United States and Comparative Government Part 1 I AP I Full Year

Are you passionate about politics, lawmaking, and the inner workings of the United States government? Then our US Government class is the perfect opportunity for you to explore your interests and make a difference! In this dynamic and engaging class, you'll delve into the intricacies of the American political system, from the Constitution and the three branches of government to the electoral process and current political issues. You'll learn about the roles and responsibilities of elected officials, the legislative process, and the challenges facing our nation today. But this class is not just about theory. You'll also have the chance to apply your knowledge through hands-on activities, such as mock debates and research projects. You'll develop critical thinking skills, effective communication abilities, and a deeper understanding of the issues that shape our world.

This course is the first half of a rhetorical level course intended to introduce the student to the major themes and functions of the government, and particularly United States government.  This course will involve both writing and reading.  We will be reading a full-range of primary documents from each topic we study.  You will be learning how to read, think about, analyze, argue with, and present ideas about political science and to connect events to the larger trends and themes in world history.  This class is taught at a standard level, however, I am able to offer additional work as well as AP designation on your transcript if you would like your student to take this class at an AP level, as I am AP authorized--please contact me about this option.

This class is a discussion-based, interactive format. Each week you will be responsible for reading background material and assigned primary documents.  You will be expected to write a reading response for each of your readings.  These reading responses should be 1-2 pages on the background material for each topic.  In class, we will spend much time discussing our reading, putting themes in their historical context and asking questions about the author’s and our own worldviews.  I expect you to come to class prepared to participate in this discussion. You will also be assigned brief presentations.  These presentations will involve researching the biographical information for significant figures and key information for major moments we will study in class. 

What to expect from this course:
-Strengthening your skills of primary text analysis
-Improve critical thinking skills through oral and written discussion
-Develop an understanding of the major moments and themes of US history
-Explore the political decisions that shape the modern US government
-Compare political systems internationally to understand variations and the reasoning behind them