Course Title: Understanding U.S. Government
Introduction
Welcome to Understanding U.S. Government! This course aims to equip Grade 11 students with a comprehensive understanding of the U.S. government structure, its functions, and the role it plays in shaping the lives of citizens. Through engaging lessons, discussions, and critical analysis, students will explore the fundamental principles, institutions, and processes that underpin U.S. democracy.
Course Goals
- To provide students with a deeper understanding of the U.S. government’s structure and functions.
- To encourage critical thinking about the role and impact of government in society.
- To foster civic engagement and an appreciation for democratic principles.
Course Aims
- To analyze the Constitution and its amendments.
- To explore the roles of the three branches of government.
- To understand the electoral process and political parties.
- To investigate civil rights and liberties.
- To examine current events and their relationship to the governmental framework.
Course Outline
Module 1: Foundations of U.S. Government
- Lesson 1: Introduction to Government and Politics
- Lesson 2: The Historical Context of U.S. Government
- Lesson 3: The Constitution: Structure and Principles
- Lesson 4: The Amendments: Bill of Rights and Beyond
Module 2: The Legislative Branch
- Lesson 5: Structure of Congress: The House and Senate
- Lesson 6: The Legislative Process: How a Bill Becomes Law
- Lesson 7: The Role of Committees in Congress
- Lesson 8: Congressional Powers and Limitations
Module 3: The Executive Branch
- Lesson 9: The Presidency: Powers and Responsibilities
- Lesson 10: The Executive Office of the President
- Lesson 11: The Role of the Cabinet and Federal Agencies
- Lesson 12: Presidential Elections and Campaigns
Module 4: The Judicial Branch
- Lesson 13: The Structure of the Federal Court System
- Lesson 14: The Supreme Court and Judicial Review
- Lesson 15: Landmark Supreme Court Cases
- Lesson 16: The Role of Courts in Democracy
Module 5: Federalism and the States
- Lesson 17: Understanding Federalism: Division of Powers
- Lesson 18: States' Rights vs. Federal Authority
- Lesson 19: The Role of State Governments
- Lesson 20: Local Governments: Counties and Municipalities
Module 6: Political Ideologies and Political Parties
- Lesson 21: Political Ideologies: Liberalism, Conservatism, and Moderation
- Lesson 22: The American Political Party System
- Lesson 23: The Role of Third Parties in U.S. Politics
- Lesson 24: Political Socialization: The Influences on Voter Behavior
Module 7: Elections and Voting
- Lesson 25: The Electoral Process: Primaries and General Elections
- Lesson 26: Voting Rights and Legislation
- Lesson 27: Analysis of Voter Turnout Trends
- Lesson 28: The Impact of Media and Technology on Elections
Module 8: Civil Rights and Liberties
- Lesson 29: The Importance of Civil Liberties and Civil Rights
- Lesson 30: Current Issues in Civil Rights in the U.S.
Assessment and Evaluation
Assessment will be based on quizzes, participation in discussions, written assignments, and a final project that encourages students to apply their knowledge to a contemporary issue in U.S. government.
References
- The U.S. Constitution - National Archives. Retrieved from National Archives
- Civics Handbook - Center for Civic Education. Retrieved from Civic Education
- The Federalist Papers - Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, John Jay.
- American Government: Institutions and Policies - James Q. Wilson, John J. DiIulio, Jr.
- The U.S. Congress: A Very Short Introduction - Donald A. Ritchie.
- The Supreme Court: The Personalities and Rivalries That Defined America - Jeffrey Rosen.
- Elections: A Very Short Introduction - Andrew Reilly.
- Civil Liberties and Civil Rights in the United States - Steven F. Huefner.
- Political Parties and Elections in the United States - Peter L. Francia, et al.
By the end of this course, students will be well-prepared to engage thoughtfully in discussions about U.S. government and participate actively in democratic processes.