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PLS 211: U.S. Government I (3 Credits)
Overview

This course teaches an in depth understanding of the American political system. You will explore current events and issues that shape policies, along with the institutions and power centers that mold the scope of government and determine who governs and to what ends. The course is an introduction to the American political theory and the complex workings of the three branches of government. Students will enjoy a contemporary look at how our American political system and government works.

Entry Level Competencies: Students should have an expressed interest in political science and have the ability to use the English language correctly and effectively as demonstrated on appropriate English proficiency examination.

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Objectives
 

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

  1. Define the concept of democracy, direct and representative democracy, and to understand the understand the philosophical concept of U. S. democracy
  2. Describe the origin and history of the U. S. Constitution and how the Constitution has adapted to our changing society
  3. Define the concept of Federalism and how the distribution of power between the national and state governments affords possibilities for conflict or cooperation
  4. Develop possibilities of individual and group participation and why such participation is vital to a free political system
  5. Understand how public officials, the media, interest groups and political parties compete for setting the political or public agenda
  6. Understand the principles of elections, campaigns, voting motivation and PACs
  7. Understand the application of individual rights and the central role of the Supreme Court in its interpretation of these rights
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Materials
 

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Grading
 

Possible Assignments Include: (Subject to change each semester. The actual assignments are available in the Syllabus in the Blackboard course site on the first day of classes.)

Assignment
Points
Percentage of Grade
14 Discussion Forums @ 5 pts.
70
7
9 One-page Response Assignments @ 30 pts
270
27
4 Special Assignments @ 50 pts.
200
20
2 Now Showing Assignments @ 30
60
6
2 Exams @ 200 pts.
400
40

Your final grade may be based on the following scale. Please note that you must also pass at least several exams in order to pass the course, regardless of your scores on the other assignments.

Grading Scale
A
900-1000
B
800-899
C
700-799
D
600-699
F
0-599
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Exams
 

There are 2 exams in this course.

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ELI Policies and Procedures
 
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Beginning the Course
 

Last Updated: August 17, 2013