United States Government Syllabus for 2013-2014
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Course

GOVT-2305-009 United States Government

Prerequisites

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

Course Description

Origin and development of the U.S. Constitution, structure and powers of the national government including the legislative, executive and judicial branches, federalism, political participation, the national election process, public policy, civil liberties and civil rights.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

\N

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Dual Credit Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

\ Fiorina et al. “America’s New Democracy” 4th ed. New York, NY: Pearson Longman, 2008.

\ "Magruder's American Government" Texas Ed. USA Pearson/Prentiss Hall, 2003.

Supplies

\ Pens, paper, pencils.  Other supply needs will be discussed in class.

Student Performance

\ After studying the material presented in this course of study, the student will be able to:
\
\ 1 Define and describe federalism and intergovernmental relations, the basis for federalism in the Constitution, and its changing character and development, as well as explain other ways of organizing government.
\ 2. Identify and explain the three branches of government in the U.S.
\ 3. Explain the Constitutional powers and limitations of political actors.
\ 4. Identify and define the rights of U.S. citizens.
\ 5. Explain the philosophical development-theoretical concepts of the state, government, limited government democracy, and authoritarian government and demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of each concept.
\ 6. Explain the historical development of Constitutionalism as a basis for political society and the historical development of the U. S. Constitution and the political system that has developed under that Constitution.
\ 7. Explain the concepts of limited governments, protection of the individual through the limitation of government power, and explain how American governments is linted through federalism, separation of powers, checks and balances, the Bill of Rights, and democracy.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

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Expected Student Behavior

\ Students are expected to follow all Tulia High School and Amarillo College policies and procedures.

\ Academic Dishonesty:

\ Cheating in any form will not be tolerated.  Some collaboration with other students on assignments is acceptable when instructed in the classroom; however students must do their own work. If the instructor determined that a student is not responsible for his/her work, no credit will be given for the assignment.

\ Conduct in the Classroom:

\ Students are expected to control themselves verbally and physically in such a manner as to enhance the learning environment.  Disrespect towards the instructor or fellow students will not be tolerated.  Students will be withdrawn from class by the instructor if it is deemed necessary.

Grading Criteria

\ Exams.  There will be four major examinations during the semester plus major high school curriculum tests and essays.  Exams will be multiple choice and short answer.  They will cover both the chapters and the lectures.

\ Makeup Exams.  There are no makeup exams without prearrangement with the instructor.  If a student misses an exam, then the student must arrange with the instructor to take an essay makeup exam.

\ Class participation grades.  Since some portions of the chapters will be presented and discussed in class during virtually every class period, all students are expected to contribute to classroom discussion.  Daily grades will come from this and will be counted toward the high school grade as set out in Tulia ISD policy.

\ Synopsis of Grading.

\ College:        4 Exam scores              100%

\ High School:

\ Exam and tests, and essay scores       60%

\ Daily grades                                               40%

Attendance

\ Regular attendance is expected.

Calendar

Additional Information

\ The Instructor reserves the right to change the syllabus and/or calendar if necessary.