Political Science 1100: American National Government Fall 2014, Section 151 and V sections, Room # EE 111 Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 - 8:50 am Professor Rick Fish E-Mail:
[email protected] (subject bar should read: POLS 1100: then any comment) I DO NOT RESPOND TO CANVAS E-MAIL: Students MUST use:
[email protected] Distance Education (801) 863-8764, Dept. Office: LA 030, Dept. Phone: (801) 863-8487 COURSE OBJECTIVES: This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to study the history and structure of America’s national government, rights and responsibilities of citizens, political institutions, political processes, and governmental policies. Students will also be exploring the social, and economic background of America’s government. This course is also designed to help students become better informed, critically minded, and more aware of how our past contributes to our present and our future. This course fulfills all requirements for the American Institutions’ General Education credit mandated by the Utah State Legislature. This course should help you develop some or all of the following skills and abilities: 1) to critically evaluate information you see, hear, and read based on their veracity (active learning) 2) to apply methods from other areas of study in interpreting data on specific issues we discuss 3) to collaborate in study groups (collaborative learning) and among diverse individuals 4) to communicate clearly and logically both quantitatively (writing etc) and orally (discussion) 5) to demonstrate competency in identifying and comparing various types of political models, and political theories 6) to help students appreciate civic knowledge and understand its important for civil engagement and lifelong learning TEXT: The only textbook you need to purchase for this class is Linda R. Monk, The Words We Live By: Your Annotated Guide to the Constitution, (ISBN 0-78686720-5). In addition, there will be approximately twenty additional readings located on Canvas under the Files tab. I recommend you open, download, or print these readings because Canvas periodically goes off-line making the readings impossible to access. These readings are required reading and take the place of any additional textbooks. If you come upon a term or event you do not know or understand, then LOOK IT UP -- students need to understand what they are reading. If you look it up and still don’t understand, then I suggest you ask me during class. You are responsible for having the assigned readings completed prior to our class discussion for each day (see calendar at the bottom of this syllabus). The additional readings are purely text, so you may want to access additional pictures or maps on-line to provide visuals. There are also many on-line sites you may want to locate to provide a host of primary documents, journals and video clips to expand your understanding of concepts in the readings. This type of information can be extremely useful if you have questions about the readings. The due dates for each reading assignment are listed on the last page of this syllabus. The reading assignments are listed on their due dates, so you need to come to class each class period with the reading assignment read BEFORE class. I also highly recommend that you review your assigned reading(s) prior to class in preparation for a possible quiz on each day’s reading assignment. The quizzes are taken before we discuss the information in class. In addition, the quiz questions come solely from your readings, and if you desire to do well in this course, and especially on the quizzes, then you MUST READ AND STUDY each reading assignment, and comprehend the major ideas, concepts, and the most significant people in the readings (see the list of major concepts and significant people in the headings to each reading assignment). LECTURES: This is primarily a lecture course. However, I encourage comments and questions. The lectures are designed to supplement your readings and to add to your understanding. We will also watch several video clips and incorporate some power points for a visual learning experience. I realize that my students are not a single homogeneous interest group, but a very diverse group of individuals. It is my goal to create a safe and respectful learning environment where all students feel comfortable to participate. Consequently, I desire all students to feely ask questions and make comments during this course. As an instructor, I thrive on discourse and debate, and enjoy the free exchange of ideas and points of view. EXAMS: There will be a midterm and a final exam in this course. Test questions come primarily from the readings. Both exams have approximately 100 questions (including extra-credit questions). Test questions are all matching, and multiple-choice. The questions are based essentially on famous people, documents like the Constitution, and important events that we have discussed in class. There are no questions that rely on dates. You are required to bring a number 2 pencil to use on the exams. I will provide the scantron sheets. I will also provide a very basic review sheet (a list of people, events and terms) one-week prior to the exam. By the way, the Final exam is NOT comprehensive. org http://www.org http://www.html http://www.realclearpolitics.gpoaccess.com/library/madison/index.com http://www.moveon.gov http://www. and the best way to earn an A grade in this course. Of course students can study independently or with any person they desire. These papers must both be submitted on Canvas before the final exam.vote-smart.virtualjamestown. Study groups should be no less than three students.gov http://www.theblaze. 4) your name at the top right hand corner.html http://www.org http://www.org http://www.law. Students need to choose any two of the websites provided below and study the information provided on the website.org/page2. I strongly suggest that students explore many if not all of the websites below to find the two sites that most appeal to them.rnc.html http://www. and over the years I have found that forcing my students to compete with each other is not the most conducive way to assist you in learning in information presented in this course.com http://www. The questions come from your assigned reading for the day.motherjones. Students must submit documentation for all make-up quizzes.COLLABORATIVE LEARNING: Students should know that I do NOT grade on a curve.whitehouse.org http://www.org http://spectator.com http://www. These quizzes will begin after the 15 required quizzes are completed.org/schaffer/library/studies/wick/index. 2) an in-depth discussion about “specific” types of information available on the site [2-4 paragraphs]. Skype or other methods to communicate rather than always meeting physically (before school. I do not allow you to make up any of these quizzes for any reason except for documented school excused absences such as a “school required” absence or National Guard duty.publicagenda.org http://www. Based on individual needs. Consequently.gov http://www.pollingreport. 3) one inch margins on all four sides. Your paper will consist of 1) an explanation of what the website is about [1-2 paragraphs].html http://www. I dislike curves mostly because they force you to compete with each other.gov http://www. Consequently. 2) 12 pt. The quiz questions will be mostly fill-in-the-blank and multiple-choice. Students who participate in study groups and use flash cards tend to score MUCH better on the quizzes and the exams.edu/lawweb/avalon/artconf.html http://www.cornell. There will be NO late papers excepted.democrats. then you will all receive an A. and who attend class. and no more than six.yale.org http://www.senate. PAPER ASSIGNMENT: PAPER ASSIGNMENT: There will be two required 2-full page papers this semester.treasurydirect.org http://www.html http://www.org http://www.com http://www.edu/col/seneca/senfalls1.cia. No cover sheets or triple spacing. some study groups may want to employ Facebook. then contact me and we will create some study groups pooling students from various high schools together.statescape.htm https://www. There are a few liberal and a few conservative websites on this list. to form study groups (collaborative learning).opensecrets.si.politics1.gov . These are closed book. Sickness doesn’t count unless you miss five or more consecutive days of school (not just our class). closed neighbor and no cell phone quizzes. not all of the websites are strictly government websites. Twitter. Perhaps facilitators can assist students in this process.congress.overview. Consequently. EXTRA-CREDIT QUIZZES: I will also administer three extra-credit quizzes. These quizzes are designed to benefit those who read and grasp the day’s reading.gallup.loc.org/academic/americanpresident http://www. if I only quizzed you on items we discuss many students would not even peruse the readings. The constraints of teaching a Live Interactive class means students will need to take the initiative to create their own study groups.usa.millercenter.gov http://www.).gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/index.org/cs_feder. We do not have sufficient time to discuss many important people and events. QUIZZES: There will be fifteen quizzes given during the semester. after school. For your information. If this situation arises. I highly recommend students to work together. I do not believe learning and education should be competitive.druglibrary.constitutioncenter.com http://mediamatters.com http://www. Quizzes are administered prior to our class discussion of the material. study hall etc. font (Times New Roman). These mandatory paper assignments are worth 25 points each or a total of 50 points.constitution.html http://www.com http://www.gov http://www. The principle reason for quizzing you on the material prior to our discussion is so you will put every effort into reading and understanding the reading assignment prior to our class discussion. but I believe that active participation in collaborative learning is the way of the future.org/convention/debates/0630.drudgereport. Some classrooms in this environment may not have three students.npg. Each study group needs to select a student to coordinate when and where the group will meet. and to help each other learn. but wait to hear my lectures and then simply regurgitate what they just heard. and 3) the remainder of the TWO-FULL page paper should contain information you personally learned from studying the information from the website [approximately a full page].htm http://www.gov/govt/govt.com http://www. The following government sites are approved for these papers: http://www. This makes a total of 150 possible quiz points (15 X 10 = 150). These quizzes are essentially the same as the other quizzes: one point for each correct answer.htm http://www.edu/constitution/constitution. Paper requirements include 1) double-spacing.uscourts.org http://www.org http://www.thisnation. closed notes. If you all earn an A. Each quiz will have ten questions worth one point for