AP US Government & Politics A
SS.HS.V2APGovernmentA.Bnetcopy
This course examines the U.S. political system. Students in this course will discuss political ideology, the development of the political system and democratic institutions. Students should, according to the College Board, gain an "analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States." Furthermore, students will study "both the general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples" throughout hisory. The class discussion will require that students acquire a "familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. politics." The main emphasis of the course, however, is to be able to apply a basic comprehension of the U.S. political system to contemporary events.
Enduring Understanding
The student will understand:
- Examine the kind of government established by the Constitution, paying particular attention to federalism and the separation of powers.
- Understand the theories of a Republican government, pluralism, and elitism.
- Identify that individuals often engage in multiple forms of political participation, including voting, protest, and mass movements.
- Demonstrate understanding in the development and role of special interests in elections and the ideological and demographic differences between the two major parties, as well as third parties.
- Describe the impact of the media on public perception, campaigns, and electoral outcomes.
Essential Questions
- Can government be strong enough to govern without threatening freedom?
- Do the current practices of American Government function in a way that help or hinder democratic ideals?
- Does the government have an obligation to protect or create liberty?
- How does the American political system diffuse social conflict?
Content Topics
Unit 1
Constitutional Underpinnings of the United States Government
Unit 2
Political Beliefs & Behaviors
Unit 3
Political Parties, Interest Groups, & Mass Media
Key Skills
- Policy Analysis
- Critical Thinking
- Analytical Thinking
- Reading & Interpreting Data
- Vocabulary Comprehension
- Marshalling Evidence/Documentation
Assessments
- Free Responses
- Essays
- Multiple Choice Exams
- Wikis Collaboration
- Research Papers
- Policy Analysis Papers
- Position Papers
- Blogs (journals)
- Book/Article Critiques
- Issue Reaction Papers
- Case Briefs
Standards Alignment:
PA State Standards:
5.1 Principles and Documents of Government
12.A- Analyze the sources, purposes, and functions of law.
5.3 How Government Works
12.H- Evaluate the impact of interest groups on the political process.
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