Government and Economics

Students will study the purposes, principles, and practices of American government as established by the Constitution. Students are expected to understand their rights and responsibilities as citizens and how to exercise these rights and responsibilities in local, state, and national government. Students will learn the structure and processes of the government of the state of Tennessee and various local governments. The reading of primary source documents is a key feature of United States Government and Civics standards.

Available: CHS, MHS, UHS

Portfolio required

The same areas of study will be covered as those listed in U.S. Government. Additional topics and library research will include the study of contemporary issues such as terrorism, U.S. foreign policy, political parties, and selected global issues. Students will complete several projects that will enlarge their perspective concerning our government and how it works.

All students are required to take comprehensive exams at midterm and at the end of the course.

Per State Board policy, honors courses will involve multiple assessment styles.

Available: CHS

Exam Fee: $95.00 (approximately)

AP U.S. Government and Politics is an introductory college-level course in U.S. government and politics. Students cultivate their understanding of U.S. government and politics through analysis of data and text- based sources as they explore topics like constitutionalism, liberty and order, civic participation in a representative democracy, competing policy-making interests, and methods of political analysis.

Available: CHS, UHS

Students will examine the allocation of scarce resources and the economic reasoning used by government agencies and by people as consumers, producers, savers, investors, workers, and voters. Key elements of the course include the study of scarcity, supply and demand, market structures, the role of government, national income determination, money and the role of financial institutions, economic stabilization, and trade. Students will examine the key economic philosophies and economists who have influenced the economies around the world in the past and present. Informational text and primary sources will play an instrumental part of the study of economics where it is appropriate. Topics such as inflation, economic growth/recession and their corresponding relationship to the economy will be included.

Available: CHS, MHS, UHS

In addition to basic Economics, this course will focus on more student directed learning activities. The students will be required to focus on current events that pertain to the areas of study. Presentations, research, simulations, and projects will be incorporated as a part of the course. Students will be encouraged to work independently and cooperatively in various projects.

Available: CHS

Personal Finance is a course designed to inform students how individual choices directly influence occupational goals and future earnings potential. Real world topics covered will include, money management, spending and credit, as well as saving and investing. Students will design personal and household budgets; simulate use of checking and saving accounts; demonstrate knowledge of finance, debt and credit management; and evaluate and understand insurance and taxes. This course will provide a foundational understanding for making informed personal financial decisions.

This course is a graduation requirement and is taken online. Please see your counselors for more information.

Available: CHS, MHS, UHS