1. American Government Mrs. Kubacki Mrs. Dignan
Great Expectations
American Government
Mrs. Kubacki
Mrs. Dignan

2. I. Course Description: Teach you to be a good Citizen.
You will learn about the structure and functions of
local,
state,
and national government.
to develop a better understanding of the American political system.
The U.S. and Illinois Constitution Test, is taken during this course.
Length of Course: One semester
Credit: .5 credit per semester

3. III. Course Materials
Text: Magruder’s American Government (Prentice Hall)
Materials
Writing Utensil
American Government Folder
Spiral notebook and loose-leaf paper
Bell ringer Sheet (provided every 2 weeks by teacher.

4. Some other stuff Bell ringers- Readings
At the beginning of class you will be given a question.
+5 points a day
Readings
At the start of each section you will be given a reading.
Analyze readings and answer questions
You may use your readings and notes for the chapter quiz.
The Quiz is an assessment and is recorded at 90%
It all Adds up……..

5. CLASSROOM HANDOUTS Daily handouts are on table by door
Pick up handouts as you enter
Extra Bell ringers and Readings are also there

6. Attendance
Your presence in class is very important absences should be kept to the minimum.

7. …If you are absent All assignments and notes will be posted on Edline.

8. V. Assessment policies:
Evaluation: Grades will be computed on the following: tests, quizzes, daily work and Projects as assigned
Grades will be computed by a weighted point system:
90% Tests & Quizzes
10% Homework/Assignments/Projects
25% Final Exam
Grading Scale: Revised in 8/2012

9. Grading Scale LETTER GRADE * PERCENTAGE POINTS A 100-93 % B+ 89.9-87
F and below

10. VII. Retakes
Retakes are designed for you if you are performing below a 70%.
If you score below 70% on your first retry, you will be eligible to take the test one more time.
To Qualify
you must complete required work
And complete an Additional Project to Show Mastery.
The grade earned on the retake will be the final grade for all retakes for the assessment.
Retakes must be taken within 2 weeks of the initial test.

11. Unit 1 – Documents of Freedom
Essential Question: Why are written documents necessary to insure personal freedoms?
Chapter
Topic
Assessment 1
Principles of Government
Chapter 1 Test 3
US Constitution
Amendment Test
24/25
Illinois Constitution/Flag
Illinois Constitution Flag Test
Unit 2 – Government in Action
Essential Question: How do Political Beliefs Influence Actions? 4
Federalism
13 and 14
The Presidency
10,11,12
Congress 18
The Federal Court System
Unit 2 Test
Unit 3 – The Political Experience
Essential Question: How do Political Beliefs Influence Actions? 6
Voters and Voter’s Behavior 5
Political Parties 7
The Electoral Process
Unit 3 Test

12. Constitution Test Students will be taking the U.S. Constitution Test
US Amendments Test
Illinois Constitution Test

13. Popsicle Stix
Write name on Stick
Used to call on in class.

14. Eating/Drinking in Classroom
No Eating
IF you do not have a lunch period
Sack Lunches are ok
Drinks OK, if they have a lid
CLEAN UP AFTER YOURSELF
MESS CAN ELIMINATE ABILITY TO EAT IN CLASS

15. Behavior Violation Form
The form used will be 2-ply; one copy for the student, one copy given to the dean’s office.
BEHAVIOR VIOLATION
Name:_____________________ Date:________ Period:_____
ID #:______________________
Tardy (time)___________ ID
Electronic Device Dress Code
Disruption Inappropriate Hallway Behavior
Language Inappropriate Location
Teacher (print):_________________________

16. Rules Be Respectful Be Trustful Be Responsible
Brainstorm – What does this look like?
How does Technology impact this?
How does Tardy impact this.
Make Class Poster

17. FIRST ASSIGNMENT
Write down 3 ways that the government affects your life
Turn to the person next to you and compare lists. Add items you didn’t have
Go to a third person and compare lists. Add additional items.
Once you have 10 different items – return to your desk.
Highlight the most important way government affects you and write a paragraph (at least 5 sentences of why)