What you'll learn

Define the roles and responsibilities of each branch of government
To analyze the functions of the American three branches of government
To explain the structure of American government
Complete a research paper on one branch of government (legislative, executive, or judicial)

Course content

5 sections • 22 lectures • 1h 5m total length

Introduction and Course Syllabus10:29
I introduce myself as your online Instructor and review the course syllabus.
Day 1: Welcome and Background9:56
Hello!
My name is Christopher Mano, I will be your instructor for this course, and I would like to welcome you to our first day of our American Government course.
Today, we’re going to start by exploring the essential question: What is government?
We’ll discuss what government does, the different types of government systems, and how the U.S. government fits into this larger framework.

You will also learn about key ideas like democracy, liberty, and justice, and understand their importance to the American political system.

Prior to beginning our course you should focus on completing the following items:
1. Review the course syllabus and reach out with any questions or concerns. I am dedicated on providing the best rigorous and holistic learning experience.
2. Complete the Pre-Assessment: Also, please remember to complete the KWL chart before and throughout the course to track what you already know "K", want to learn "W", and what you learned in the course "L".

Let’s get started!
Day 2: The Constitutional Convention of 178710:32
Objectives:
1) Analyze a primary source document based on the U.S. Constitution
2) Research and outline a public policy issue

Goals:
1. To identify the role of government
2. Analyze selected excerpts from the US Constitution

1. To begin class please complete the KWL (5 minutes) (pre-assessment)
Read Article II (10 minutes)
QOD: Who was the author of the U.S. Constitution?

2. Constitution DBQs (20 minutes each)
Read and complete DBQ

Additional Asynchronous/Homework activities: Write a one-page reflection on why the US Constitution needed to be adopted and select one issue that you would like to learn more about in class.
US Constitutional Convention and Document-Based Questions
Exit Ticket
Day 3: Rights and Responsibilities of U.S. Citizens0:29
Objectives:
a. Identify and explain 2-3 rights and responsibilities of citizens guaranteed by the US Constitution.
b. Compare and contrast the difference between a right and a responsibility
Journal Reflection and Exit Ticket
Day 4: Three Branches of Government3:14
Objectives:
a) Identify the three branches of government
b) List and explain 2-3 powers of the three branches of American government
c) Analyze how the three branches of government interact through checks and balances
Three Branches of Government Activities
Day 5: The Legislative Branch and The Congress0:36
Objectives:
1) Explain the powers of Congress
2) Understand how a bill comes law
3) Examine an issue of public policy
Legislative Branch Activities
Day 6: The Executive Branch and the President1:16
Objectives:
a) Identify powers of the President of the United States and executive branch
b) Examine and analyze the organization of the executive branch
Day 7: The Judicial Branch and the Supreme Court0:22
Objectives:
a) Understand and explain the concept of precedent and its influence in government by evaluating various sources
b) Advocate for a position of an issue of public policy through participating in a case study of a judicial issue before the U.S. Supreme Court

Day 1: Federalism2:11
Objectives:
a) Explain the relationship between the national and state governments
b) Understand the major powers of the federal and state governments
c) Describe the concept of Sovereignty
Day 2: The Political Process2:31
Objectives:
1) Explain the political processes behind passing legislation
2) Analyze a key policy issue and explain its importance in American society
Day 3: Overview of the Economic System3:02
Objectives:
1. Describe the differences between a command and free market economy
2. Explain the role of a market
3. Identify the purpose of goods and services
Day 4: Duties of Citizens3:41
Objectives:

1. Understand the duty of civic participation in a democracy
2. Explain how civic participation leads to a more productive society
Duties of Citizens Questions

Day 1: Federalism Continued1:31
Objectives: Explain the concept of federalism and its role in the U.S. government system
Identify which level of government handles each function
Day 2: The Federal Government's Structure and Functions1:58
Objectives: Describe the roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches at the federal level
U.S. vs. Alvarez
Day 3: State Government Functions1:23
Objectives: Understand the role of state governments and their unique functions.
Day 4: Local Government Roles and Responsibilities2:14
Objectives: Explore the various types of local governments and their roles.
Match the Local Government Roles with their Responsibilities
Day 5: Intergovernmental Functions1:02
Objectives: Analyze how federal, state, and local governments work together.

Day 1: History of Voting Rights in the U.S.2:20
Objective: Understand the evolution of voting rights and key legislation
Voting Rights Case Assignment
Key Amendments Quiz
Day 2: Elections1:42
Objectives: Explain the different types of elections.
Day 3: Political Parties and their Role in Democracy2:06
Objectives: Analyze the role of political parties in shaping elections and governance.
Day 4: Making A Difference - Civic Engagement2:40
Objectives: To highlight the importance of voter turnout and other forms of civic participation.

Requirements

A computer with internet access
Google Docs
Microsoft Office
Access to downloadable content in the course
Set aside 3-5 hours weekly to complete assignments.
Willingness to have a growth mindset by practicing concepts and completing exercises

Description

This course provides an in-depth exploration of the fundamental principles, structures, and functions of the U.S. government and the rights and responsibilities of American citizens. Through examining the Constitution, key historical documents, and the operations of local, state, and federal systems, students will gain a thorough understanding of the American political system. Key topics include the foundations of American democracy, the separation of powers, federalism, civil rights, elections, and the role of government in shaping society. Students will also explore the relationship between citizens and government, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement, critical thinking, and informed decision-making in a democratic society.

By the completion of this course, students should be able to:

1. Understand the founding principles of American democracy and the Constitution.

2. Analyze the roles and functions of government at the local, state, and federal levels.

3. Evaluate the significance of civil rights and liberties in U.S. history.

4. Examine the electoral process and the importance of voting and civic engagement.

5. Develop skills to critically assess political issues and participate thoughtfully in public discourse.

Throughout the course, students will engage with historical texts, current events, and interactive activities designed to foster active participation and a deeper understanding of American government. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to be responsible, informed citizens and active participants in the democratic process.

Who this course is for:

Undergraduate students
Citizens interested in civic education

What you'll learn

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Course content

Week 1: Foundations of American Democracy8 lectures • 37min

Week 2: Federalism and Systems in American Society4 lectures • 11min

Week 3: Federal, State, and Local Government Functions5 lectures • 8min

Week 4: Voting, Elections, and Political Participation4 lectures • 9min

Week 5: Course Closure and Additional Resources1 lecture • 1min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: