Texas Government Syllabus for 2015-2016
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Course

GOVT-2306-001 Texas 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 Texas Constitution, structure and powers of state and local government, federalism and inter-governmental relations, political participation, the election process, public policy and the political culture of Texas.

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Department Expectations

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Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Farmer, Brian R. Choices: Custom Resources for Political Science. Boston, MA: Pearson Learning Solutions, 2013. ISBN 1-256-62023-8  

Supplies

Scrantons for each exam and a #2 pencil

Student Performance

After Studying the Material Presented in this Course of Study, the Student will be able to:

1.  Define and describe federalism and other ways of organizing government and know the status of the American states within the federal system and the changing character and development of the Federal relationship.

2.  List and describe three branches of government in Texas.

3.  Know the Constitutional powers and limitations 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 judgements 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, interest 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 that Constitution.

10.  Explain local government structures, functions, and organization 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

Students are expected to act like adults attending a college class. This is not high school. Be at class on time and do not leave until the class is over.

Cheating in any form will not be tolerated.

Grading Criteria

There will be four chapter exams and a final exam. All test grades will be averaged together. Each test including the final exam test is worth 20% of your grade.

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement; therefore, it is the responsibility of the student to attend class. By attending every class you can earn up to 3 points on your final grade. Coming to class late or leaving early will count against you receiving this extra credit on your final grade.

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Additional Information

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