University of North Texas—Departmentof Political Science
American Government
PSCI 1040.009—Fall 2014
Auditorium, TR 11:00 – 12:20 pm
Professor: Dr. Jim Meernikemail:office: 139 Wooten Hall
Office Hours: Wednesdays 10:00 – 12:00; Thursdays 1:00 – 2:00; and always by appointment.
Phone: 940.565.2684(office) / 940.565.2276 (Political Science)
Teaching Assistants:
A – B: Yen-Hsin (Clyde) Chen ( ) Wooten Hall 127. 369-7380.
Office Hours: Mondays and Wednesdays 1:00 – 2:30.
C – F: Kevin Faulk ( ) Wooten Hall 160. 369-8715.
Office Hours: Thursdays 1:30-4:30.
G – K: Timothy Haglund ( ) Wooten Hall 169. 891-6804.
Office hours: 9:00–10.30, Tuesdays and Thursdays.
L – N: Tatyana Kisin ( ) Wooten Hall 160. 565-4031.
Office Hours: Mondays 9:00 – 12:00.
O – S: Amalia Pulido-Gomez ( ) Wooten Hall 167. 565-2247.
Office Hours: Mondays10:00 – 1:00.
T – Z: Michael Widmeier ()Wooten Hall 169. 891-6804.
Office Hours: Wednesdays 1:00 – 4:00.
Required Texts:
1) Politics and Government in America and the Lone Star State: Custom Edition for the University of North TexasPolitical Science 1040. Includes: Understanding American Politics and Government. John J. Coleman, Kenneth M. Goldstein and William G. Howell; and Government and Politics in the Lone Star State, 8th Edition, eds. L. Tucker Gibson Jr., and Clay M. Robinson (hereinafter CTB-Custom Textbook).
2) PSCI 1040 Workbook: Laws and Institutions, Matthew Eshbaugh-Soha (editor). {Hereinafter, WB for Workbook}.Available: only in eBook (electronic format) through Blackboard or the bookstore.
3) Required on the Web: (Blackboard).All materials for the class are online in three units that “appear” as we move through the semester. You must call the Student Help Desk FIRST if you are having computer or technology issues (e.g.having trouble submitting assessments online, taking quizzes, etc.).The desk contactsme if multiple students are having the same problem. Always have the desk fill out a “remedy ticket” so wecan trace your call in the system.We must have a remedy ticket number.
UIT Helpdesk
Phone: (940) 565-2324, Call in: Mon.-Th. 8am-12 am; Fri. 8am-8pm; Sat. 9am-5pm; Sun. 1pm-12 am
In person: Sage Hall (Rm. 130)–Mon.-Fri. 8 am-8 pm (closed weekends)
Email: & Website:
***Remember that ALL emails from now GO DIRECTLY TO your my.unt.edu email (Eagle Connect
4) Required Hardware: You must purchase a Turning Point Response Card (aka “clicker”)availableat UNT bookstores (must be Turning Point Technology-othersare not compatible!)! Clickers allowstudents to answer interactive questions with the push of a button. Purchasing a Turning Point TechnologiesResponse Card(it is now also possible to use ResponseWare—more information on this in class). Ask the bookstore to get the clicker for Political Science (it looks like a small garage door opener). Every course at UNT(except Biology) usesTurning Point. Keep your receipt (and box) in case of problemsor the bookstorescannot fix or replace it! If you have ausedclicker, you may want to purchase spare batteries (look for the round flat medical battery). Take care of the clicker and do not just put it where something “sits” on it (wearing the battery out). Clickers cannot be registered to two people at the same time; make sure you get your own!Remove the plastic cover on the top of new clickers (results inclicker “not clicking” anda “0” for participation)! See your Teaching Assistant IMMEDIATELY if your clicker appears to be malfunctioning.
Ensure you register your clicker through Blackboard.
There is also the option of using your smart phone or computer to click in – more information will be given in class on this.
