Government of Texas Syllabus for 2011-2012
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Course

GOVT-2306-004 Government of Texas

Prerequisites

RDNG 0331-minimum grade of C or a score on a state-approved test indicating college-level reading skills

Course Description

A study of the background, organization and functions of the State of Texas. A survey of the politics of government.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

\ Gibson:  Government and Politics in the Lone Star state:  Theory and Practice, 2nd Custom Edition for Amarillo College, 7th edition, Pearson (Prentice Hall) Publishers

Supplies

\ Paper, pens, erasers, #2 pencils and scantrons.  Other supplies will be discussed in class.

Student Performance

1. Define and describe federalism and other ways of organizing government and know the status of the American states within the federal systems and the changing character and development of the Federal relationship.
2. List and describe the three branches of government in Texas.
3. Know the Constitutional powers and limitation of political actors in Texas.
4. Identify and define the rights of Texas Citizens.
5. Evaluate the public policies of the government of Texas in comparison to ideals.
6. Explain the protection of the individual through the limitations on government power through federalism, separation of powers, checks and balances, the Bill of Rights and democracy.
7. Explain state government policy making and execution as well as critique and analysis of past and present policies. The student will be able to evaluate and make independent judgments on current and past political problems faced by the State of Texas and conduct systematic inquiry through objective examination of the issues.
8. Explain the structures and functions of political participation including parties, interests groups and elections.
9. Explain the historical development of constitutionalism as a basis for political society and the historical development of the Texas Constitution and the Political system that has developed under the Constitution.
10. Explain local government structures, functions and organizations in Texas.

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If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

\ Attend all classes, bring your text book, take notes and review for and take all exams.  Students are required to be civil and respectful at all times.  Disruptive behavior and profane and abusive language is not allowed.  These acts could result in a student being dropped and having to repeat this course.  Students are expected to follow all Amarillo College policies and procedures.

Grading Criteria

\ There will be 4 exams and they are multiple choice. Each exam is worth 22.5% of the overall grade for the course for total of 90%.  Attendance is 10% of the overall grade. 

\ 90 - 100 = A

\ 80 - 89 = B

\ 70 - 79 = C

\ 60 - 69 = D

\ Below 60 = F

\ Makeup exams are to be taken at the beginning of the next class period. Contact the instructor at the beginning of the class. Students have the responsibility to request a makeup exam.

Attendance

\ Perfect attendance will have 5 points added to the final grade, after the grades are averaged so it is actually worth 5 times 4 exams or 20 additional points on one exam. Once absence will have 4 points added to the final grade, or 16 points on one exam. Two absences will have 3 points added to the final grade or 12 points on one exam. The only excused absences for applicable attendance points is when Amarillo College is dismissed for some reason such as weather and activities sponsored by Amarillo College with a letter from the sponsor.

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