Professor Linda Powell
--Text me at (806) 410-0025,
--Write to me via the "MESSAGES" Tool from the top menu toolbar on the Course Webpage (Please DO NOT use Outlook as this may delay a response). NOTE: I will not respond to emails sent from non-Amarillo College email address.
If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.
Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.
If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.
As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc
Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016
Students who wish to withdraw from a course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.
NOTE: Students who are attending Texas institutions of higher education, for the first time fall 2007 and later, may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.
The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students. If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .
GOVT-2306-006 Texas Government
Prerequisite: RDNG 0331-minimum grade of C or a score on a state-approved test indicating college-level reading skills
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.
Student ResourcesStudent Resources Website
Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:
Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:
Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me
You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.
(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)
Hybrid
Required Books:
Title: The State of Texas – NEW 3rd Ed. 2017
with Connect Plus Access Card
Author: Mora & Ruger
ISBN: 9781260150698 or 1260150690
Publisher: McGraw Hill
*NOTE: Please remember that each student is responsible for purchasing the CORRECT Textbook for this course. It is very easy in the hectic early days of a new term to glance at a card in the bookstore and select the wrong books. It is also possible for a student to get conflicting advice from others, including bookstore personnel who mean well, but may be misinformed about the correct books for the proper Professor. So be sure to go online, print-out-a-copy of the Syllabus and bring it with you when buying your books. If in doubt, buy what is listed on the Syllabus, then sort out any issues later. The Syllabus is the final word on which book is correct, so read it carefully and buy accordingly.
Is the ACCESS CODE Required? Answer: NO but Highly Recommended
The Access Code is part of all NEW books purchased from the AC Bookstore, and comes bundled inside the wrapper with the book -- BUT here is the deal with the Access Code and my Class specifically. The Publisher Access Code gives the student complete admittance into all the support materials the Publisher offers found on the Course Materials TAB, including all Practice Quizzes, particularly the LearnSmart (E-Book) Textbook. These materials are highly useful for studying prior to the Graded Quizzes and then reviewing the issues you might have scored incorrectly after taking either a Practice or Graded Quiz. But, there is NO "Graded" Assignment that comes from the Publisher's web site that requires a student to purchase the Access Code if you are getting your Textbook used or from some other source. Recall, that it will come already bundled and paid for if you purchase your book New at the AC Bookstore or choose the ACCESS CODE ONLY Option available online. The support material is there to make-up for the lack of an in-class lecture and the limited contact with a "real" Professor. Some students need and like the help, especially the Practice Tests and LearnSmart Textbook which show students where a particular question came from in the book as they prepare for the "Graded" quizzes -- but it is NOT a mandatory tool. If you buy from another location, or purchase a used book then the Access Code is not provided. Student can, however, opt to purchase an Access Code from the Publisher at a later date for a fee, but that is your choice.
Regular access to a computer with Internet is necessary. Students also have access to significant Virtual help from the Textbook publisher’s web site and may use an E-Book instead of the more traditional printed version.
The Exams for this Course are taken Online which means that each student will need access to a reliable computer and Internet service in order to take each of the required Quizzes — even if you are enrolled in an on-campus course due to the use of Virtual Testing. You may take your Exams from Home, on the College campus, or the Public Library or any number of locations, but be sure that it has both a reliable Internet connection, and computer. You can also download the Blackboard Mobile App as an alternative option for accessing the Course and completing your Assignments. Experience suggests that you not use a Wireless set-up unless you are absolutely certain that it will always work. Students have TWO (2) Attempts within a Testing Cycle but once a Quiz is opened and it MUST be completed within the time limit allowed. If you are “knocked out” of the quiz before hitting submit, students can immediately log back in and the test can be resumed until the time has expired. To reiterate, once you open a Quiz, you must complete it as the Blackboard Program allows for only ONE (1) Test attempt to be open for each student at a time; however, a Wired Internet Connection remains the best choice. This issue is very important since I am now granting all students TWO (2) attempts at each Graded Quiz during a Testing Cycle. Be aware of the weather for the same reason. Do not sit down to take your Exam just as a T-Storm is approaching your house since that is just asking for trouble. The same rule applies to your favorite "beverage" or any other item that might disrupt your ability to successfully complete each Quiz. Keep the telephone number of the CTL Help Desk (a Help Desk for everything) handy where you decide to take your Tests so that if you have a problem arises then you may contact them immediately. A Link to the CTL Help Desk is also provided on the left-hand menu of the Course Webpage. Please do not try and contact the Professor by telephone for any technology issue that may occur since I warn you now that my only skill with computers is punching random keys when they fail me. The College does, however, have very talented people who specialize in solving such crises, and they are the ones to contact as soon as a problem occurs. Do feel free, however, to send me an e-mail describing the event and what you are doing about it when you get service restored.
