American Government

The purpose of the American Government semester course is to explore the important concepts related to the study of American government.  Students will be exposed to foundations of American government through reading, lecture, and analysis in combination with both individual and cooperative learning.  In addition to learning the introductory concepts of the Legislative, Executive, and Judicial Branches of government, students will learn about participating in government, public policies, state and local government, and political and economic systems.  The goals of this course are for students to develop critical thinking and writing skills, participate productively in class discussions and activities, understand the three branches of government, be prepared for college-level government or political science courses, and prepare and present information to a group. Students are expected to read the daily newspaper, and keep informed about business and current events.

Textbook(s): United States Government: Democracy in Action, Remy, Richard C., Ph.D., Glencoe/McGraw Hill. Additional readings will be provided throughout the year from other textbooks, literature, magazines, newspapers, and journals.

Prerequisites:  Students should have completed at least one year of American History or its equivalent.

Instructor: Laurel Colborn