Government

and

Economics

American Government & Economics *this class will be offered via Zoom ONLY.

*A semester payment will be required at the beginning of each semester

​Tutor: Mary Mueller

Length: Full Year

Level: 9th - 12th grade

Prerequisite: None

​Description: Studying the principles of American Government and Economics is critical. The founding fathers created a unique system of government that established a foundation of unprecedented liberty for our nation! With a new level of freedom came a climate of free market enterprise and innovation that transformed the world! In this class, students will learn how the American system was designed to work, and this will be contrasted with other forms of government and economic systems that have existed throughout history and currently exist in our world today.

Throughout the year, we will examine all aspects of the fundamental principles of our legal and economic system. Turning our attention to government, we will explore the very foundations of natural law and common law as opposed to political law. Students will explore the political spectrum and learn to distinguish between republics, democracies, and oligarchies while developing a thorough understanding of man’s inherent rights and how a republic is uniquely able to protect those rights.

Once the foundational principles are understood, we will study the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the rest of the Amendments. The practical aspects of the three branches of government, the division of powers between federal and state governments, and political parties will be examined.

​Our adventure continues by exploring all aspects of our economic, financial, and monetary system. Students will learn:

  • what causes prosperity vs poverty

  • the impact of government spending and regulations on the economy

  • how supply and demand intersect in the free market to bring about maximum prosperity

  • the benefits of self-interest & initiative and the blessings of self-responsibility

  • the history and impact of the federal reserve

  • the principles of John Locke and Adam Smith

  • the benefits of capitalism versus the threat of socialism, Marxism, progressivism

  • the relationship between fiat currency and inflation

This class will bring logical clarity to the swirling misuse of political terminology by the general public and help students to have a competent understanding of the true foundation of our unique political and economic heritage!

Taking this class could prepare a student to take the CLEP Tests for American Government and for Microeconomics as long as the student is willing to study and work diligently, doing all the assignments provided as well as extra credit opportunities given along the way! Sample CLEP tests and a study sheet will be emailed at the end of the year to help any interested student prepare.

Homework: 3 – 5 hours per week, depending on the student’s skills, interest, and motivation


Textbooks for Class:

American Government by A Beka Books (3rd edition)

​Economics by A Beka Books (3rd edition)

Whatever Happened to Justice? by Richard Maybury (newer editions are better)

Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? by Richard Maybury (newer editions are better)

Class Tuition: See the registration form for current prices.