Here are additional hints to help avoid any problems with AC Connect:
WANT TO AVOID PROBLEMS WITH GRADED QUIZZES ON BLACKBOARD (AC CONNECT)?
GETTING KNOCKED OFF of GRADED QUIZZES?
FOLLOW THESE SUGGESTIONS!
Since some of you are new to the AC Connect (Blackboard) online environment, here are some helpful hints to consider before taking the Graded Quizzes. Remember, that each Quiz must be completed and submitted prior to the 2355/11:55 p.m. deadline. If you begin your Quiz at 2350/11:50 p.m. on the final due date, you will have only 5 minutes to complete the assignment before the test is automatically submitted by the Blackboard Program. Any student who is allowed extra time by the Student Services Center must allow for that additional time when planning when to start taking their Test. All Quizzes are set to close at 2355 (11:55 pm) local time and that Completion Time is the same, meaning 2355/11:55 pm local time, no matter what extra is allotted to you. For best results and to guard against any unforeseen Internet difficulties, begin your Quiz at the earliest date/time available for best results. Once you open any Graded Exam, you must complete it because the Blackboard Program allows for only ONE (1) Test attempt to be open for each student at a time. This issue is very important since I am now granting all students TWO (2) attempts at each Graded Quiz during a Testing Cycle. So be sure that you have completely finished your First effort and Submitted it, before trying to take a 2nd Graded Quiz and remember these are all timed efforts—so keep that clock in mind. Be forewarned, however, that your second Quiz attempt will not use the same questions as you saw during your first effort because the Blackboard Program randomly selects questions from a large pool each time you log-in. I cannot alter this issue, but who knows, you may get easier questions if you opt for a second attempt. Understand, you ARE NOT required to take TWO (2) Quizzes, but the option/choice is there if you feel that you could do better on a 2nd Quiz than you did on your first Test. You can take your 2nd attempt at any time during the Testing Window, it does not need to be immediately after your 1st try. I have the Bb Program set to record only your HIGHEST grade, so taking it a second time will not hurt your grade point for this Test. Pick a quiet place with adequate time and a reliable, preferably a Wired fast Internet connection for best results. So do not answer your door, or the telephone if it rings, banish your spouse, children or significant other while testing, and be aware of weather related issues that may develop, meaning do not start a Quiz during a thunderstorm or when one is anywhere near since our power grid is essentially spread across the Texas Panhandle! The Graded Quizzes have a time limit so remember to watch your time because when the time limit runs out, the Quiz will automatically close and your computer will self-submit that Test. If you are “knocked out” of the Quiz, students can immediately log back in and your Test will resume until the scheduled Quiz time window has expired. Be sure to note that the timer continues running if you leave the Test for any reason---so access it again as quickly as possible if any problem arises! Again, to reiterate, once a student accesses/begins the timed Quiz, the Bb timer will Start and continue running until time has expired, then Blackboard will automatically close and submit your Quiz as scheduled, even if you were forced out and re-entered due to a brief technical problem.
AC Connect or Blackboard is restrictive about the environment in which a student takes the Exam. This makes sense when you remember that most other Colleges and Universities that use Virtual course require that students take all Graded Tests using a Testing Center or a Proctor at a local site. To avoid any problems such a time-outs or losing access in the middle of a Quiz, note these suggestions:
NOTE the importance of a WIRED Connection cannot be Emphasized Strongly Enough: A Message from a Blackboard IT Expert -- "If a students’ Internet connection is interrupted anytime during a test, Blackboard (AC Connect) regards that break as an ending of the test. WiFi connections are the worst because they often have micro-short blips in connections (as they process the signal from the source). Usually we do not even notice it….but Blackboard does. So a student might open a test, start the questions, and notice that nothing is saving or moving along – this is because the connection has been broken. Blackboard simply continues running the timer on the Quiz, and when the time runs out it “submits” the test on the next cycle – usually 2-7 minutes after the timer ends citing 'abandonment' by the student as the explanation. In the end, a student may get to answer either none or only a few questions."
Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
1. Explain the origin and development of the Texas constitution.
2. Describe state and local political systems and their relationship with the federal government.
3. Describe separation of powers and checks and balances in both theory and practice in Texas.
4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of Texas government.
5. Evaluate the role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties in Texas.
6. Analyze the state and local election process.
7. Identify the rights and responsibilities of citizens.
8. Analyze issues, policies and political culture of Texas.
In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .
If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".
DISABILITY STATEMENT: Any student, who because of a disabling condition, may require some special arrangements in order to meet course requirements should contact disAbility Services (Student Service Center room 119, phone 371-5436) as soon as possible.
CHEATING: Occasionally a few students will attempt to cheat on one of the examinations. Students caught cheating in any way or using materials other than those allowed will have their examinations rejected and, at minimum, receive a grade of F (0 points) for that examination. Additionally such students may receive a grade of F for the course and may be suspended from the College (penalties which become a permanent part of a penalized student’s record and cannot be eliminated by the repeat-option).
STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: Student records are confidential under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974. Therefore, the student’s progress within this class cannot be discussed with parents, friends, or guardians without written permission from the student. The student (not a parent, friends, or the professor) is responsible for contacting the professor if the student is concerned about their progress in the class, absent for an extended period due to illness, surgery, or other circumstances, or any other extenuating situations which may arise during the course of the semester. The student is responsible for following and understanding their rights and responsibilities as listed in the student handbook at on the AC Webpage.
NOTE: If a student misses class, it is the student’s responsibility to get class notes from another student. DO NOT ASK THE PROFESSOR FOR THE NOTES.
STUDY GROUPS: Student-led study groups are encouraged. The professor will provide, if requested, a secure-web forum for each individual study group. But, never forget that I am also available to you and will gladly help during my Office Hours or Appointments.
CELL PHONES: Cell phone, pagers or any electronic device that might disturb the classroom must be turned off during the class period or it will be confiscated.
INSTRUCTOR’S POLICY ON ACADEMIC DISHONESTY: Occasionally a few students will attempt to cheat or plagiarize. Students caught will receive a grade of F (0 points) for that examination and/or essay. Additionally such students may receive a grade of F for the course and may be suspended from the College (penalties which become a permanent part of a penalized student's record and cannot be eliminated by the repeat-option). If you are unsure about the definition of plagiarism, see the links available to students or visit with your instructor.
Plagiarism includes, but is not limited to:
Review the Plagiarism Handout located on the "Course Info - Start HERE!" TAB located on the Course Website.
CHOOSING GOOD SCHOLARLY SOURCES FOR RESEARCH: Students often search for additional information about historical/political events to supplement their understanding of the material in preparation for essays and quizzes. To correctly interpret political issues, students must have accurate knowledge of the facts. Students can also consult secondary sources such as the work of other political scientist or scholars. Students are, however, STRONGLY cautioned to choose these extra sources, particularly internet sites, with care. Websites, such as Wikipedia or Yahoo, DO NOT necessarily contain reliable facts, documentation, or interpretations, and therefore, should not be used in a college course. Websites like Wikipedia even post disclaimers informing users that their material may or may not be valid (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Disclaimer). Students should, instead, choose sources from the AC Library refereed journals. For websites, learners should select sites where the author can be identified as a scholar, political scientist, or other knowledgeable person. Such examples would include websites ending in .edu or .org. Websites helpful to students in this course already examined by the professor are available via the "Web Resources" link through the course. See "Using Wikipedia -- "Danger Will Robinson" handout located on the "Syllabus" page or this recent CNN article, "Use with caution: The perils of Wikipedia." Encyclopedias and general "Political" websites also fall into this category because they are too superficial to use as "source material" for research necessary for use in any College Course. Using as “sources” such non-academic web sites like Wikipedia, Yahoo, Encyclopedias, Dictionaries, or even general websites (like History.com) among others with similar designs and intent will result in a reduction in points appropriate to the infraction on submitted the Assignment. Use solid academic sources, and if in doubt, ask the Professor to be certain that you avoid penalties.
