United States Government Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Course

GOVT-2305-DC017 United States Government

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: 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.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Dual Credit Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

\ Farmer, Brian, Robert Bresler, Robert J. Friedrich, Joseph J. Karlesky, D. Grier Stephenson, Jr., and Charles C. Turner. American Government. Sixth Edition. Redding, CA: 2011. 

Supplies

\ Paper, pens, #2 pencils and scantrons for tests.  Access to a computer with reliable internet.

Student Performance

\ Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

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\ 1. Explain the origin and development of constitutional democracy in the United States.

\ 2. Demonstrate knowledge of the federal system.

\ 3. Describe separation of powers and checks and balances in both theory and practice.

\ 4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government.

\ 5. Evaluate the role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties in the political system.

\ 6. Analyze the election process.

\ 7. Describe the rights and responsibilities of citizens

\ 8. Analyze issues and policies in U.S. politics.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

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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

\ Students are expected to follow all Amarillo College and high school policies and procedures.

Grading Criteria

Exams.  There will be three major examinations during the semester plus a final exam on Monday, December 1. Exams will be multiple choice and cover the readings from Farmer et al., Understanding American Government. Students are not allowed to drop an exam. Each exam is 50  questions worth 2 points apiece for a total of 100. The possible number of points in the class is 400, with 360 points needed for an ‘A,’ 320 for a ‘B,’ 280 for a ‘C,’ and 240 for a ‘D.’   

Makeup Exams.  There are no makeup exams without prearrangement with the instructor.  It is imperative that students contact the instructor before exam day if they know they will be absent so that arrangements can be made or before noon on exam day if they are missing school due to illness or absent for some other reason whether it be accident, a death in the family, etc.

Academic dishonesty:

Cheating in any form will not be tolerated.  If the instructor determines that a student is not responsible for his/her work, no credit will be given for the assignment.

Attendance

\ Amarillo College Attendance Policy: Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class.

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Additional Information

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