Course Title: AP Government and Politics

Course Description: AP Government and Politics is a college-level course that introduces students to the study of American government and politics. The course covers the foundations of American democracy, the structure and functions of government institutions, the political behavior of individuals and groups, and the policy-making process. Students will develop critical thinking skills, analyze political concepts and theories, and engage in discussions and debates on current political issues.

Course Objectives: 1. Understand the principles and foundations of American democracy. 2. Analyze the structure and functions of government institutions, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. 3. Examine the political behavior of individuals and groups, including interest groups, political parties, and the media. 4. Evaluate the policy-making process and its impact on society. 5. Develop critical thinking and analytical skills through the analysis of political concepts and theories. 6. Engage in discussions and debates on current political issues.

Course Outline:

Unit 1: Foundations of American Democracy - The Constitution and its principles - Federalism and the division of powers - Civil liberties and civil rights

Unit 2: Institutions of Government - The executive branch: the presidency and bureaucracy - The legislative branch: Congress and the lawmaking process - The judicial branch: the Supreme Court and the interpretation of the Constitution

Unit 3: Political Behavior - Interest groups and their influence on policy-making - Political parties and the electoral process - The role of the media in shaping public opinion

Unit 4: Public Policy - The policy-making process and its stages - Domestic policy issues: healthcare, education, and the economy - Foreign policy and international relations

Unit 5: Political Analysis and Current Issues - Political ideologies and their impact on policy-making - Analyzing political campaigns and elections - Debating current political issues

Assessment Methods: - Quizzes and tests on readings and concepts - Essays and research papers on political topics - Class discussions and debates - Group projects and presentations - AP-style multiple-choice and free-response questions

Textbook: - “American Government: Institutions and Policies” by Wilson, DiIulio, and Bose

Note: This syllabus is a general outline and may be subject to change based on the instructor’s discretion and the needs of the students.