BEHAVIOR POLICY: To the mature adults who are members of this class I apologize for the insult imposed upon you by this section of the syllabus. Unfortunately, past behavior by your fellow students has necessitated its inclusion. Students are expected to behave in a manner befitting adults with the proper respect displayed for their fellow students, the Professor, and the College. This is not middle school, elementary school, nor Lad ‘N’ Lassie day care center, and I have no intention of tolerating behavior which is more stereotypical of any of the aforementioned. In order to clarify my position, the following list of behavior is included as examples which may result in permanent expulsion from this class. A student will receive one verbal warning only. Verbal warnings may include dismissal from class for the remainder of the class period. A second incident results in permanent expulsion with no chance for reinstatement.
Prohibited behavior includes, but is not limited to the following:
--sleeping, head on desk
--interrupting lecture by any unsuitable means
--banging, tapping on wall, desk, or floor
--passing notes
--disrespect for fellow students
--wearing headphones - except for hearing assistance as approved
--disrespectful comments
--cheating in any form
--disruptive talking/visiting between students
--any other disruptive behavior
--doing homework related to this class or any other
--moving from desk to desk, walking around room
--throwing paper wads or any other objects
--knitting, needlepoint, other arts and crafts
The instructor reserves the right to assign seating if necessary to preserve order. Contrary to what you are probably now thinking, it is not my intention to design a class which is a prison camp for college students. I am in favor of having fun in class perhaps as much as anyone; however, it must not be at the expense of an environment conducive to learning.
Review behavior guidelines in the AC student handbook.
REQUIRED ASSIGNMENTS:
Required Exams: Students will be tested, on average, once a week (every week) in the 8-week session or once every two (2) weeks over the roughly 16-week Session . Testing will be done entirely Online, during a window of time that opens at 0800 (8am) on Friday mornings and will end at 2355 (11:55 pm) on Sunday nights (See Course Schedule below) unless otherwise noted on the Calendar. You may attempt the Exam Twice (2 times) during each testing cycle, so plan your effort accordingly. That means you must limit all distractions from friends, family, the neighbor's dog, or anything else that may get in the way of you doing your very best on these Quizzes. Each quiz has 10 questions worth 10 points each a total of 100 points with a 20-minute time limit open over the Friday to Sunday period. This 3-day window allows everyone to take each of the Tests, but although there are 7 Exams scheduled during the Term, you may drop the two (2) lowest scores from the first 6 Quizzes that are given. That means that the Last Quiz must be taken and its grade may not be excluded from your Course Average. The logic here is that if you were not required to take that last test then you would simply skip the final week(s) of the course, and the whole point is for you to learn, not just get your "ticket punched." Since you are given the chance to drop the two (2) lowest grades, then I DO NOT allow any Make-Up Assignments -- for any reason so do not ask. The second reason for not granting Make-Ups is that they tend to be more work for an already over-stressed student, and by allowing the Drop option instead, I feel that everyone benefits while still protecting your opportunity to succeed in this class. So remember, there will be 7 Quizzes in total given as listed on the Course Schedule, and you may drop the lowest TWO (2) of the first 6 that are taken, including a quiz you might miss due to illness or some other issue. But everyone must participate in the Last Quiz and that score will count. So to summarize, there are 7 scheduled Quizzes and students may drop the lowest TWO (2) of the first 6 Quizzes, BUT everyone must take the Last Quiz, Graded Quiz #7, scheduled on the Course Schedule at the end of the last week of lecture, and the score from that Graded Quiz #7 counts! The Quizzes comprise a total of 80% of your class average, while the remaining 20% will come from the following assignments.
Class Participation/Attendance: Amarillo College strongly advocates active and collaborative learning in the classroom. Therefore, regular attendance and engagement is necessary for successful completion of this course. Attendance will be taken each day the class meets. To help make each class session as lively, engaging, fun, creative and informative as possible, fellow classmates must listen quietly, considerately, and openly when colleagues and the Professor are speaking. This type of civility is necessary in creating a respectful learning environment. The classroom format may combine a variety of (but is not limited to) lecture, discussion, one-minute reflection papers, group activities, polling/games, and more. If a student chooses not to engage/participate in the day’s activity, that student(s) will receive a 0 for Class Attendance that day -- even if the student(s) physically attends class. More than your physical presence is required to learn in college courses. Students must stay for the entire class period to earn attendance credit. Leaving class early or arriving more than 15 minutes late to a class meeting will result in a 0 for the day. Students are allowed up to four (4) absences (no questions asked) before points are deducted. Therefore, there are NO “excused” absences – a missed class simply counts as one of the four (4) allowable missed classes/absences. Class participation/attendance will count as 5% of the student's overall grade.
