American Government
2017-2018
Mrs. Jaime Gallagher
The government course provides students with a background in the philosophy, functions, and structure of the United States government. Students examine the philosophical foundations of the United States government and how that philosophy developed. Students also examine the structure and function of the United States government and its relationship to states and citizens. –Georgia Department of Education
Required Materials: 3-ring binder with lined notebook paper
Black or Blue ink pen(s)
Mechanical Pencil(s)
Highlighter(s) (optional)
Course Pacing: 1st 9 Weeks – Introduction, Philosophies and Foundations of Government,
Federal System, Legislative Branch
2nd 9 Weeks – Executive Branch, Judicial Branch, Civil Rights and Liberties
Note: The syllabus is subject to change when necessary in order to meet all the objectives for this course.
Grading (9 Weeks):
Formative Assessments 45% - (Including homework, content quizzes; vocabulary quizzes; and reading, writing, and research assignments)
Summative Assessments 55% - (Including Chapter and Unit tests and Unit assessments).
Class Procedures and Expectations
1. Always bring required materials (book, notebook with paper, writing utensil) to class. Not doing so will result in a reduced daily grade. This is class is required for graduation and you will not pass this class if you repeatedly fail to bring the materials to class.
2. Be in your seat BEFORE the tardy bell rings. This is a school policy that will be enforced. Remain in your seat unless given permission to be up.
3. Common courtesies shall be exercised, including but not limited to: paying attention, raising your hand before speaking, only one person speaking at a time, and respecting others and their property and opinions.
4. Take care of all business before class begins (sharpening pencils, using the restroom, getting your materials out, etc.). Hall passes will not be given for any reason except for 2 passes for the semester – to be explained in class.
5. NO EATING, DRINKING, OR SLEEPING IN CLASS!
6. No late work will be accepted except in extenuating circumstances.
7. Arrangements to make up work MUST be made within 3 days of the absence according to school policy. It is the student’s responsibility to obtain missed assignments, NOT the teacher’s.
8. Plagiarism and cheating (including copying another student’s work) will not be tolerated.
9. All other rules in the student handbook shall be followed – no exceptions!
Consequences
1st Offense – Verbal Warning
2nd Offense – Parent Contact
3rd Offense – In School Detention or Lunch Detention
4th Offense – Referral
5th Offense – Conference
**Any complete disrespect, severe interruption, inappropriate behavior or violation of school policy will immediately result in a referral.
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Mrs. Jaime Gallagher – Instructor
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Parent/Guardian Signature
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Student Signature
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Date
American Government/Civics Social Studies Georgia Performance Standards
SSCG1 Compare and contrast various systems of government.
SSCG2 Demonstrate knowledge of the political philosophies that shaped the development of United States constitutional government.
SSCG3 Demonstrate knowledge of the framing and structure of the United States Constitution.
SSCG4 Demonstrate knowledge of the organization and powers of the national government.
SSCG5 Demonstrate knowledge of the federal system of government described in the United States Constitution.
SSCG6 Analyze the meaning and importance of each of the rights guaranteed under the Bill of Rights and how each is secured.
SSCG7 Demonstrate knowledge of civil liberties and civil rights.
SSCG8 Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative branch of government.
SSCG9 Explain the impeachment and removal process and its use for federal officials as defined in the U.S. Constitution. SSCG10 Demonstrate knowledge of the executive branch of government.
SSCG11 Explain the functions of the departments and agencies of the federal bureaucracy.
SSCG12 Describe the tools used to carry out United States foreign policy, including diplomacy and treaties; economic, military, and humanitarian aid; and sanctions and military intervention.
SSCG13 Demonstrate knowledge of the operation of the judicial branch of government.
SSCG14 Demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice process.
SSCG15 Demonstrate knowledge of local, state, and national elections.
SSCG16 Analyze the difference between involuntary and voluntary participation in civic life.
SSCG17 Demonstrate knowledge of the organization and powers of state and local government described in the Georgia Constitution.