United States Government Syllabus for 2026-2027
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Instructor Information

Course Information

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Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

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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 Enrollment Center, Suite 700. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
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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

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

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.

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Statement on State-Authorized Courses at Amarillo College

For-credit academic and workforce education courses offered at Amarillo College are limited to the course options available in the statewide inventory for two-year public institutions. Courses in the state-authorized lower-division Academic Course Guide Manual and Workforce Education Course Manual have specific descriptions that prescribe course content and may include specific student learning outcomes. The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) maintains and regularly updates these manuals. Amarillo College faculty and leaders ensure that these courses are aligned with THECB guidelines and evaluated based on student performance outcomes. Students enrolled in these courses are expected to engage with and learn course content. According to the AC Board of Regents Policy Manual, "faculty members are entitled to academic freedom in the conduct of research and teaching and are tasked with the associated responsibilities" (DGC). Students are entitled to academic freedom in the classroom, as well, and faculty "must not attempt to force on students a personal viewpoint and must at all times allow diversity of opinion" (Amarillo College Academic Affairs Manual).

Course

GOVT-2305-016 United States Government

Prerequisites

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

Occupational License Disclaimer

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

Hours

(3 sem hrs 3 lec )

Class Type

Dual Credit Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Click Here for the Course Textbook

Supplies

For this dual credit course, you will need internet access both on and off campus to use resources on Blackboard and the free online textbook. If you need internet access or would like to check out a device, please contact me to learn about opportunities that may be available through our college.

Student Performance

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 the structures and functions of political participation including parties, interest groups, and elections.
8. 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.
9. Explain local government structures, functions, and organization in Texas.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

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".

Expected Student Behavior

1. Engagement and Participation

   • Log in regularly to check announcements, deadlines, and course updates.

   • Actively participate in online discussions by posting thoughtful responses and replying respectfully to classmates.

2. Quizzes and Assignments

   • Complete all quizzes and assignments by the posted deadlines.

   • Quizzes are individual assessments and should reflect your own work.

3. Communication and Respect

   • Maintain a professional and respectful tone in all communication, both with the instructor and classmates.

   • Disagreeing with ideas is acceptable, but personal attacks, offensive language, or disrespect will not be tolerated.

4. Collaboration and Academic Integrity

   • Contribute meaningfully to group discussions and respect diverse perspectives.

   • Submit only your own work; plagiarism, cheating, or sharing quiz answers is strictly prohibited.

5. Discussion Forum Etiquette

   • Stay on topic when posting in forums.

   • Support your ideas with course materials, evidence, or examples when appropriate.

   • Respond to at least the minimum required number of peers, using thoughtful and constructive feedback.

6. Timeliness and Responsibility

   • Keep track of due dates using the course schedule and Blackboard.

   • Take responsibility for your own learning by asking questions early if you need clarification.

7. Technology and Preparedness

   • Ensure you have reliable internet access and test your technology before quizzes or discussions.

   • Familiarize yourself with Blackboard tools (quizzes, forums, assignments, and messaging).

8. Professionalism and Courtesy

   • Use complete sentences, correct spelling, and grammar in your posts and assignments.

   • Respect the confidentiality and privacy of your classmates in discussions.

Grading Criteria

Grading Criteria 

10% - Online Discussions

15% - Quizzes

15% - Assignments

20% - Common Assessment

40% - Exams

Total - 100% 

Letter Grades: 

89+ = A 

79+ = B 

69+ = C 

59+ = D 

58 and below = F 

(Important Note: Any average .5 or above will be rounded up.) 

Exam Information:
There will be four unit exams throughout this 16-week course, held online through Blackboard as specified in the course schedule. The best way to prepare for exams is to complete the assigned readings, discussions, and quizzes. Exams will include material from the unit modules, as well as supplemental information provided in Blackboard and the textbook.

Make-Up Policy:
If a student misses an exam, they must notify the instructor as soon as possible. Any student who misses an exam without a documented, excused reason will receive a grade reduction on that exam.

Late Work:
Late work may be accepted at the instructor’s discretion but is expected to be submitted by the deadlines provided in Blackboard and the course schedule. Late submissions will incur a deduction of 10% of the total possible points for each day late, up to a maximum deduction of 50% after five days. Exceptions may be considered for documented medical issues, family emergencies, or other significant and justifiable reasons. Students must contact the instructor as soon as possible to discuss their situation and provide appropriate documentation.

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Attendance

Attendance is not a factor in an online course; however, your participation in discussions, quizzes, written prompts, and other assignments is expected in order to maintain an active presence in the course.

Calendar

Additional Information

No additional information available