In this inquiry and project-based course
based on common core standards students apply knowledge gained in previous
years of study to pursue a deeper understanding of the institutions of American
government. In addition, they draw on their studies of American history and of
other societies to compare different systems of government in the world today.
This course should be viewed as the culmination of the civic literacy strand
that prepares students to vote, to reflect on the responsibilities of
citizenship, and to participate in community activities. California State Standards addressed are 12.1 to 12.10.
In addition, while not the focus of this class, we may view particular district-approved films which help emphasize, in a unique way, the state standards addressed in the course textbook, Magruder's American Government, by McClenaghan, William A. Prentice Hall, Needham, MA, 2009. (ISBN 0-13-433207-5) As well, any school-approved MLA stylebook.
Note: The 2016 Presidential Election is approaching. To the left are some images of the supposed front-runner candidates for 2016.
However, this November will be the off-year or Congressional elections for House and Senate seats as well as important state elections.