Mr. Kemp

A.S. B.A. M.Ed.

Room 16

kenyon@texoma.net

www.texoma.net/~dawn

The student will gain a good overall perspective of the nature and scope of government in the United States. The student will also gain insight into the world of US politics and the increasing role of the mass media. Hopefully, students will feel empowered and become participants in the political process while staying informed on current events.

Required Text: McClenaghan, William: American Government (75th Edition) Prentice Hall, 1993 (provided)

Daily Print: Dallas Morning News Fort Worth Star Telegram, Gainesville Daily Register

Monthly/Weekly Print: Time Newsweek USA Today Wall Street Journal US News

WWW: Most branches of the US government now have home pages that can be found with a simple search. (For extensive links visit the class web site)

TV: MSNBC CNBC ABC CBS NBC CNN KERA FOX NEWS CSPAN

Radio: WBAP 820 AM KERA 90.1 FM

Chapter 1 "Principles of Government"

Chapter 2 "Origins Of US Government"

Chapter 3 "The US Constitution"

Chapter 4 "Political Parties"

Chapter 10 "Congress"

Chapter 11 "Powers Of Congress"

Chapter 18 "The Judicial System"

Chapter 13 "The Presidency"

Chapter 12 "Judiciary"

Chapter 9 "Interest Groups"

Chapter 8 "Mass Media"

Tests & Projects = 50 %

Class Work = 30 %

Notebook = 10 %

Class Participation = 10 %

The number of the tests in the course may vary but the student is expected to take all tests, as no grades will be dropped. Students are responsible for scheduling with the instructor a time to make up a missed exam or homework assignment. Exams will vary between short answer, multiple choice, true false, essay, and performance based criteria (like moot court). Tests will include information presented in class & text material not covered in class.

A research paper of seven to ten pages is required of every student in the course. The topic must focus on politics or government in the United States and be approved by the instructor. Students are expected to follow the standard format for references and citations, which will be given. In addition, the student should be aware that plagiarism will not be tolerated.

Students have several opportunities to improve their course grade. Any student who attends or participates in any government or political activity will receive additional 5 points on a test grade. Students must turn in an index card with the activity, date, length of participation, and signature of an appropriate governmental or political official who was also in attendance. A student may attend one activity for each test given during the course.

Students will also receive extra credit for registering to vote or for the selective service. When approaching your 18^th birthday please notify the instructor who will assist you in registering.

1. You must be seated and ready to begin class when the bell rings.
2. Bring your notebook, book, library book, and supplies every day.
3. Only three tardies are allowed per six weeks.
4. Do not talk over others and raise you hand to be recognized.
5. Respect yourself, each other, and each other’s property.
6. Under almost all circumstances, no hall passes will be issued. Please take care of your business on your time.
7. Disruption of class will result in your removal at my disrection. I will not tolerate inappropriate

behavior of any kind.

8. All school rules are to be followed at all times.
9. Students will refrain from racism, sexism, or "picking" on another student.

Cheating or plagiarism will result in a grade of "F" being assigned for that particular test or assignment in addition to disciplinary action.

Inappropriate behavior of any kind will result in disciplinary action.

This course outline and grading policy is for your information and reference. It does not constitute a binding agreement. The instructor is free to alter it or make adjustments as necessary at any time.

1. Students must read at least one book per six weeks on an individual or topic that is related to US government. Books must be approved by the instructor. A written three-page report will be required every six weeks. Your book must accompany you to class on a daily basis as it is considered a class material. Please note that 1984 & Animal farm can not be used since they will be read as a class project above & beyond the other book reports.

E) State and Local Government Friday

1. Each student is required to have a hard cover three ring binder (get a big one if you can). All of your work will be kept inside of your notebook. The notebook constitutes 10 % of your grade each six weeks. You need to bring your notebook every day as it is considered a class material. The notebook should be divided into the following sections with tabbed dividers:

1. Class Notes
2. Vocabulary
3. Class Work & Projects
4. Current Events
5. Book Reports
6. Tests

As an incentive students who elect to take the final or who are not exempt may use their notebook on the final exam.

1) Homework will be assigned in addition to the above standing assignments. It is the responsibility of the student to turn in work when it is due. I do not take late work under normal circumstances.