Objectives: This courseexamines the key institutions of the U.S. political system. The framework for evaluating our unique federal and state structure considers the structure established by the framers of the U.S. Constitution and the subsequent changes in the system by participants. The state of Texas has a unique historical and political importance within U.S. political development and so we highlight the similarities and differences between federal and state politics, institutions, and public policy. By the end of the course you should be able to do the following:
* understand basic concepts of American government and our democratic institutions;
* understand the frameworks, similarities & differences of each institution;
* understand how our institutions have changed over time;
* understand the political roles of leaders within each of the institutions;
* understand the policy priorities that institutions emphasize;
* understand inter- and intra-institutional conflicts;
* understand the histories and interpretations of the U.S. and Texas Constitutions;
* understand how constitutions contribute to socio-political change;
* understand federalism as compared to other forms of government;
* discuss current policy issues;
* discuss arguments both for and against the adoption of certain policies;
* formulate policy arguments about issues on the U.S. agenda;
* explain “who gets what, when and how” within the structure of the U.S. system;
* explicate the policy priorities that institutions emphasize;
* explain how political scientists examine and study policy processes;
* discuss current policy issues facing our U.S. and Texas systems;
* discuss arguments both for and against the adoption of certain policies; and
* discuss how political scientists examine conflict and consensus among participants;
Course Policies: First, this class operates under a "noexcuse" policy and a “taxpayer theory” of education. You should take full advantage of the democracy you paid for with your tuition dollars. As a member of the community, you have rights and responsibilities, and there are policies in place to help with the smooth functioning of government (e.g., this class). You have the right of redress and of assistance if you have issues with the course. You should learn to help yourself,recognizing that you are part of the community and culture of the course. All materials are designed to encourage student engagement and to develop an “active citizenry”. Materials (including notes) are copyrighted, and no one is authorized to sell, distribute, or otherwise make available any course products for economic benefit.
Second, if you have unique learning needs or are physically challenged, every attempt is made to provide reasonable accommodations. You should see me by the end of the first week of class so we can make appropriate arrangements. This class operates in accordance with the Office of Disability requirements at the University of North Texas and pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) (please see attached).
Third, please consult the policy regarding academic honesty (last page). Having other students complete your assignments, submit online materials, or click in for you in class are grounds for punitive actions. All workbook assignments, quizzes, and tests must be your work and aresubject to university penaltiesin UNT’s policy.Watch the following this videoif you are unsure about constitutes plagiarism.
Fourth, the schedulebelow outlines the topics, readings, and assignments. All material must be read in advance of the date assigned. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE TO SUBMIT MATERIALS BECAUSE TECHNOLOGY WILL MESS WITH YOU!! You must read for class discussions and there are on-the-spot questions over class material. Even if there is no assigned reading on a given day, you are expected to attend class unless directed otherwise.
Sixth, because of the size of the class there are several "do not disturb policies". If you are late or leave early, please do not disturb others. You cannot make up missed “clicker” questions, but do not worry, there are so many it does not make much difference if you miss a few. It is systematically missing that harmsyour grade. I do not allow the use of beepers, cell phones, walk-mates, or any other device that makes noise. Please turn these off before class. Students who have complaints about others' disruptive behavior should first talk to the classmate who is disruptive and then see their teaching assistant and then me. The potential sanctions for disruption include moving you to a different seat, asking you to leave for the day, dropping you from the class, or giving you an "F" for the course for repeat disruptions. You are not supposed to bring food or drinkto class.
Seventh, students are encouraged to use laptop computers during lectures and notes are posted online for each chapter (be sure the sound is muted).
Eighth, I offer opportunities for extra credit. Lectures on campus, television programs, films, debates, and presidential or legislative addresses are all possibilities and vary by semester. Extra credit is announced in class or on email, and may beposted on Blackboard. There are "expiration dates" for the extra credit, so turn it in by the due date and according to instructions. I reserve the right to refuse extra credit if you miss the class when it was assigned. Extra credit is applied to your total points. Please make a copy of ALL extra credit assignments before sending it on Blackboard.
