This course is an introductory course designed to give you an overview of the American government, its' institutions, processes, and core principles.  You're not expected to have any prior knowledge of politics, we'll take it one step at a time and learn together.  Since this class is an introductory course, not all students come into it with the same level of knowledge; however, any student that attends class regularly, completes the assignments in a timely manner and makes an effort to engage the material will be successful in this course.  We will evaluate popular conceptions/misconceptions about the government and make clear those aspects that are not well known or understood.   We will look at the future of the American government and the challenges and issues it will face.  The intent of the course is to enhance our understanding and illuminate important features of the United States political system. 

Accessible Plain file for downloading or viewing:  Political Science Syllabus

Student Learning Outcomes

Number of coursework hours and attendance

Textbook Information

Grading

Classroom Policies

Student Learning Resources

Asynchronous course:  This is an asynchronous course meaning you are able to work on the assignments and exams at a day and time best for your schedule.  There are no scheduled zoom or in-person meetings.  You can, however, use the Pronto app to connect with your professor at any time.  Weekly and continual attendance is mandatory to ensure you stay enrolled in the course which is tracked through your participation in the discussions.   If you are continuously absent without notifying the instructor, the instructor may drop you from the course.

When you're done viewing the syllabus you can return to the Orientation Module or the Home page.

(Activities are extra credit and optional)

Week of:	Read	Due on Wednesdays	Due on Sundays
Oct 25	Introduction Module Chapter 1 Civic Engagement Chapter 2 Constitution	Introduction Discussion  Discussion for Chapter 1 due Oct 27
Nov 1	Chapter 4 Civil Liberties	NO discussion this week	Quiz 1# on Chapters 1 and 2 due Nov 7
Nov 8	Chapter 5 Civil Rights Chapter 6 Public Opinion	Discussion for Chapter 4 due Nov 10
Nov 15	Chapter 7 Voting & Elections	NO discussion this week	Quiz #2 on Chapters 4, 5 and 6 due Nov 21
Nov 22	Chapter 9 Political Parties Chapter 10 Interest Groups	Optional Discussion for Chapter 9 due Nov 24 Extra credit
Nov 29	Chapter 11 Congress	No Discussion this week	Quiz 3# on Chapters 7, 9, and 10 due Dec 5
Dec 6	Chapter 12 President Chapter 13 Courts	Discussion for Chapter 11 due Dec 8
Dec 13		Last Discussion (optional)	Quiz 4# on Chapters 11, 12, and 13 due Dec 19 (last day of class)