Course Syllabus

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AMERICAN POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT

HONORS 

 

Dr. Cacace

Wellesley High School

Room 410

Email: cacaces@wellesleyps.org

 

COURSE OVERVIEW

This course explores the political theory and everyday practice of the American political system. The purpose of this course is to help students gain and display an understanding of American politics and the processes of government that help shape our public policies. Throughout the course, we will examine our institutions of government, the people who run those institutions, the public policies made by those institutions, and the influences of the electorate and other groups on policy. By the end of the course, students will be able to understand and evaluate competing arguments, and formulate and express opinions on the debates that are currently shaping American politics and society.

UNITS OF STUDY 

This course will be organized into four units of study:  

  • Unit 1: Foundations of American Democracy 
  • Unit 2: The Political Institutions of the United States
  • Unit 3: Political Involvement and Influence
  • Unit 4: Policy Making 

CLASS GOALS 

  • Learn about and understand the American political system, its framework, traditions and values 
  • Understand the impact of the American political system on our lives
  • Develop our own political perspectives and opinions rooted in facts
  • Understand and respect the political perspectives and opinions of others
  • Engage with each other as we build a community of shared learning 

GRADING POLICY

  • You will complete a range of assignment types through the course 
  • Grading will be based on a total point system 
  • Final quarter grades will be on a 0-100 (A-F) scale
  • Each quarter is worth 50% of your final semester grade
  • There is no final exam
  • Please note: 
    • District accommodations (DCAP) are available to all students, and in the 26-27 school year, WHS is committed to moving this forward with fidelity. While some accommodations can be offered in the moment, others require advanced notice.
      • For example: Extended time on an in-class assessment is a collaborative decision made by the teacher, student, and family to meet individual student needs. The WHS guideline is up to 25% extra time. This accommodation relies on proactive student communication prior to the date of the assessment. The student and teacher must establish how the accommodation will be provided. 

TECHNOLOGY POLICY

  • This is a technology free classroom unless otherwise stated
  • No laptops, phones, or ear buds will be allowed at any time
  • All readings and notes must be paper copies 

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY 

  • Don’t cheat.  Ever.  For any reason.
  • It is my expectation that all work that you submit (tests, papers, and discussion comments) reflects your own ideas and is your own product.  
  • If you are found to be cheating or acting without academic integrity, appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.  

CANVAS 

  • Our Canvas page will be essential to our course this year
  • On Canvas you will find topic schedules, archived copies of class lectures, handouts and readings, and assignments

SUGGESTED SUPPLIES

  • Notebook (in class color)
  • Folder (in class color)
  • Highlighter
  • Pen
  • Pencil 

AVAILABILITY OUTSIDE OF CLASS

  • I am more than happy to connect with you for extra help or enrichment!
  • Think of me like your coach! I want to help you develop the strategies and skills to excel!
  • You can set up a time to talk or connect or just stop by during my frees! 




Course Summary:

Course Summary
Date Details Due