Ninth,this course relies heavily on technology. You use it every day in class, and you use Blackboard regularly (you need your EUID and password). All students registered for the class are added the first day of class. Messages are sent often, so be sure you can access the online materialsat least every two days. Students who are ideologically opposed tothe Internet or those who are technologically challenged should drop this course NOW! You will not do well. You will receive communications often at your my.unt.edu email address.
If you are having troubles with computer access, you must contact the UNT Helpdesk because they handle help with online materials.They are on-call during scheduled hours. Email: Phone: (940) 565-2324 Office: Rm.130 Sage Hall. Website: them of the issue, and they keep me posted. When in doubt, university computer labs and assistants can assist you with submitting materials. If you are having problems with a personal computer, you may have to go to a lab or university computer to submit materials. I make every endeavor to keep you posted online about any technology issues so check your email and the discussion “Help” board. I reserve the authority to change assignments if there are technological glitches.
Tenth, the University may cancel classes for emergency reasons. In the event that classes are canceled, and there is a workbook or exam scheduled for that class day, the work will be due on the next regular class day we are scheduled to meet.
Eleventh, you can only take make up exams early if you have an approved absence in advance. You cannot make up an exam if you notify me of such a request during or after the exam. If you cannot take the exam before it is given to the class, and you have an approved excuse, you may be able to take it on the "Day for MakeUps" (during the last week of classes) in room 125 Wooten (see below). You may not make up more than one exam even if you have an excused absence. The makeup test is essay and drawn from the unit you missed. Please bring photo identification, documentation for the absence, and a pen/pencil.
Finally, this syllabus is not a contract, and I reserve the authority to change requirements by providing you with sufficient advance notice of changes in class and on Blackboard. You are responsible for any changes that may occur during the course of the semester.
Course evaluation: Scale & Percentages A=90+; B=8089.9; C=7079.9; D=60.969 F=0-59.9
1) 3 inclass multiple choice exams = 60% (20% each exam) exams are not cumulative
2) 5 workbook assignments = 20% (4% each assignment) Submitted online
3) Completion of In-Class Clicker Exercises = 20%(daily in class lecture)
Too often students wait until the end of the semester to speak to someone about their grades and how poorly they are doing in class. THE FIRST TIME YOU RECEIVE AN UNSATISFACTORY GRADE, SEEK HELP! Waiting until the end of the term is TOO LATE! It becomes very difficult to improve your class average once 75% or so of the work has been completed. No matter what is going on in your life, get help.
Exams(3 tests worth 60%—20% each test): There are 3 inclass, closed book exams. The exams are 100% multiplechoice with 50 questions(using the entire class period). Exams are non-cumulative because we focus on the specific topics and reading assignments for each unit. We review every day in class for the exam, so bring questions about the material. The exam is drawn from approximately 75% class lecture/power point slides/clicker materials and 25% exclusively from the textbook.
Workbook Assignments (worth 20% of your grade):The workbook assignments are multiple choice questions that you will access through Blackboard. You have multiple attempts and your score will be the last score you earn for a particular set of questionswith unlimited time until Friday at 11:59pm on the week the assignment is due according to the schedule below.You can continue to access the Workbook questions for one week after the due date, but you will only earn 50% of the possible points. Thereafter, there is no credit for answering the questions. Each studentis required to submit his/her own workbook assignments.
Clickers (Daily in-class questions and polls worth 20% of your grade):This course relies on Response Cards (“clickers”) to encourage dynamic interaction during class. The first clicker question is typically given within the first 10 minutes of class and the last one during the closing segment. Your grade is a percentage of times you “click” in, and if you get the questions right. Students receive partial credit for clicking in and full credit for clicking in with the correct answer. See me if you have reason to believe the clicker is malfunctioning (especially if it happens during the middle of class, if it stops then come up immediately and see me-no excuses!). There are instructional videos online to register your clicker (it must be registered to accurately record your participation). BRING CLICKERS TO CLASS BEGINNING THE FIRST DAY AND EVERY DAY!
Assignments & Schedule-Reading are due by the first day of class under the week it appears. Tests are during regular class time. CTB refers to the Custom Textbook, WB refers to the Workbook. M/Tu/W/Th/F refers to days of the week.
