U.S. Government and Citizenship Grade 12 Required for Graduation

Course Description:

This is a project and discussion based course aimed at increasing students' understanding of the structure of the United States government and the role of citizens and US residents. The goal of the course is to foster informed, responsible participation in public life. Upon completion of this course the student will understand the major ideas, protections, rights, structures, and economic systems that affect the life of a citizen in the United States. Students can expect to participate in government through a variety of projects and assignments. During this class we will examine many issues, events, ideas, and people within the context of history and current events. As a class we will attempt to discuss and decipher complicated, confusing, and controversial political issues and topics in an open-minded and civil manner. You must also pass the Civics Naturalization Test that is required of persons seeking US citizenship. This is a Utah State requirement to receive a high school diploma.

Class Instructions:

Class information, weekly schedules, assignment descriptions, and various other items will be posted on Canvas. You will receive information on how to access and navigate the site during the first week of school. (NB: Most of you have much more experience with Canvas then I do, so please be patient) It is your responsibility to check daily to keep up with your work, especially if you are missing classes. I make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. Be sure to note changes in the schedule, due dates, and assessment dates.

Grading: Your grade will be based on the following criteria. You will be able to check your grades and any missing assignments on Aspire SIS.

Assignments 30%

This will include reading and writing assignments, academic journal entries, and group activities. Only assignments turned in on time will always be awarded full credit.

Late assignments may loose credit depending on individual circumstances.

Participation/Engagement 20%

Participation and engagement in class discussion and activities are critical developing essentials of deliberation and collaboration through civil dialogue regarding historical and current issues. This means actively listening and contributing your thoughts, ideas, and questions during class. It also included coming to class on time, prepared, and meeting class expectations.

Assessments 50%

These include the various unit projects, current events, and weekly citizenship quizzes.

Class Expectations

While in class you are expected to follow these basic rules:

Be in your seat ready to work when class begins
Treat classmates, your teacher, and the classroom with respect.
Follow instruction/directions when they are given.
Participate responsibly and civilly in classroom activities and discussions.
Use electronic devices for educational purposes only unless you have been given direct permission otherwise.

Academic Integrity

Please understand what is meant by Academic integrity: Do your own work!

There will be times when you will be working in pairs or groups and will be submitting collaborative work. Class assignments often involve questions from lectures, texts, videos, group discussions, or from other study material. You should show that you understand your answers by completely rephrasing ideas in your own words. Even if the answers are a result of group discussion, you need to put your own spin on the material to make it your own. Written work should be in your own words. Answers copied from text, another source, or from another student are not acceptable. Violations will result in severe consequences. A first offense may result in loss of credit for the assignment. A second offense may result in loss of credit for the course. (See the WSS Plagiarism Policy in your handbook).

Required Materials

Writing materials
Paper
Texts and reading materials that we are using at the time
A charged computer in class and printing capabilities (at home)

Course Content

This course will consist of 6 modules

1. Introduction to Government

2. The Constitution

3. Civil Rights and Liberties

4. Government Institutions

5. Civics and Participation

6. Public Policy

There will be 3 projects during the course emphasizing each of the following:

1. The Bill of Rights

2. The Supreme Court

3. Political Parties

In addition, each week there will be a short 20 question quiz covering the 100 questions on the National Citizenship exam and current event presentations. More information on these assignments will be forthcoming.

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