US Government: Functions of Political Parties

This government course is taught from a politically neutral point of view. The lessons are quick and engaging (4 weeks). Students will not sit through the long, boring, endless lectures of government classes from a bygone era. Instead, lessons will be interactive, informative, and lively. Each week classes will have a clear outline and easy to follow objectives. The curriculum is aligned with current United States Government standards and will be sure to help your student maximize their potential in a online setting. 

Students will learn all the major functions political parties serve in our government. The course will begin with the American political spectrum, and end with the role political campaigns play in electing our leaders. The course will be divided into 4 parts of study. Each unit will be made available online to students on the class page. Students will find links to lectures, power-points, notes, assignments, reading material, and primary sources. I will also use google forms, docs, slides, discussion, and short videos to show examples of the topics. We will use fun games, quizzes, and interactive activities to help learn the topics. No textbook will be required and all reading material will be provided to students through the Outschool class page. Assessments will be assigned throughout the course and a progress report will be made available each week. Feedback will be provided on assignments and students will have opportunities to ask for help. Any student needing help or having a question may send a message through Outschool and it will be answered in a timely manner. Optional 'Zoom Office Hours may be established if any student feels they need additional help. Students will gain access to helpful websites, books, and other resources they can use to learn US government. This course is useful for homeschooled students, part-time hybrid students, or even students wanting learning support to compliment their own government class at school. 

Week 1:
The Political Spectrum
Students will be introduced to the two main political parties in the United States, and some of the larger third parties. Students will also learn how personal values and beliefs can influence which political party people select, and how people vote. 

Week 2: 
Principles of Modern Ideologies 
Students will learn how liberal and conservative points of view differ, and how background and experience of each person shapes their ideology. Students will also learn how they can privately identify where they fall on the political spectrum based on their own personal feelings, beliefs, and attitudes. 

Week 3: 
The Role of Political Parties 
Students will learn how political parties impact the political process in America. Students will also learn the responsibilities of the media and interest groups in a democracy. 

Week 4:
Political Campaigns
Students will learn how political parties and campaign finance laws impact elections. Students will learn why is money raised by political parties is so vital to running a successful campaign. Students will also learn how and why campaign finance is regulated.