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 understand its development over time.
• Explore shared and specific aspects of the U.S. political system compared to others worldwide.
• Develop powers of analysis and critical thinking applied to American politics.
• Understand the role of informed public discussion in democracy and explore theoretical and practical questions in American government.
• Expand knowledge of government structure, political ideologies, and their interrelationships.
• 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 are graded with a total of 100 points, taken each class.

Late work will be penalized one letter grade for each 24 hours late. Assignments turned in late on the day they are due will be docked half a letter grade. Extensions are granted only in extraordinary circumstances with written verification.

If you cannot take an exam at the scheduled time due to health or personal problems, you must notify the instructor before the exam to be eligible for a make-up exam. No more than one make-up exam is allowed except under extraordinary circumstances.

Respectful behavior and punctuality are expected in class. Cell phones must be turned off, no side conversations, and respect for classmates' opinions is required.

Course Materials Purchased by the Students:

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