NSL-A
Course Overview
National, State, and Local Government A fulfills the Maryland
graduation requirement for government and will prepare students
for the High School Assessment in Government. There are four units
included in NSL-A. Over the course of this semester the students
will develop and enhance the skills necessary to independently
acquire, interpret, evaluate, and communicate ideas.
Unit One:
Political Principles and Structures of Systems (Approximately
15 days)
In Unit One students are reintroduced to the purpose, forms and
types of government. The origins of principles of government found
in the US system are explored. An examination of our federal system
provides an overview of the structure and functions of each branch
of government.
Unit Two:
Participation and the Electoral Process (Approximately
15 days)
The ways in which citizens may participate in the American political
process is highlighted in Unit Two. The role of political parties,
the election process, and the influence of media, public opinion,
interest groups and citizens on politics and elections are examined.
Students analyze patterns that prevent full participation in the
voting process in our democratic society.
Unit Three:
Functions and Powers - Legislative, Executive, and Judicial (Approx.
20-25 days)
In Unit Three students analyze the legislative, executive, and
judicial branches and their respective powers, structure, and
checks and balances for each level of government. Included in
this unit is a case study of how governments at each level apply
their respective powers to solve complex problems such as national
security. The sessions allow students to see how federalism is
applied at the local, state, and national level in order to respond
to citizens’ needs for safety, order, and rights.
Unit Four:
Attaining Justice and Protecting Rights (Approximately
20-25 days)
Legislation, amendments, and court decisions are analyzed to determine
the constitutional rights of citizens in our democratic society.
Students explore the elements of criminal and civil law, students’
rights, the conflict of rights, and the meaning of citizenship
and citizens’ responsibilities, as they apply to today’s
world.
Assessment
Quarter grades will reflect student achievement on a variety of
assessments. The categories below will be used to determine the
quarter grade.
• Assignments for Practice
– 10%
• All assessments, such
as tests, quizzes, projects, and other assignments – 90%
Reteaching
and Reassessing Policy
Students who would like a reassessment opportunity must
• Attend TAP or meet
with his/her teacher to complete a reteaching activity
• Attend TAP or meet
with his/her teacher to complete a reassessment
Please see the
B-CC website for school-wide policies regarding grading, homework,
reteaching, reassessing, and academic dishonesty.
Extra Help
I will be available during lunch and after school (by appointment)
to assist any students seeking extra help.
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