|
Attendance/Participation |
Grade |
|
4 Absences or less |
100 |
|
5 Absences |
80 |
|
6 Absences |
70 |
|
7 Absences |
60 |
|
More than 7 |
0 (zero) |
Other Assignment:
The remaining 15% of your Course Average will come from an INDIVIDUAL Common Assessment Essay written in response to YOUR ASSIGNED Ethical Dilemma question. Complete Instructions along with the Questions and the SafeAssign upload link are available via the AC Connect Course Webpage by clicking the "Common Assessment" TAB from the left-hand menu. These Essays are required by the State Legislature in several so-called Gate-Keeper classes like Government to enhance the research and writing abilities of all students. Your response to the Ethical Dilemma needs to be taken seriously and requires a minimum of 350-500 words but no more than 2 pages. It must include the use of at least TWO (2) scholarly sources, other than your textbook. You may, of course, use your textbook, but also need to seek out and utilize at least TWO other scholarly sources such as a journal/magazine article or newspaper coverage of the event/issue in question. Students are assigned an Ethical issue from the areas of study, but remember that these are real-world events, so look to your reading for guidance in understanding what happened, and how you view that issue after studying it at the College-level. You absolutely MUST submit your Essay via the Online SafeAssign Tool ONLY no later than 2355 (11:55 pm) on SUNDAY night of the Group/Date Assigned. THE DATES are available on the Course Schedule and the Ethical Dilemma/Group ASSIGNMENTS will be made available on the Course Webpage – "Common Assessment" TAB during the FIRST WEEK of CLASS. For example, if you are Assigned to Group 1, your Essay is DUE no later than SUNDAY 4 November 2018 before 2359 or 11:59 p.m. on the Group 1 Assigned Topic. Again, see the Course Schedule and Assignments for details.
Recall that this Essay MUST be submitted via the SafeAssign link ONLY and will not be accepted in any other form as mandated by College rules---so DO NOT send it to me via any E-Mail tool, as a linked web address, etc. Citations are required for all material consulted and the scholarly sources (including your Textbook) used in your essay. All Citations, whether footnotes, endnotes, quotations, paraphrasing, and the Bibliography MUST be in the Turabian Style---which in this class means using the Notes-Bibliography format and NOT the author-date method also found in the Turabian Manual. This is the current standard for all Social Science writing and is best found using the Link I provided within the Course Webpage--under the Common Assessment TAB. If you need help with that style, simply contact the Writer's Corner in the English Department and ask for help. This is a very useful resource for all Amarillo College students seeking advice for any written assignment in a class and should be used by everyone. I have provided a Link to the Writer’s Corner on the left-hand menu on the Course Webpage.
These Ethical Dilemma assignments are based upon your assessment of a real-life ethical challenge from the period of Government you studied during the Term at the College-level. Remember, however, that while your grasp of this issue is the foundation for your submission, students must demonstrate an understanding of the context in which the event occurred and support their position with factual material (cited from sources using Footnotes and a Bibliography). Occasionally, it is helpful to use a VERY short quote only but again -- be sure to use the appropriate Footnote/Bibliography Turabian Citation Style for those parts of your Essay. As in all scholarly work, these Essays should be written using the Third Person style, meaning that a reader should never be aware of you the author, but should instead "hear" your views expressed as if you are explaining this Ethical problem to an academic audience or uninformed person. I have provided examples for you of what the Third Person style looks like, or if you find yourself unsure, then just write to me or visit the Writer's Corner. The goal is to have each student explore an issue, and examine their own heart, applying what you have learned during the Term to an actual event. Think of it as a "You are There" kind of assignment, but the "you" in this case in someone living or participating in Government in the 21st Century with the benefit of not only hindsight, but an education and hopefully an appreciation for how cultures/societies have changed in dealing with issues over time. You can, and should, express your personal response to the dilemma, but it must be done as a scholar, and not using terms like "I" or "us" or "we" and so on---which is what the First Person sounds like. There must be some professional distance between you and the issue, and that is what the Third Person scholarly method provides.
