United States Government

Overview: This course examines the foundations of American government, the Constitution, the three branches of government, civil rights and liberties, political participation, and the responsibilities of citizenship. Students will analyze how the United States government operates and how citizens influence the political process.

Unit 1: Foundations of American Government

Principles of Government

Origins of American Government

Declaration of Independence

Articles of Confederation

Constitutional Convention

The United States Constitution

The Bill of Rights

Unit 2: The Legislative Branch

Structure of Congress

Powers of Congress

Congressional Leadership

Committees

How a Bill Becomes a Law

Congressional Responsibilities

Unit 3: The Executive Branch

The Presidency

Presidential Powers

Roles of the President

The Electoral College

Executive Office & Cabinet

The Federal Bureaucracy

Unit 4: The Judicial Branch

The Federal Court System

Judicial Review

The Supreme Court

Landmark Supreme Court Cases

Constitutional Interpretation

Unit 5: Civil Rights & Civil Liberties

The Bill of Rights

First Amendment Freedoms

Due Process

Equal Protection

Civil Rights

Civil Liberties

Unit 6: Elections & Civic Participation

Political Parties

Interest Groups

Campaigns & Elections

Voting Rights

Voter Behavior

Mass Media & Public Opinion