Week 1 Aug. 26 & Aug. 28
Lecture: Welcome to All Politics All the Time: Course Requirements, Intellectual Expectations, Policies, How to Succeed (Syllabus, Clickers; Blackboard)
Reading:
-Syllabus, Blackboard requirements
-geton complete the Blackboard Tutorial if needed & complete the “Start Here” module
-register your clicker online in Blackboard
Aug. 28
Lecture: Culture & Politics Collide
Reading:
-CTB Chapter TX1 The Social and Economic Milieu of Texas Politics pp. TX2-TX27
-CTB Chapter 2 Political Culture pp. 22-57
Week 2 Sept. 24
Lecture: Culture & Politics Collide
Reading:
-CTB Chapter TX1 The Social and Economic Milieu of Texas Politics pp. TX2-TX27
-CTB Chapter 2 Political Culture pp. 22-57
Week 3 Sept. 9 & 11
Lecture: Democracy: Best or Least Worst Option?
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 3 The Constitution pp. 60-97
-CTB Chapter TX2 The Texas Constitution pp. TX32-TX86
-WB Chapter 1: The Constitution
-WB assignment #1 due online Friday, 9/12 by 11:59 pm.Do all multiple choice questions in Chapter 1 (20 questions).
Week 4 Sept. 16 & 18
Lecture: Federalism
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 4 Federalism pp. 100-138
-WB Chapter 2: Federalism
Online:
-WB assignment #2 due onlineFriday, 9/19 by 11:59 pm.Do all multiple choice questions in Chapter 2 (17 questions).
Week 5 Sept. 23 & 25
Lecture & Readings: Catch up for the test this week!
TEST – THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
UNIT I EXAM covers CTB Chps. 1, 2, 3, 4, TX 1 & TX 2 / WB Chps. 1, 2.
Week 6Sept. 30Oct. 2
Lecture:Power, Politics & Gridlock
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 13 Congress pp. 428-462
-CTB Chapter TX4 The Texas Legislature pp. TX92-TX128
-WB Chapter 3: The Legislative Branch
Online:
-WB assignment #3 due online Friday, 10/3 by 11:59 pm.Do all multiple choice questions in Chapter 3 (17 questions).
Week 7 Oct. 79
Lecture: Separate Institutions Sharing Power?
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 13 Congress pp. 428-462
-CTB Chapter TX4 The Texas Legislature pp. TX92-TX128
-WB Chapter 3: The Legislative Branch
Week 8 Oct. 14 & 16
Lecture: Power Politics
-CTB Chapter 14 The Presidency pp. 466-502
-CTB Chapter TX5 The Texas Executive pp. TX134-TX163
-WB Chapter 4: The Presidency
-WB assignment #4 due onlineFriday, 10/17 by 11:59 pm.Do all multiple choice questions in Chapter4 (22 questions).
Week 9 Oct. 21 & 23
Lecture: Wrapped Up in Red Tape
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 16 The Bureaucracy pp. 536-567
-CTB Chapter TX5 The Texas Executive pp. TX134-TX163
-CTB Chapter TX6 The Texas Bureaucracy and Policy Implementation pp. 168-185-WB Chapter 7:
Online:
WB Chapter 5: The Bureaucracy
Week 10 Oct. 28 & 30
Lecture: Catching up and getting ready for the test this week!
Reading: Review materials online for test
TEST – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 30TH
UNIT II EXAM-Covers CTB Chps. 13,14,16, TX 4 & TX 5 / WB Chapters 3, 4 and 5.
Weeks 11 & 12Nov. 4, 6, 11 & 13
Lecture: Runaway Judiciary?
Reading:
-CTB Chapter 15 The Federal Court System pp. 506-532
-CTB Chapter TX7 The Judicial System in Texas pp. TX190-TX220
-WB Chapter 6: The Courts
-WB assignment #5 due onlineFriday, 11/7 by 11:59 pm.Do all multiple choice questions in Chapter 6 (17 questions).
Weeks13 & 14 Nov. 18, 20 & 25 (Thanksgiving Break Nov 27-Nov. 30)