Government

OVERVIEW:

This course is a study of the history and structure of the United States Government. The main issues that we will be discussing this year are as follows:

1. Foundations of Government
2. The U.S. Constitution
3. The Legislative Branch
4. State and Local Government
5. The Executive Branch and Elections
6. The Judicial Branch

***This class will be taught through the use of discussions/debates, lectures, simulations, videos, guest speakers, and presentations.

Kazee’s Expectations

• Be prepared for class—This includes being on time to class, bringing your materials (binder, paper, a writing utensil) and any due assignments, and an attitude that suggests you are ready to learn.
• Mutual Respect---We will be covering a lot of issues where people have differing opinions, (which makes for an interesting class), and therefore it is necessary that we are kind, courteous and respectful towards one another. Disagreements make for a lively discussion, but personal attacks will not be tolerated.
• Absences—If you miss class, it is your responsibility to talk to another student or me and find out what you missed. (Use my email address or phone number). Exchange numbers with two people in class.
• Troubles—If you are having difficulty with certain concepts or assignments, I expect you to come talk to me so that I can help you do better.
• Get Informed!---What you read in the newspaper today will be in the history books in a few years. By getting informed on current events, you’ll have a much better understanding of the relevance of the issues that we discuss in class.
• Have fun!

GRADING

Assessments will include periodic tests and quizzes, homework assignments, writing assignments, class participation, community participation, and in-class assignments.

Homework and Writing Assignments

• These assignments will include questions from the textbook, journal entries, and argumentative and research-based writing assignments.

Community Service

• A significant expectation of each student is to contribute 8 hours to the community over the course of the semester.

Classroom Participation

• This will be worth 10% of your overall grade and will include being prepared for class and offering “quality” participation during discussions and lectures.

Late Work Policy

• Any work turned in after its assigned deadline may only be submitted for a maximum 50% credit on the next day. Work turned in any later will not be accepted. If a “reasonable” problem arises, please be responsible and contact me ASAP. In extreme cases, I can grant an extension.

Extra Credit

• Opportunities periodically exist for extra-credit. However, most of you will want it in the two weeks proceeding report cards. I view extra-credit like car insurance: you pay for it all the time, even though you may never need it. What does this mean? Even if you feel you are doing well in the class, when an extra-credit opportunity arises---TAKE IT!!!

Grading Scale for Saline High School

Semester Grade Breakdown

• 1st Quarter: 42.5% of final grade
• 2nd Quarter: 42/5% of final grade
• Final Exam: 15% of final grade