American Politics

Student Learning Outcomes, Goals, Objectives:

Students successfully completing this course will be able to:

• Introduce major components of the American political system and how it has developed over time.
• Explore shared and specific aspects of the U.S. political system compared to other political systems worldwide.
• Develop powers of analysis and critical thinking applied to American politics.
• Understand the role of informed public engagement in democracy and rational discussion in public affairs decision-making.
• Explore foundational documents and structures of American government and perspectives people have regarding political decisions.
• Expand knowledge of government structure, political ideologies, and their interrelationship.
• Enhance critical reading and writing skills.
• Critically analyze claims, arguments, artifacts, or information through paper and discussion assignments.
• Construct coherent, evidence-based arguments through paper assignments and essay questions on tests.

Course Grading Information:

Activity/Performance Measure	Percentage/Points
Discussion Forums (6 at 10 points each)	60 points
Reading Quizzes (3 at 10 points each)	30 points
Research Paper Writing Assignment	100 points
Tests (3 at 100 points each)	300 points
Participation and Attendance	100 points

I use a point system as research has indicated that is the fairest method of determining course competency. The total number of points which you can earn is 615. Divide the number of points you have by 615 to determine where you are on a letter scale.

Grading Scale

Percentage	Letter Grade
100-92%	A
90-91.99%	A-
88-89.99%	B+
82-87.99%	B
80-81.99%	B-
78-79.99%	C+
72-77.99%	C
70-71.99%	C-
68-69.99%	D+
62-67.99%	D
60-61.99%	D-
Below 60%	F

Attendance/Participation:

Participation and attendance are essential and graded components of this course, with a total of 100 points allocated. Attendance is taken each class, and active engagement is expected. Late work will be penalized one letter grade for each 24 hours late, with half a letter grade deducted if turned in late on the due date. Excuses require written verification and are evaluated case-by-case. Students must notify the instructor before missing exams to be eligible for make-up exams, with no more than one make-up allowed except under extraordinary circumstances.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

GOVT, 11th edition, Edward Sidlow and Beth Henschen. ISBN: 9780357459799. Available through the UNCG bookstore and elsewhere.