High School US Government: Study & Simulation of American Politics

Does your learner start to doze off at the thought of studying US government and politics? Or are they passionate about understanding how our democracy works? Either way, this class is the answer!

Dive into the fascinating world of American government with an engaging mix of activities, discussions, and a hands-on simulation that brings politics to life. In this course, learners will explore the foundational principles of American democracy, from the Constitution and Bill of Rights to the checks and balances of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Learners won’t just study government—they’ll experience it! Step into the shoes of a member of Congress, an executive branch official, or an interest group leader during an immersive simulation where they’ll navigate real-world policymaking. They’ll also debate key issues, analyze political systems, and develop critical thinking skills that empower them to understand and participate in democracy.

Whether your learner is new to US government or eager to deepen their knowledge, this course is designed to make politics accessible, meaningful, and fun. With an emphasis on respectful discourse, collaboration, and practical application, learners will gain a deeper appreciation for how the American political system shapes our world—and their future.

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Topics Covered:
- The constitutional foundation of the U.S. government, including how the U.S. Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Federalist Papers shape the government’s structure and protect individual rights.
- The roles and responsibilities of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as well as their interdependence and checks and balances.
- The influence of political parties, interest groups, the media, and the electorate on policy making and governance.
- The policymaking process from drafting legislation to its approval or rejection.
- Comparative political systems and how they differ from the U.S. system.

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Additional Class Expectations:

REFUND POLICY: I understand the appeal of booking in advance to secure a spot in classes, but I also acknowledge that circumstances may change. If you need to withdraw your learner for any reason up to ten days before the class's start date, I will gladly issue a full refund. Please don't hesitate to contact me in such cases. For inquiries regarding sibling discounts, please reach out for further assistance.

Active Participation: In this class, active participation is key to meaningful engagement and learning. Learners are strongly encouraged to contribute to discussions, share their perspectives, and ask questions. To promote critical thinking and effective in-class interactions, the chat feature should be used sparingly. While quick questions or clarifications are welcome, longer answers or discussions are best reserved for face-to-face interactions during class time.

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Each week, learners will find all required materials posted in the classroom, with most being digital-friendly and a select few requiring printing.  For those who prefer not to print, digital documents can be accessed through Google Drive or PDFs will be available to view on your device. Although I aim to provide enough in-class time for all topics and activities, given time limits, several brief assignments will require independent completion. Understanding learners' busy lives, I provide ample time, at least one week, for the completion of each task and extended notice for projects.

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Note on Teaching Style and Learner Participation:
This class thrives on active student interaction and participation. The teaching methods, including simulations and critical thinking activities, are designed to engage and inspire. However, the success of these interactive sessions largely depends on learner involvement. Should active participation prove challenging, we may transition to a lecture format to ensure all essential material is thoroughly covered. I encourage all learners to join in, share their thoughts, and contribute to a dynamic learning environment, making the educational journey enriching for everyone.