This course PLS 135 , American National Government , teaches students about introductory concepts in American national government and politics. It covers democracy, the Constitution, federalism, public opinion, media, political parties, campaigns, elections, interest groups, the three branches of government, civil liberties and civil rights.

If you do well in this course, you will be able to:

• be aware of the philosophical base of the U. S. system, the changing composition of our society, and the issues raised by change.

• be aware of general provisions of the Constitution and how it has adapted to changing times.
• understand the concept of federalism and how the distribution of power between the national government and the states has created conflict from time to time.
• be aware of the influence of public opinion and how individual participation can influence our political system.

The required textbook for this course is:

• Essentials of American Government: Continuity and Change, 2008 Edition: Karen O'Connor & Larry J. Sabato. (When you buy your book, check that it has the word "Essentials" in the Title. Learning Activities will be based on this edition.

Call before going to a campus bookstore to make sure the materials are in stock. If you don't see what you need, ask for assistance. Each bookstore has a separate section for ELI courses. Print this page and take it with you to avoid confusion.

Your course grade will be determined by the assignments, and exams, according to the following points:

There are 3 exams in this course. You are expected to take your examinations at one of the NVCC campus Testing Centers. Be sure to allow enough time to complete your exam before the Testing Center closes; Testing Centers have specific policies relating to the administration of ELI exams. You will need to take a photo ID, your NovaConnect empl ID number, and the appropriate Exam Pass when you go to the Testing Center.  

For Testing Center locations, hours of operation and policies, click here.

For information on taking exams outside of the metropolitan area, click here.

I am here to help you succeed in this course. Occasionally questions or problems may arise. Here is how to contact me when they do:

E-mail : pmitchell@nvcc.edu

1. Use your web browser to connect to http://www.nvcc.edu/bbstart. Follow the directions to determine your email, Blackboard and VIVA account user names and passwords.
2. Access your email account and make sure you know how to use it; you will be required to use this account for all course-related email.
3. Log on to Blackboard at http://learn.vccs.edu.
4. Click on this course under "My Courses." Review the entire course to make sure you understand what will be required of you. Then start completing the assignments.

Please note that account generation takes approximately one week from the time of your paid registration. If you cannot log on after one week, contact the IT Help Desk. If you can log on to Blackboard, but your course isn't listed, please contact ELI or your instructor.