Students must access the Complete Instructions which includes the Assigned Question/Group along with the SafeAssign upload link. These are available on the AC Connect Course Webpage by clicking the "Common Assessment" TAB from the left-hand menu. Students are REQUIRED to answer the ASSIGNED TOPIC question with a response of a minimum of 350-500 words but no more than 2 pages in length. Your Common Assessment Essay must have a SEPARATE COVER PAGE that includes: 1) Essay Title 2) Group/Question; 3) Course Name and Number WITH Section (Can be found on Course Syllabus); 4) Professor’s Title and Name, i.e., Professor Linda Powell; 5) Student’s Name; 6) Due Date or Date of Submission. All of the items for the Cover Sheet should be centered with the Title in Bold. The Essay should be double-spaced and written in normal Academic Third Person format as noted above. Students should provide the correct citations in footnote form, and the appropriate Bibliography at the end using the Notes-Bibliography Turabian Style.
Additionally, all Writing Assignment will be submitted and checked by SafeAssign for plagiarism. This course requires a SafeAssign score of 20% or less for any Writing Assignment. A rating of 40% or greater means blatant plagiarism since students relied upon someone else for almost one-half of their work. The goal of this Assignment is to encourage critical thinking, communication, plus personal and social responsibility when addressing an political issue. BE FOREWARNED ---The current version of SafeAssign will only accept .doc, .docx, .odt, .txt, .pdf, .rtf files at sizes of 10 MB or less. NO Google (Google docs) or Apple (Pages) documents are accepted by the Blackboard Tool. The SafeAssign Link allows only ONE upload attempt so your Essay must be ONE complete document (including the Cover Sheet, Essay & Bibliography all together for a total of about 4 pages) and please ensure you are uploading the correct version (not your Draft) using the SafeAssign Link! REMEMBER, once you hit that "submit" button for the final time to upload and send your Essay, there is no going back -- so please, please double-check yourself and be certain you have selected the correct file! Students needing assistance saving or uploading their Essay on the SafeAssign Link, should visit the Help Desk PRIOR to making their one attempt and a Link is provided on the left-hand menu on the Course Webpage.
(Total 100 points or 15% of Final Course Grade.
NOTE: Students are responsible for ensuring that their Essay uploads correctly (Cover Sheet, Essay, & Bibliography as ONE complete document) without a virus, in an accepted format that SafeAssign can open in Bb to receive a grade. Any Essay submission which cannot be scanned by SafeAssign or opened by SafeAssign and Bb will NOT be accepted for a grade.
|
Penalties Applied to Writing Assignments |
|
|
Essay Not Submitted on SafeAssign Link |
A 2-letter Grade Deduction |
|
Late |
A letter Grade Deduction |
|
Late |
A 2-letter Grade Deduction |
|
Late & Not Submitted on SafeAssign Link |
Both Penalties Apply |
|
Late |
Will not be Accepted |
|
SafeAssign Plagiarism Score of 21-40% |
A 2-letter Grade Deduction |
|
SafeAssign Plagiarism Score of 41% or more. |
Will not be Accepted |
| Did not use the Required TWO outside Scholarly Sources in the Essay | A letter Grade Deduction (Usually 10 Points) |
| Did not use Turabian Style Citations or Cite Turabian Correctly |
A letter Grade Deduction |
| Assigned Topic Not Submitted (Student wrote on another Group/Topic or a Topic of their own) |
Will not be Accepted ZERO |
SUMMARY OF ASSIGNMENTS
To summarize, each student will take 7 Quizzes during the Term and may drop Two (2) of those Tests (from the first six) so that 5 Quizzes worth 16% each will count for 80% of the class average. The Last Quiz is Required for Every Student and May Not be Dropped under any circumstances, so plan accordingly. It is risky to either ignore one of the earlier Quizzes, or to assume that you will do well on the Last One only to find that you desperately need the points from that Last Quiz and find that you "bombed it" and are stuck with a poor grade instead of a higher one from earlier in the Term that must be "tossed out" because only 5 scores will count, and one of those is that Last Quiz—Graded Quiz #7. Please be forewarned and be prepared as the Session closes to do your best on that Last Quiz. Required Class Participation/Attendance allows students four (4) absences before any points are lost and is worth five (5) percent of the Final Course Average. Finally, each student will write that brief Common Assessment Essay covering an Ethical Dilemma assigned from the List, and the Response must be a minimum of 350-500 words submitted on the SafeAssign Link for the last 15% of your Course Average.
