U.S. Government

Fayetteville Junior High School 2008-2009

Hastings

Course Description: The Government course focuses on the United States' founding principles and beliefs. Students will study the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels.

Course Outline

I. Foundations of American Government

II. The Constitution

III. Rights and Responsibilities

IV. Political Parties / Elections & Voting

V. Legislative Branch

VI. Executive Branch

VII. Judicial System

VIII. State/Local Government

IX. U.S. Economic System

X. Public Policy (foreign/domestic)

This class will help you better understand our democratic institutions and see how the U.S. Constitution has allowed our government to operate for more than 200 years. This year we will study the basic structure of our democratic system. For a democratic system to survive, citizens must take an active role in government. After completion of this course, you will be better prepared to participate in government. Hopefully, each student will work to overcome apathy and actively participate in government at all levels. After all, the success of democracy depends on informed and knowledgeable citizens.

Quotes:

“If men were angels, no government would be necessary.”

-James Madison

“Government, even in its best state, is but a necessary evil; in its worst state, an intolerable one. “
-Thomas Paine

“Many forms of Government have been tried, and will be tried in this world of sin and woe. No one pretends that democracy is perfect or all-wise. Indeed, it has been said that democracy is the worst form of Government except all those others that have been tried from time to time. “
-Winston Churchill

Other Useful Information for the Course

I. Classroom Rules

A. Any student who is not in his/her seat when the bell rings is considered tardy.

B. Each student is expected to remain seated unless given permission by teacher.

C. Each student is to bring needed materials to class.

D. A student should raise his/her hand in order to be recognized before speaking.

E. Each student should pay attention and follow rules and directions the first time given.

F. In addition to classroom rules, all school rules will be enforced.

II. Classroom Policies

A. Homework will not be given daily; however, classwork will be completed daily and turned in to be graded. When a student is absent, it is the responsibility of the student to make up missed work within three days.

B. Each student is required to have a notebook for this class.

C. A project will be assigned each nine weeks. Projects will be assigned in ample time for the student to complete and will count as a test grade.

III. Grading Policy

A. Test grades will count 50% of final grade.

B. Homework grade, notebook grade, study guides, and quiz average will make up the other 50%.

IV. Materials

A. No. 2 lead pencils

B. Red ink pen for checking work.

C. Three-ring binder with side pockets

D. Wide ruled notebook paper

V. Extra Credit

Each student having perfect attendance in the class is given two points on his/her final grade.