American National Government
Course Information
Meeting Time: MWF 10:00-10:50 AM
Location: HSS 1001
Credits: 3 hours
Prerequisites: None
Instructor: Dr. Cameron Wimpy
Office: HSS 3007
Phone: (870) xxx-xxxx
Email: cwimpy@astate.edu
Office Hours: MW 2:00-4:00 PM, or by appointment
Course Description
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to American national government, examining the Constitution, institutions, processes, and policies that shape American democracy. Students will develop critical thinking skills about contemporary political issues and gain practical knowledge of how government affects their daily lives.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Analyze the structure and function of American political institutions
- Evaluate the role of federalism in the American system
- Assess the impact of civil liberties and civil rights on American democracy
- Examine the role of political parties, interest groups, and media in politics
- Apply theoretical concepts to contemporary political issues
Required Materials
Textbook
- Abernathy, Scott F. American Government: Stories of a Nation. 2nd Edition. CQ Press.
- ISBN: 978-1506379616
- Available at campus bookstore and online
Additional Materials
- Course packet (available at bookstore)
- Access to Blackboard for assignments and announcements
- Reliable internet connection for online components
Assessment & Grading
| Component | Weight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Exams (3) | 60% | Multiple choice and short answer |
| Research Paper | 20% | 5-7 page analytical paper |
| Participation & Quizzes | 20% | Class engagement and pop quizzes |
Grading Scale
- A: 90-100%
- B: 80-89%
- C: 70-79%
- D: 60-69%
- F: Below 60%
Course Schedule
Unit 1: Constitutional Foundations (Weeks 1-5)
- The Constitution and Bill of Rights
- Federalism and intergovernmental relations
- Civil liberties and civil rights
Unit 2: Political Institutions (Weeks 6-10)
- Congress: structure, powers, and processes
- The Presidency: roles and responsibilities
- The Federal Judiciary: structure and judicial review
Unit 3: Political Processes (Weeks 11-15)
- Political parties and interest groups
- Elections and voting behavior
- Public opinion and political participation
- Public policy and implementation
Major Assignments
Research Paper
Due: October 30, 2024
Length: 5-7 pages, double-spaced
Topic: Contemporary policy issue analysis
Requirements: Minimum 5 scholarly sources, proper citation format
Exams
- Exam 1: September 25 (Constitutional Foundations)
- Exam 2: November 15 (Political Institutions)
- Final Exam: December 12, 8:00 AM (Comprehensive)
Course Policies
Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for success. More than 3 unexcused absences may result in a lowered final grade. Notify me in advance of anticipated absences when possible.
Late Work
Late assignments will be penalized 5% per day unless prior arrangements are made. No make-up exams without documented excuse.
Academic Integrity
All work must be your own. Plagiarism, cheating, or any form of academic dishonesty will result in failure of the assignment and may lead to failure of the course. When in doubt, cite your sources.
Accommodations
Students with documented disabilities should contact Student Accessibility Services and provide me with appropriate documentation as soon as possible. All discussions will remain confidential.
Technology Policy
Laptops and tablets are permitted for note-taking. Cell phones should be silenced and put away during class. Inappropriate use of technology will result in loss of participation points.
Resources for Success
- Writing Center: Free tutoring available in HSS 2010
- Library Research Help: Subject librarians available for research assistance
- Study Groups: Encouraged! Contact me if you need help forming groups
- Office Hours: Take advantage of these - I’m here to help you succeed
Important Dates
- Add/Drop Deadline: August 30
- Withdrawal Deadline: November 1
- Thanksgiving Break: November 25-29 (no classes)
- Final Exams: December 9-13
This syllabus is subject to change with advance notice. Any changes will be announced in class and posted on Blackboard.