Civics and Government A
SS.12.CivicsGovernmentBTFv2.Bnet4copy
In this course, students will be introduced to the major ideas, institutions, and issues in American government and politics. The course will focus is on how the structure of our political system influences the practice of politics at the national level; along with the ongoing struggles among competing groups and individuals for influence over government activities and public policy. Students will challenged to: 1) ignite in you an appreciation of government and politics and to change the way you look at the world; 2) give you the tools and skills required to make sense of political issues and debates and to become a more informed participant if you so choose and 3) help you sharpen your critical thinking and writing skills by way of analysis of key issues in American politics
Enduring Understanding
The student will understand:
- Exercise the rights and responsibilities afforded to them.
- Exhibit respect for the rule of law and its role in serving the common good.
- Engage in service to the community and participate in government.
- Solve problems and work within the rules and operations of government.
- Refine skills in developing critical research skills and information filters.
- Employ civil discourse in discussing issues and solving problems with other citizens.
- Register and cast a vote as an informed voter and assist others in voter registration.
Essential Questions
- What does it mean to be a citizen and what are my responsibilities as a citizen?
- How does politics and government impact my life?
- How do the concepts of limited and unlimited governments influence me as a citizen?
- What is the purpose of constitutions?
- How do the foundations of the American Political system influence life in America today?
- What is the American idea of constitutional government and how does this idea establish my rights and define my responsibilities?
- What is American Political Culture and how do my beliefs about politics fit into this culture?
- How does the American government embody the purposes, values, and principles of the American Democracy?
- What role does the United States play as a democratic nation in world affairs?
- What impact does the free enterprise system have on me and my life as a U.S. citizen?
- Can government be strong enough to govern without threatening freedom?
- Does the government have an obligation to protect or create freedoms?
- How does the American political system diffuse conflict?
Additional Resources Needed
Technology Needs
Adobe Reader
Adobe Flash Player
Adobe Shockwave Player
Quicktime
Java
Media Player
Content Topics
Unit 1
Principles and Origins of Government
Unit 2
Federalism and the Constitution
Unit 3
Political Parties and Interest Groups
Unit 4
Electoral Process and Voter Behavior
Unit 5
Mass Media and Public Opinion
Unit 6
Comparative Political Systems and Comparative Economic Systems
Key Skills
- Active Citizenship
- Rights and Responsibilities
- Reading and Comprehension
- Writing to learn
- Essay development
- Persuasive writing
- Informational writing
- Note taking
- Understanding current political issues
Assessments
- Essays
- Reports
- Reading Tasks
- Writing Prompts
- Position Papers
- Posters
- Tests
Standards Alignment:
PA State Standards:
This document includes Pennsylvania standards for Civics and Government that describe what students should know and be able to do in four areas:
5.1. Principles and Documents of Government
5.2. Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship
5.3. How Government Works
5.4. How International Relationships Function
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