Course Description-  Government...This vital course will begin by briefly examining various types of governments found throughout the world.  It then will focus on aspects of the government in the United States such as how it was formed, the principles of democracy, rights and responsibilities of all citizens, the three branches of government, as well as state and local governments.  Students will come to understand the components of the United States and Illinois constitutions and be tested on these components, as well as become familiar with their local government officials. Students will also develop an understanding of the purpose of government by listening to guest speakers from both the law making and law enforcing process.  Often times, when studying Supreme Court Cases, students will be asked "What would you have done?" and be asked to give their educated opinion on topics. Students will also learn about becoming civic-minded citizens, the importance of voting, and will become informed of diverse opportunities to give back to their communities.  Throughout this course, students will take part in a civics action service learning project too.  Students will also take part in a month long mock-election or mock trial, depending on whether it is a presidential election year.

2nd Semester Civics...The purpose of this course is for students to develop a deep understanding of how local government is effected by larger state, federal, and global policies by debating, simulating, and discussing these policies.  In the same respect, they will study the idea that all politics is local, and the significance of the political process.  Students will have opportunities to demonstrate their civic responsibilities as citizens by helping with civic oriented service projects designed to help their school, community, southern Illinois and beyond.  These goals will be achieved by incorporating a number of community resources into the curriculum and even attending some local government meetings.  Finally, students will see how movements gain power from grassroots efforts by studying current and past reform movements, as well as controversial issues that are relevant to today's world. The ultimate goal of the class will be to help students develop a sense of 'place', as well as a sense of their own agency through constructivist methods.