Course Learning Resources:
Course Description
This course surveys the development and operation of the
American political system. Key topics include the
structure of the US federal government, development and
application of the US Constitution Federalism; political
parties, interest groups and the federal bureaucracy. Course Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this course, students will:
1. Better understand the background and operation of the
US federal government;
2. Understand the nature of a constitutional form of
government, and the effect a constitution has the daily
life of citizens;
3. Be familiar with the content and interpretations of
the US Constitution;
4. Be familiar with the election process;
5. Understand how laws are proposed, debated, enacted,
enforced, and interpreted;
6. Understand the historical basis and contemporary
context for Federalism;
7. Better understand the interdependence of local,
state, and federal governmental actions on individual
public and private activities.
Course Policies
This is a 90 day independent study course, and is designed to be primarily self-paced. Its requirements include assignments and tests that you will complete and submit via the
Internet. Email and Internet contact are available to answer questions, engage in discussion and provide assistance as needed. Your assignments should be submitted as file attachments in either Microsoft Word or
HTML format. Each assignment will be evaluated, graded, and returned with feedback. Values for each assignment and test are provided in a table below. Timing
Please be sure to time your assignments so
that you have adequate time to complete the work in 90 days. Course tests are sent to you after you complete specific assignments (please see Test page), so be sure to give yourself enough space to pace the work
comfortably. Communication
As an independent study course, this is a more self-paced exercise than a scheduled class might be. However, discussion is still important. Please feel free to use the email
address provided for questions, comments, and concerns about the course. Your email will be forwarded to and answered by a member of Ames Christian University's faculty.
Evaluation Material Assignments and Tests
There are 7 total assignments, including a final paper.
There are three total tests, including a final exam. The tests are sent to you after you have submitted sequential assignments, as outlined on the Test page. Grade Components
Grading Scale |
