Creek will learn time management skills for
assignments/projects, work and socializing, preparing for and taking examinations, using information resources, taking Cornell [class] notes, promoting the use of study groups, and communicating with teachers and counselors. These behaviors will be reinforced through the requirements of this class.
GRADING:
Grades are calculated using a weighted system. Course work is 40% of the semester grade. Tests and quizzes are 40% of the semester grade. The final exam is worth 10% of the semester grade. The Research Paper is worth 10% of the semester grade. 10% of points per day will be deducted for work submitted late.