This course is designed to give students a better understanding of the role government plays in our lives at the local, state, and national level. The main emphasis will be on the process of government and public policy, not the structure. While the US Constitution and federal government will be reviewed, the focus will be on state, county and local government and public policy issues. The function, services, and agencies at each level of government will be presented. Agencies and services will be evaluated and discussed by providing students with first hand exposure to government in action. A community service component is available to those students who express a responsible interest in this option.
Grades are based on essays, projects, extended time tasks, as well as traditional homework assignments and tests. Classwork and homework make up the larger portion of the grade, while tests make up the smaller portion. A school exam is given at the end of the course.