COMPOSITION OF FINAL GRADE: All Quizzes are worth 16% each for a total of 80% of your course grade. There are 7 Quizzes, but only 5, including the Last One will be used to determine all averages. Students may drop TWO (2) of the first 6 Quizzes, BUT everyone must take the Last Quiz and the score from Graded Quiz #7 counts! There is NO extra credit offered--so Please Do Not Ask. This Syllabus is much like a Contract between the student and professor and alterations are not allowed. Experience has demonstrated that Make-Up work is often just more to do for an already swamped student, so I have chosen to use the Drop score option to relieve the pressure and prevent students from trying to do extra work while still keeping up with up-coming work that is still due on time. Remember, each student is being allowed to Drop Two (2) of their scores to assist those who must miss a Quiz or have outside obligations. So there is no Extra Credit allowed. Your Class/Participation Score is worth 5% of the Final Course Average. The remaining 15% of your course grade will come from the Common Assessment Essay, sometime in the Term and will not be a major strain on you.
To view your Grades, click on the "Check Your Grade HERE" TAB within the AC Connect Course Webpage. Manually calculate your Grade or Current Average using the Course Syllabus and/or see the "Question on Drops/Avg?” TAB for assistance. Question about how or when Blackboard drops the Quiz scores and more? Click on the ""Question on Drops/Avg?” TAB from within the Course Webpage for assistance.
Graded Quizzes (5 at 16% each) 80%
Class Participation/Attendance 5%
Common Assessment Essay 15%
GRADE SCALE:
A 90 and above
B 80-89
C 70-79
D 60-69
F Failing (below 60)
MAKE-UP POLICY: There are NO make-up Quizzes or Assignments under any circumstances. A missed Quiz will simply become a dropped score-- no exceptions. There is NO extra credit offered. Remember, everyone must drop Two (2) of the first 6 Quizzes but ALL STUDENTS MUST TAKE THE LAST Quiz and the score will count. The other Assignment must be submitted by the date listed, with no extensions or exemptions. Students are allowed up to four (4) absences for class participation/attendance (no questions asked) before points are deducted. Therefore, there are NO “excused” absences – a missed class simply counts as one of the four (4) allowable missed classes/absences.
Students MUST submit all Assignments and Quizzes electronically per the appropriate Instructions on the Course Website and no Assignments will be accepted in any other form as mandated by College and Course Syllabus rules.
NOTICE: BE WARNED -- This is fast-paced 8-week Hybrid course. This is a hybrid course which meets TWICE a week for lecture and student attendance is REQUIRED and ESSENTIAL. This is NOT an online course.
Class Participation/Attendance: Amarillo College strongly advocates active and collaborative learning in the classroom. Therefore, regular attendance and engagement is necessary for successful completion of this course. Attendance will be taken each day the class meets. To help make each class session as lively, engaging, fun, creative and informative as possible, fellow classmates must listen quietly, considerately, and openly when colleagues and the Professor are speaking. This type of civility is necessary in creating a respectful learning environment. The classroom format may combine a variety of (but is not limited to) lecture, discussion, one-minute reflection papers, group activities, polling/games, and more. If a student chooses not to engage/participate in the day’s activity, that student(s) will receive a 0 for Class Attendance that day -- even if the student(s) physically attends class. More than your physical presence is required to learn in college courses. Students must stay for the entire class period to earn attendance credit. Leaving class early or arriving more than 15 minutes late to a class meeting will result in a 0 for the day. Students are allowed up to four (4) absences (no questions asked) before points are deducted. Therefore, there are NO “excused” absences – a missed class simply counts as one of the four (4) allowable missed classes/absences. Class participation/attendance will count as 5% of the student's overall grade.
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Attendance/Participation |
Grade |
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4 Absences or less |
100 |
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5 Absences |
80 |
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6 Absences |
70 |
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7 Absences |
60 |
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More than 7 |
0 (zero) |
Attendance is not only necessary for satisfactory achievement in the Course, but to meet the attendance criteria established for those accepting Financial Aid. Be certain that you know---and follow the rules for such attendance as stated in your Financial Aid package. See AC Student Handbook for guidelines.
QUIZ SCHEDULE: Quizzes will, on average, be administered as listed on the Course Schedule (See below). This means that a great deal of material will be covered in lecture/discussion in the period between the Quizzes. Therefore, it is imperative that students be in attendance each day, since most of the content that will be tested will come from the Professor's lecture/Discussion with the class. I cannot be emphasize strongly enough just how important being part of that interaction between the class and the Professor is when learning Government. This is not a subject that is bound by formulas or learned by memorizing the names of bones or atomic tables. The foundation of Government is the story of the foundation of the Nation and its political process, and the only proven way to learn that story well is to participate in a discussion of what happened and why. So please make every effort to attend all classes, and seriously consider forming Study Groups with your classmates to spread the workload out among several people and to learn from their interpretations of the events we are all studying. Also, ask the Professor to cover anything you do not understand. I hold an Advanced Degree in this field of study, spending years of study and thousands of dollars to be able to teach you in the best way possible. So please take advantage of that while I am learning from you as well.
