Course Syllabus
School District of Oconee County
U.S. Government
Course Number: 333000CH
(Students participating in this class will take the U.S. Citizenship test)
U.S. Government is a study of government at the federal, state, and local level, to include theories of the rise of governments; governments worldwide; the founding of America’s system; roles of political parties; voting; influences on the governing process; the legislative, executive, and judicial systems; the Constitution and Bill of Rights; discussions, analyses, and debate on current issues.Simulated Congressional sessions are an opportunity for students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of Constitutional principles. American Government Honors moves at a faster pace than American government, including history, philosophy, and public speaking. Extensive reading, writing, projects, and analysis are required. Critical thinking is stressed.
South Carolina Standards:
Foundations of Democracy
Standard 1: Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental historical and philosophical principles and ideas that led to the development of the American constitutional democracy.
Enduring Understanding: The principles of American democracy are reflected in the founding documents and actions of federal, state, and local government entities. The interpretation and application of American democratic principles continue to evolve and be debated.
Government Structure
Standard 2: Demonstrate an understanding of the structure and functions of government at all levels in the United States.
Enduring Understanding: In the American constitutional democracy, power is widely distributed and checks prevent one branch of government from becoming too powerful and seizing powers from the other branches of government. National, state, and local governments are in positions where they must all compete and cooperate in order to govern effectively.
The Political Process
Standard 3: Demonstrate an understanding of the political process in determining and shaping public policy and the political climate in the United States.
Enduring Understanding: American political beliefs are shaped by an understanding of founding principles, core values, and changing demographics that in turn shape one’s belief about government and ideological trends related to public policy. Governing is achieved through an individual's participation in government both directly and indirectly which results in multiple avenues for influence on the policy making process
Citizenship
Standard 4: Demonstrate an understanding of the rights and responsibilities associated with citizenship in the United States.
Enduring Understanding: A strong constitutional democracy requires active participation on behalf of the people living under its authority. Knowledge of how to become a citizen, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, and an understanding of how to participate in the political process helps to create civic engagement and preserve the American constitutional government.
Course Summary:
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