AP Government/ Honors Economics
Teacher
Randy Cambou (
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)
Course Description
An in-depth examination of our Government through simulations, readings, debates and discussions. Covering topics from the creation of our Constitution to the modern applications of our Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, this course will prepare students for the Advanced Placement exam in United States Government and Politics. Spring Semester will add Economic principles related to our Government into our studies as we make the final preparations for the AP Exam in May.
Instructional Goals
Students will gain a deeper appreciation and understanding of our government. Our focus will be on the following core topics:
1. Constitution/ Federalism
2. Public Opinion and Elections
3. Linking mechanisms between the people and the Government
4. Institutions of Government
5. Public Policy
6. Civil Rights and Civil Liberties
Students will also work toward a deeper understanding of current events and their relationship to our course curriculum.
Prerequisites
Students need to have successfully completed US History (Advanced Placement or College Prep) prior to taking AP Government.
Level and Type of Work
A typical week in AP Government:
Monday: AP Practice Skills (Multiple Choice and Free Response Writing)
Tuesday-Thursday: Class discussions based upon previous night's reading
Friday: Assessment/Activities
Reading homework is usually given Monday-Wednesday with 5-7 reading pages per night as an average. Larger projects (group and individual) are typically assigned for each unit as well.
Exams follow the AP test format (Multiple Choice and Free Response Writing)
What will a student HAVE to do to be successful in this AP level class?
In defining success, I look to former UCLA basketball coach John Wooden:
"Success is the peace of mind that is the direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of becoming."
With that in mind, you can work toward that type of success by:
1. Coming to class prepared with readings and notes completed
2. Participating in class discussions
3. Reviewing reading and lecture notes on a daily basis
4. Following current events in the news
5. Asking questions
Why should students take this AP course?
Students should look to take AP Government to gain a deeper understanding of the government and how you can become a more active participant in current events. Also, our class will focus on the media and will help students become more active consumers of information.
Course Web Site
https://sites.google.com/site/whhscambou/
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