Outline of Topics Covered:
Week 1 -- Introduction to Texas Govt & Politics; Texas Constitution & Federalism
Week 2 -- Voting and Elections
Week 3 -- Political Parties & Interest Groups
Week 4 -- Texas Legislature
Week 5 – The Governor & Local Government
Week 6 – Court System & Criminal Justice in Texas
Week 7-- Public Policy & Financing State Government
Week 8 -- Finals
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GOVT 2306, Texas Govt. (8 Wk) -- Course Schedule -- FALL 2 2018 |
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AC Connect for Course Webpage: Students can access the associated Course Webpage on the Internet through the AC Connect Server at https://acconnect.actx.edu or through the AC Homepage http://www.actx.edu/. Students will be able to access and complete the Graded Quizzes on the calendar dates listed (see schedule above) on the Course Webpage, view their grades, review the Course Syllabus, and more. All electronic correspondence between student and Professor must be conducted through the AC Connect -- Course Home Page – "Call Prof" TAB.
Withdrawing From A Course: NOTE: Amarillo College has introduced NEW Withdrawal procedures you will find listed above. It is the responsibility of the student to officially Drop or Withdraw from a course prior to the Date set by the College and listed on both the College Master Calendar and under the Course Schedule for this class. Students are also now REQUIRED to contact their Professor and discuss the choices available to them. If completion of the Course is not an option, students MUST obtain all appropriate Paperwork signed by each Professor to initiate the Drop process. Failure by the student to Withdraw may result in a grade of “F” for the course. A grade of “W” will be assigned for student-initiated Withdrawals that are correctly submitted on or before the posted Drop Date.
****NOTE NEW Administrative Drop Policy****
PLEASE PAY SPECIAL ATTENTION TO THIS PART!!! Students who do not attend and participate in the class on or prior to the Census Date will be administratively dropped without any recourse by either the student or Professor. Effective Fall, 2016, students will be automatically dropped by Amarillo College after the Census Date and will NOT be allowed to re-enroll under any circumstances. Please understand that this includes accidents, computer failures, family emergencies or any other circumstance. Any failure to participate prior to the Census Date will lead to automatic removal of the student from the class under an administrative drop---period. This Census Date is vital to you so be sure that you have not only logged-in but have actively participated in some assignment for credit, otherwise you WILL BE DROPPED and the Professor has no way to prevent or reverse the action. This is NEW and is being done for the 1st time Fall 2016 Term, so please be sure you are aware of and understand it.
For FALL 2 2018 Term, the Census Date is 10/29/18. Attendance in Lecture or Hybrid classes REQUIRES physical attendance in Class or completion of a Graded Assignment such as the First Graded Quiz PRIOR to 10/29/18. REMEMBER---Simply logging into Blackboard, AC Connect, the Course Webpage or any other contact such as an E-Mail to your Professor is NOT accepted by either the AC administration nor the State of Texas as “attendance,” and will not count as “participation.” You Have Been Warned!!
COPYRIGHT OF COURSE: The course presentations/materials shall not be reproduced, distributed, re-used, or revised without prior knowledge and consent of the professor. The content of this class is copyrighted and protected under laws similar to those governing more traditional materials such as books or articles. Therefore, audio recorders and laptop computers must have PRIOR approval of the instructor and cannot be disseminated beyond personal use and no visual reproductions or photographs are allowed under any circumstances.
HOLIDAYS: NO class will be held on the following dates:
Thursday, November 22, 2018 - Thanksgiving Day Holiday
Go to the Course Webpage on AC Connect and select the "Course Info - Start HERE!" TAB:
--Print out and keep a copy of the Course Syllabus for the semester handy,
--Print out the Course Schedule on the "Course Schedule" TAB and post somewhere prominent.
--Review and be familiar with ALL Course Policies located including the SafeAssign, Wikipedia and Plagiarism Handouts.
**Changes or adjustments in course material, or other parts of this syllabus may be made during the semester if circumstances warrant.
10/11/18 1:49 PM
10/11/18 5:49 PM