AP U.S. Government and Politics
Mr. Best
Spring 2003

Purpose

            This course will introduce students to historical, philosophical and political aspects of government in the United States. Students will explore general concepts used to interpret American politics, analyze case studies, and examine how our government institutions and political processes produce policies that impact Americans. By interpreting various sources of data and following current events, students will examine our government in action. We will also prepare for the Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics exam offered in the spring.

  Textbook

            George C. Edwards, III, et. al. Government in America: People, Politics and Policy

  Course Content - Click on the Unit for assignments

            Unit 1: Foundation of American Government

            Unit 2: Political Parties, Elections, and Voting Behavior

            Unit 3: Civil Liberties, Civil Rights and the Judicial Branch

            Unit 4: The Legislative Branch, Executive Branch, and the Bureaucracy

There will be unit tests, unit assignments, current event reports, and individual and group projects.

  Grading

Tests                                                                            60%

Unit packets, Current Event reports & Quizzes            40%

  Grading Scale

            A = 90% - 100%

            B = 80% - 89%

            C = 65% - 79%

            D = 50% - 64%

            F = 49% and below

  Attendance and Tardy Policy

Attendance is very important to the successful completion of this course and therefore your graduation. Attendance primarily affects your class participation grade, which is equivalent to about 2 tests (2 points per day). If you are tardy, absent of forget to fill out the focus question you will miss out on that day’s points. Following with the district’s attendance policy if you have more than 12 unexcused absences you could potentially fail this course despite your grade in the class.

Make-Up Procedure

  Tests

Students can make up a test only after an excused absence. The test will usually be administered upon the student’s return to school.

  Homework

No opportunity to make up homework will be possible for students with unexcused absences (no exceptions). If you are absent, it is you responsibility to check with another student or the teacher for missed assignments and the due dates. Turn in the missed assignment(s) in the next day. Late homework will be accepted from those who simply complete work late, but will receive half credit.

  Class Rules

1. Be Respectful of yourself, me and other students at all times
2. Bring books, notebook, folder, pen and pencil, and homework to class everyday. Cover all of your textbooks.
3. Be in the classroom before the tardy bell rings or potentially loose points.
4. Food and beverages are not allowed in class (except bottled water).
5. Use class and study time effectively.
6. Go to the bathroom, locker, etc., before or after class.

If you have questions or comments about the course you can e-mail me at mbest@djusd.k12.ca.us