GREELEY WEST H.S.
Social Studies Cover Sheet
Mr. Conner
COURSE: AP U.S. Government
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
The AP U.S. Government course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. The course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Students will become acquainted with the variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes.
The AP U.S. Government course prepares students for intermediate and advanced level courses in college by making demands equivalent to those made by a full year introductory college course. Political Science, as an area of study, requires an awareness of the fact that events and changing circumstances constantly effect our study of politics and government. Therefore, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU STAY AWARE OF THE KEY ISSUES OCCURING IN THE NEWS. Scan various media sources weekly for articles dealing with the presidency, Congress, the Supreme Court, political candidates, election news, and political issues.
TEXTBOOK AND MATERIALS:
1. Wilson, James Dilulio, John J. American Government 7th edition. Houghton Mifflin 1998
2. Woll, Peter American Government: Reading and Cases 14th edition. Longman 2003
3. A variety of miscellaneous readings and enrichment materials will also be utilized.
METHODS OF INSTRUCTION:
Lecture and discussion, research projects, essays, analytical and persuasive writings, simulations, debates, small-group/ large –group activities quizzes and exams.
ATTENDANCE:
Refer to the Greeley West/ District 6 attendance policy as stated in the student handbook.
*Regular attendance is essential in passing this course. POOR ATTENDANCE WILL RESULT IN A POOR GRADE.
TARDIES:
Students are expected to be in class every day and on time.. Excessive tardies will result in additional detention time before school, during lunch, or after school.
GRADING PROCEDURE:
1. All assignments, activities, quizzes, and exams will be assessed a point value. Total points earned on these assessments will determine the students’ grade.
2. Attitude, effort, participation, and attendance will all have a bearing on your final grade.
3. Grading Scale 100% - 92% A
91% - 83% B
82% - 70% C
69% - 60% D
Below 60% F
FINAL EXAM:
A final exam will be given to all students who do not take the AP Exam in the spring.
MAKE-UP POLICY:
1. It is the responsibility of the student to get any assignments that they might have missed while absent.
2. No credit will be given for any make-up work as a result of an unexcused absence.
3. All late work must be turned in within 2 weeks of the due date to receive any credit.
CLASSROOM RULES:
1. This is an AP class. Students are required to come to class prepared and ready to participate. We will read, write, and be critical thinkers daily.
2. Appropriate classroom behavior is expected and will be exercised at all times. Respect all other persons in the classroom. Failure to comply may lead to being dropped from the class.
3. Sleeping in class will not be tolerated.
4. No food or drink allowed in the classroom.
5. Cell phones may be, from time to time, incorporated in our daily lessons. When they are not, they need to remain put away.
AP Government Exam Information
The AP Government Exam will be given on the morning of Thursday May 10th. The exam consists of two parts, a multiple choice section and a free response section.
The cost for each exam is $94 or $15 for those who qualify for fee reduction (must qualify byDecember 1, 2017; prices subject to change). Payment plans, additional fee assistance, and scholarships are available if needed. All fees will be placed on the student’s fee account with the school and can be paid through the webstore on the school website or in person in the financial office. Payment for exams should be made by Friday, March 30th, 2018.
All students enrolled in an AP course on February 23rd, 2018 will be registered to take the AP exam. If you and your parents do not wish for you to take the exam, you must complete theAP exam Opt-Outform by February 23rd, 2018. If you are registered for an exam but do not sit the exam, you will be charged a test return fee of $15. If you would like to take an AP exam for a subject you are not enrolled you will need to complete the AP Exam Opt-In form by February 23rd, 2018. All forms can be picked up and returned to the main office.
For questions or concerns please contact Amy Zulauf, Assistant Principal 970-348- 5410, r Zach Armstrong, AP Coordinator,.
I have read and understand the coversheet and will comply with the course expectations.
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