This course will provide an overview of the significant political and economic characteristics of American society. A major emphasis will be on the functions of the federal government along with the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship. The macroeconomics portion of the course will focus on the operations of the American economy and an understanding of contemporary economic issues. A formal debate is a component of this course.

Units of study include:

• Foundations and Economic Principles of Government

• Foundations of U.S. Government

• Structure and Organization of U.S. Government

• Civil Liberties and Due Process of Law

• Political Parties and Civic Participation

• Debate

• Macroeconomics

• The Government’s Role in the Economy

• International Trade and Foreign Policy Issues

• The Pennsylvania Government and Economy

*Students may choose to take AP European History, AP United States History, or AP Government and Politics in the place of Modern United States History in their senior year.