US Government [Competency Based] (1st semester)

Course Description

\nUS Government offers students a comprehensive examination of this country’s government. Students explore the evolution of American democracy, from its birth in the eighteenth century to the expansive role of federal, state, and local governments today. The course covers topics such as changes to the Constitution, the function of the Supreme Court, the structure of Congress, and the importance of the media. The course explores the relationship between the political parties and lobbyists, and the process of monitoring and funding federal elections. Students investigate the roles of state and local governments and their impact on citizens’ daily lives. At the end of this course, students have a knowledge of and appreciation for the workings and history of the US government and understand its impact on American society. \n

Course Breakdown

\n

\n
• Roles and powers of the president
\n
• Roles and powers of the Supreme Court
\n
• Federal government and religion
\n
• Congressional committee system
\n
• Interest groups
\n
• Role of political parties
\n

\n

Course Goals

\n

\n
1. Describe the structure and function of the executive branch.
\n
2. Explain the role that lobbyists and interest groups play in the legislative process.
\n
3. Explain the role of political parties in American politics.
\n
4. Describe the structure and function of the judicial branch.
\n