Overview: How does the Executive Branch influence both domestic policy and international relations?

In this unit, students will delve into the intricacies and inner workings of the Executive Branch, going beyond the traditional perception of the role of the President. They will explore the Constitutional requirements of the president and the crucial role of the Vice President. The unit will place special emphasis on the election of the president, with a detailed examination of the Electoral College and its function. Students will also explore the role and function of the Cabinet and the Departments they oversee. The unit will conclude with an evaluation of the powers of the president, both perceived and literal, and an assessment of the true strength of the Chief Executive as an institution of power and enforcement. Additionally, students will evaluate the reliability, credibility, and influence of traditional and non-traditional media, including social media, on government policy and public opinion.

The highlighted evidence outcomes are the priority for all students, serving as the essential concepts and skills. It is recommended that the remaining evidence outcomes listed be addressed as time allows, representing the full breadth of the curriculum.

Students Can (Evidence Outcomes):

• Analyze the role of comparative advantage in international trade of goods and services. (3.4.a)

• Describe worldwide import/export patterns. (3.4.b)

• Explain how trade policies affect international trade and domestic markets. Including but not limited to: free trade, tariffs, quotas, subsidies, and current policies. (3.4.c)

• Explore the effects of current globalization trends and policies. For example: Economic growth, labor markets, the rights of citizens, and the environment in different nations. (3.4.d)

• Describe and evaluate the effectiveness and acceptability of a variety of methods of civic participation that individuals and groups may use to shape policy at various levels of government. (4.1.b)

• Explain the roles and influence of individuals, groups, and the press, as checks on governmental practices. For example: Direct contact with elected officials, participation in civic organizations, use of social media, and attendance at local governance meetings. (4.1.c)

• Evaluate traditional and non-traditional types of media (both historic and modern), including social media for reliability, credibility, and how they may influence government policy and public opinion. (4.1.d)

• Describe the origins, purposes, and limitations of government, and include the contribution of key philosophers and American historical figures of diverse backgrounds. (4.2.a)

• Identify the structure, function, and roles of current members of local, state, and national governments. Including but not limited to: understanding the three branches of government at each level of government. (4.2.b)

• Explain the principles of a democracy and analyze how competing democratic values are balanced. For example: Freedom and security, individual rights and common good, general welfare, and rights and responsibilities. (4.2.d)

• Compare and contrast how other systems of government function. For example: Authoritarian regimes, parliamentary, and other systems. (4.2.i) 

• Describe how members of a civil society can impact public policy on local, state, national, or international issues by exercising their civic rights and responsibilities. For example: Participation in primaries and general elections, contact with elected officials, petitions, protesting, attending public forums, or through initiatives and referenda. (4.3.a)

• Analyze the impact of state and federal policies on campaigns and elections. For example: PACs, campaign finance, gerrymandering/redistricting, state and federal voting laws and regulations, Colorado’s voting laws, and the Federal Election Commission. (4.3.c)

• Analyze how individual rights have been affected over time by court decisions, legislative debates at various levels of government, or by the advocacy of individuals and groups. (4.3.d)

•  Examine how people in other systems of government exercise their civic rights and responsibilities. (4.3.e)

• Examine the advantages and disadvantages of a two-party system or a multiparty system within a democratic government. (4.3.f)