each correct answer.supremecourtus.cato. I do not consider this a highly effective way for teaching any college subject.oyez.house.htm http://teachingamericanhistory.gov/exhibits/religion/rel03. I truly want you to learn and be educated concerning our government so help me by helping yourself: stay caught up with your reading. add up all the points you have earned thus far in the class (quizzes and extra-credit). Once again. be prepared for quizzes.” Accessibility Services Department Faculty Handbook p.925 X 100 to get 92. You have taken a college course to learn about America’s national government and I want to assist you. Accommodations are coordinated with the student and instructor in consultation with the Accessibility Services Department (room BU 145). This includes things like answering quiz questions for another student. then I STRONGLY suggest that you get notes from another student. If you ever miss class. or where the facilitator can easily monitor your computer use. In addition. and sometimes even fellow classmates can be a little intimidating. e-mail. Twitter) ends your use of this device in this class for the rest of the semester. IF I CATCH YOU HOLDING YOUR PHONE DURING CLASS I WILL DEDUCT 10 POINTS FROM YOUR GRADE (each time). You should also know I fail students caught cheating. In addition. I encourage you to form study groups. take good notes. Consequently. I will also award 25 extra-credit points to any student who can prove. divide the total points in the class you have earned (including extra-credit) by the total points possible (not including extracredit). Consequently. ATTENTION STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES: “If you have any disability which may impair your ability to successfully complete this course. For example if you had earned a total of 185 points. Attendance counts 50 points toward your grade. or start class discussions.5% equals an -A. if you have a question. Next. if you know you will be missing a certain class period. TAPING LECTURES: I have no problem with you taping our discussions. and especially ask questions when you are confused or do not understand something. but I can’t force you to read and remember what you have read. I encourage you to attend class and take good notes. Attendance is worth two points for each time you arrive on time to class and do not leave early. some of you will have to work harder than others. I will also do my best to provide clear examples and explanations to your questions and comments. I hope you realize that much of your learning will come outside of class while you are reading and pondering the reading assignments. and that a few of you will struggle in this course. add up all the points possible thus far in the class (do NOT add in extra-credit). you may need to bring an extension cord. review assigned readings prior to class. Repeat offenders face serious consequences. Second. So don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions. any fellow student cheating. make comments. Use of a computer (etc. please let the instructor know prior to requesting services which require action on the part of the instructor. if you want to excel in this course then you should THOROUGHLY READ AND STUDY to understand the major concepts and people mentioned in each reading assignment. and there were 200 points possible thus far in the course. books. some of you come to this class with a good background in the course material. Consequently. you need to attend class (be on time and stay the entire class period). I will NOT deduct points for students who tell me in advance (before class by e-mail or in person) that they are expecting an urgent call. In addition. then probably so do your classmates. then you must sit in the first two rows of the classroom. and ask questions when confused. If you have ideas or suggestions. notes. then I reserve the right to view your screen at any time. so if you are going to cheat.925. In addition. I am working hard at developing opportunities for students to learn outside the classroom. we meet 30 times (30 X 2 = 60). This is also true for text messaging during class. form study groups for quizzes and the exams. Cell phone use during a quiz or exam will result in a ZERO grade for that assessment. I’ve frequently had students turn in other students. Now take . Facebook. all phones must be turned off and put away before the class begins. I can’t do much about your surroundings and your classmates.FIGURING YOUR GRADE: It is easy to figure your grade anytime during the semester. I know from my own experience that new surroundings. I have very high expectations for you. please e-mail me at fishri@uvu. First. GOALS & EXPECTATIONS: I will do my best to be well organized and make the lectures informative and meaningful. professors. be careful who witnesses your disgraceful actions. games. or send me e-mails. while others have little if any knowledge in the subject. you could earn an additional 10 points of extra-credit. I promise to be respectful and professional to each of you. and to treat you fairly and honestly. I only ask you not to distribute them to your friends and family members who might take this class in the future. then you might want to ask a fellow student to tape that day’s lecture for you.edu. but experience tells me that some of you will not work as hard or as efficiently as your classmates. A second offense will result in an E grade for the course. or bring them up during our class discussions. I believe that each of you have the capacity to