- Topic 1 American Government and Civic Engagement -

Hey Folks! This week we begin our semester of studying government. We will talk about what government is, who governs, and the importance for us to engage in our democracy.   

Here’s what you need to know:

Classes: Monday/Wednesday, 9:45 – 10:30 AM

Zoom ID: 723 9635 0716

*as always, please see Teams for the password.

Weekly Objectives

Topic 1.1 What is Government?

• Explain what government is and what it does.
• Identify the type of government in the United States and compare it to other forms of government.

Topic 1.2 Who Governs? Elitism, Pluralism, and Tradeoffs

• Describe the pluralism-elitism debate.
• Explain the tradeoffs perspective on government.

 Topic 1.3 Engagement in a Democracy

• Explain the importance of citizen engagement in a democracy.
• Describe the main ways Americans can influence and become engaged in government.
• Discuss factors that may affect people’s willingness to become engaged in government.

Assignment Due 1/13

1. Virtues/Reasonability’s of a Good Citizen Essay

Assignments Due 1/18

1. Topic 1.1 What is Government?
2. Topic 1.2 Who Governs? Elitism, Pluralism, and Tradeoffs
3. Topic 1.3 Engagement in a Democracy