Advanced Placement Government and Politics

Class Expectations

This course is concerned with the nature of the American political system, its development, and how it works today.  The course will not provide easy answers to difficult societal problems.  It is hoped, however, that it will help the student to understand and evaluate conflicting arguments, to formulate and express his/her own opinions, and to carry on intelligent discussions of political topics.

The objectives of this course are:

            1 become familiar with U.S. national government and politics.

            2 develop ability to apply principles to new situations.

            3 improve memory, listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.

            4 develop an openness to new ideas.

            5 improve ability to follow directions and to organize and use time effectively.

            6 become an informed citizen.

            7 cultivate a sense of responsibility for one’ own behavior.

            8 develop respect for others.

The Government student who does not read may soon be lost.  The majority of the homework is reading.  Each text chapter should be read at least twice.  Outside readings are assigned regularly.  One who does not read is not prepared, and one who is not prepared is able to perform at only an elementary level.

Mature learning requires interaction.  The student should show that the knowledge obtained through reading can be expressed through interaction with other class members.

Major tests are generally objective in nature and primarily multiple choice.  Since the purpose of this course is to prepare the student to pass the AP Government test in May, the test questions are chosen with this in mind.

The following guidelines are used for essays:

            “A” range – well developed thesis, backed by specific, appropriate examples.

“B” range – thesis that does not go beyond what is covered in class, good evidence but tends to describe rather than analyze.

“C” range – underdeveloped or unsupported thesis, only basic facts or stereotypical generalizations used.

“D” range – poor knowledge of subject matter, factual errors, no thesis development.

Major tests and essays account for about 75% of the quarter grade. The other 25% consists of quizzes, homework, participation, written assignments and homework.