American Government & Economics Mrs. McDougall

Hello and Welcome to American Government and Economics. These two classes are worth 10 credits (5 credits each) and are required for graduation. The class will be fast-paced, informative, and fun.

American Government: The California standards based material we will cover in this class will provide a basic understanding of the principles and organization of American government. Topics covered are: The Foundations of Government The Constitution, Amendments & Federalism Political Parties & Electoral Process The Legislative Branch Executive Branch Judicial Branch Civil Liberties

Class Assignments: For this course you will be expected to: Participate in class activities. Complete homework assignments. Take Tests & Quizzes Binder checks Write two essays Final exam

So, what is a binder check? Please keep all the work for this class in a three ring binder. There should be two tabs labeled: Active Work- Please file papers in this section chronologically. Returned Work - Keep all graded assignments in this section so that if there is a problem you can show me and I can correct it.

Class work and some home work assignments will be stamped and kept in the binder. Binders will be checked and graded four times during the semester.

Assignments continued Participate and make a speech at a Political Convention. Group projects and presentations Write a position paper about the 2012 presidential election. Write an essay analyzing a Supreme Court Case.

Student Expectations: Come to class everyday on time! Bring your textbook everyday! (there is no class set)

Complete all assignments and turn them in on time. Late assignments will receive reduced points. And are only accepted one week after the due date.

Student Responsibility Each student is required to have an Infinite Campus account. Before coming to talk to me about your grade, check your IC see what assignments are missing.

Absences 1.If you are sick and miss class it is your responsibility to inquire about make up work. 2.Check the calendar and the hanging file folder folder for handouts that were missed. 3.You have the same number of days you were absent to turn in the work for it to be considered on time.

If you are absent, you are only allowed to turn in work if the absence shows as excused on Infinite Campus. No texting during class or calling during class. See school policy! Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated and the school policy will be implemented.

Bathroom Pass Policy Everyone is given four trips out of class per quarter. Please ask first. You must have me sign your card before you leave the classroom. For every unused trip, you will be awarded two points extra credit at the end of the quarter. You must take the hall pass when you leave the classroom.

Grades will be based on the following : Class work /Homework =40% Essays/Tests/Final = 60%

Make-up Tests If you are absent and miss a test you have two days to make it up or you get a zero.

Contact Information I look forward to working with you this semester. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call, or come in to see me (leave a message in the office)