earn an A in this course. I believe they help each person who participates from the most prepared to the least prepared. or help me catch.) during class for anything but THIS course’s work (ie. 11. Remember. FORMULA = All points you have earned to date including extra-credit X 100 All points possible in the class to date NOT including extra-credit ATTENDANCE: Research shows unassailable correlations between class attendance and grades. If you are expecting an urgent call during class. Remember. then you would divide 185 by 200 = 0. then please turn your phone to vibrate-mode and sit where you can exit the room immediately to minimize your disruption. using neighbors. phones or computers while a quiz or test is being administered. . make comments.5%. so if you never miss class. REMEMBER: ABSOLUTELY NO CELL PHONE USE DURING A QUIZ OR EXAM. but I hope you will find me approachable and will not hesitate to ask questions. If you use a computer of any type in class to take notes. CLASSROOM DISRUPTION: I find it very disruptive and discourteous when cell phones ring during class. However. Looking below the calendar you can see that a 92. If you choose to use a computer in class. 60-63% FRIDAY Reading: Protestant Reformation cont. 154-198 First Paper is Oct. Monk. Reading: Prior Readings Cont. 22 Reading: Jamestown. Reading: Election of 1800 & right 3 Marbury vs. Reading: Rule of Law & the Fallacy Dec. or 17 (Quiz #15) 19 Monk. Reading: Election of 1800 & Nov. (2 Quizzes -. Second Treatise. . Reading: Monk. 205-232 (Amendments 21 Final Paper is Due: Submit to elimin 13-15). pp. 26 Reading: Hanoverian Kings & French and Indian War (Quiz #4) Reading: Road to Revolution Reading: The Words We Live By. Monk. pp. 17 Reading: Revolutionary War. Madison to Nov. 3 Sept. pp. Thanksgiving Holiday – No Class Nov. Background of the B of R. pp. & explain Hume’s Filters of Consent Monk. & Monk. Reading: Monk. 6 Oct.70-73% D. Reading: Road to Civil War alter. 24 Oct. Oct. 154-198 S: 1) 20 22 (Amendments 1-2) 24 (Amendments 3-10) (Quiz #12) I Oct. Reading: Washington’s Presidency reserv 27 29 Due: Submit to Canvas by 5:00 31 & Farewell Address. 121-125 (Article 7) Reading: Ratification. 3 Readings: Monk. Madison (Quiz # 13) 5 Marbury vs. pp. 12 Sept. Download Syllabus & All Readings 25 Sept. 19 Sept. 126-153 (Amendments 1-2) (Quiz #11) Reading: Monk. 62-88. or minus 10 ate for late penalty. oral 15 17 19 notific ation. Common Sense & the Declaration of Independence Fall Break – No Class RESE RVA TION Oct. pp.POINTS: Exam #1 Exam #2 or Final Exam 2 Paper Assignments (25 points each) Attendance Quizzes: (15 quizzes X 10 questions) Total points without including extra-credit. 89-103 (Article 3) & Reading: The Federal and State Court System (Quiz #9) Midterm Exam – In Class Oct. 29 Treaty of 1783. pp. p. Reading: Road to Civil War Nov. Reading: Election of 1800 & Nov. Second Treatise.80-83% C. pp. Dec. Monk. In additional to the reading. 5 A. pp. pp. 10 Reading: Monk. 29 Sept. Shays Rebellion. 249-263 (Amendments this 1 3 Monk. 10 Sept. Oct. Reading: I Have A Dream Canvas by 5:00 p. know the sidebar terms for the quizzes too. 10-61 (Preamble & Article 1) (Know the primary idea of each of the 10 sections of Article 1 – flash cards are a great idea. Background: Constitutional Convention Sept. pp. Thanksgiving Holiday – No Class portio 24 26 28 th n of Dec. You are responsible for all announced in-class changes even if you do not attend the class where any changes are announced. (Group Quiz #1) Reading: England’s Political And Religious History 16th – 18th Century Sept. 8 Oct. 1 Oct. or minus 10 for late penalty. 8 Sept. 104-120 (Articles 4-6) (Quiz #10) Oct. pp. Monk. . Thanksgiving Holiday – No Class Nov. 10-61 (Preamble & Article 1) Oct. Reading: War of 1812 (Quiz #14) Nov.90-94% B. 15 GRADES: = 100 points = 100 points = 50 points = 50 points = 150 points 450 points B+ 87-89% C+ 77-79% D+ 67-69% E > 60% WEDNESDAY Reading: Protestant Reformation No Quiz Reading: England’s Political And Religious History 16th – 18th Century (Group Quiz #2) Reading: Jamestown. 199-204 (Amendments 11-12) e the Nov. Reading: War of 1812 (Quiz #14) Nov. 27 Sept. Reading: The Second Founding & Nov. In other words. pp. MONDAY Aug. Plymouth & Boston Reading: Road to Revolution (Quiz #5) Reading: Revolutionary War. Reading: Major Supreme Court us by 8 22-27) (Quiz #17 [2nd Extra-Credit 10 Cases (Quiz #18 [3rd Extra-Credit 12 Cases writte quiz]) quiz]) n or Dec. Final Exam in class at 7:00 – 8:50 Dec. Common Sense & the Declaration of Independence A 95%+ B 84-86% C 74-76% D 64-67% Aug. 13 Reading: Electoral College & Monk. Reading: Major Supreme Court Dec. Reading: Articles of Confederation. 10 12 14 amend Nov. pp. pp. Second Treatise. pp.m.#7 & #8) Readings: Monk. 15 Sept. Federalists 10 & 51 Reading: Monk. 154-198 (Amendments 3-10) Oct. Do NOT contact me. Common Sense & the Declaration of Independence (Quiz #6) Sept. Madison 7 Marbury vs. 249-263 (Amendments Dec. 17 Sept. Plymouth & Boston (Group Quiz #3) Reading: Hanoverian Kings & French and Indian War Reading: Revolutionary War. 126-153 Oct. (Article 2). 233-248 (Amendments 5 22-27) of Economic Justice course 16 – 21) (Quiz #16 [1st Extra-Credit quiz]) syllab Dec.m. Labor Day Holiday – No Class 1 Aug. Reading: Notes on the 19 & Dec. you may want to contact other students or your facilitator on any day you miss class to see if any important changes were made to the syllabus or due dates or deadlines. 2) Any discussion of the law is strictly for academic purposes. any Nov.