The AP United States Government and Politics
course will give students an analytical
perspective on government and politics in the
United States. This course includes both the
study of general concepts used to interpret U.S.
government and politics and the analysis of
specific examples. It also requires familiarity
with the various institutions, groups, beliefs,
and ideas that constitute U.S. government and
politics as well as with a variety of
theoretical perspectives and explanations for
various behaviors and outcomes. By providing
students with an understanding of the purpose of
government, how it works, and the
responsibilities of citizens living in a
democratic society, this course seeks to create
socially and politically informed students who
possess the ability to make future decisions
that will ensure the survival of the ideals that
America was founded upon.
Students successfully completing this course
will:
Ø Understand the purpose of government.
Ø Compare and contrast different forms of government.
Ø Examine and Analyze the political theories that formed the foundation for the U.S. government.
Ø Understand the roles and responsibilities of the different branches of the American government.
Ø Examine how interpretations of the Constitution have change over time.
Ø Understand and Critique the American election process.
Ø Analyze and Interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics (including data presented in charts, tables, and other formats)
Ø Detect bias in the media, political commentaries, and political campaigns.
Ø Trace the evolution of Americans’ civil rights and liberties
Ø
Critically Evaluate
relevant theories and concepts, apply them
appropriately, and develop their connections
across the curriculum
Our ultimate objective will be reached on Tuesday, May 15, 2012 at 8:00am, when each of you will sit down fully prepared to OWN the AP Examination in American Government and Politics!