Participation in Government (Semester 1)
Course Description:
The Participation in Government course intends to empower students with the various skills and knowledge needed to actively participate in the American democratic process by providing an understanding of government structures and civic responsibilities. Students will examine the history of the American government, its evolution, and the contemporary issues faced within our current period.
Essential Questions:
1. How can informed and active citizen participation impact our democracy?
2. What are government roles, responsibilities, and limitations at various levels?
3. How can students translate civic knowledge into effective civic action?
Key Topics:
1. Civic Duties: voting, jury duty, taxes, participating in govt., etc.
2. Governments: democracy, oligarchy, monarchy, totalitarian, etc.
3. The U.S. Constitution: Origins, principles, and amendments.
4. Branches of Government: Role and functions of the three branches.
5. State and Local Government: Understanding non-federal governments
6. Civic Engagement: Voting, activism, and the power of the individual citizen.
7. Rights and Responsibilities: Civil rights, civil liberties, and obligations as citizens.
8. Contemporary Issues: Current events, policies, and progressive movements.
Learning Outcomes and Objectives:
The Participation in Government course intends to prepare students to be active contributors within a democratic society. Promoting skills so students can stay informed, engaged, and responsible citizens are key aspects of the Participation in Government course.
1. Students will understand the structures and functions of the American government at the federal, state, and local levels.
2. Students will develop critical thinking skills through analyzing policies, decisions, and current events.
3. Students will engage individually and within groups in thoughtful debates about current issues.
4. Students will understand the roles of the American citizen - this course seeks for students to exercise their rights and responsibilities.
Areas for Social-Emotional Learning & Executive Functioning Growth:
1. Empathy: Students will develop empathy and perspective-taking by learning about various cultures, points of view, and diverse societies.
2. Effective Communication and teamwork: Learned through collaboration and class discussions.
3. Time and Self-Management: The development of EF skills through independent research, assignments, and projects.
4. Decision-Making: Examining historical strategies will foster effective decision-making skills.
