Political Science Y103 Introduction to American Politics

Requirements: There will be three in-class examinations (each will count approximately 25% of final grade). The grade will also be based on four essays (each worth 5% of the final grade), class participation and reading summaries from the Enduring Debate (worth 5% of the final grade). Papers that are not completed on time will be lowered one letter grade, unless special consideration is given by the instructor. Students are expected to read all assigned material and participate in class discussions and are expected to take examinations on the scheduled dates. You must contact the instructor about missed examinations to gain credit for the curse. The instructor must be contacted before the exam or there must be a credible reason for missing the exam times. Make tests will be taken at the convenience of the political Science Department Secretary. Please attempt to take all tests on time.

Course Description: This course is an overview of the American political system. The purpose is to study the foundations of the Constitution of the United States, principles, and policies of government. We will discuss contemporary American politics and its historical development to understand the changing nature of our society. The hope is that this course will help students to understand and appreciate the principles of American government and to encourage our personal commitment to the preservation of the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of democratic popular.

Course Objectives: Students who participate and work to complete this course will be

able to:

a) Understand the foundation of the American political system.

b) Understand the creation, organization, and changing nature of the United States Constitution.

c) Appreciate the diversity of American society.

d) Recognize some of the fundamental issues confronting our society.

e) Understand the three branches of government.

f) Express opinions in writing and in discussion using evidence and opinions.

g) Recognize the importance of participation for the reservation of our democratic system.

Course Outline:

I. Introduction to the American Political Process and Comparative Governments

We The People- Chapter 1

II. The Politics of Race, Class, Gender, and Religion- Civil Rights

We The People- Chapter 5

III. The Constitution: A Bundle of Compromises and Ratification

We The People- Chapter 2

IV. Federalism

We The People- Chapter 3

First Examination-Chapters 1, 2, 3, and 5- February 13, 2008

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V. The Bill of Rights and Civil Liberties

We The People- Chapter 4

VI. The Congress

We The People- Chapter 12

VII. The Presidency

We The People- Chapter 13

Second Examination-Chapters 4, 12, and 13- March 26, 2008

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VIII. The Federal Court System

We The People- Chapter 15

IX. Political Parties and Campaigns

We The People- Chapters 9 and 10

X. Special Interests and Lobbying

We The People- Chapter 11

Third Examination- Chapters 15, 9, 10, and 11- May 7, 2008

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* Tests will come from notes and readings from We The People.

** Forms will be given to the students to complete for the Enduring Debate Readings.