United States Constitution and Government traces the nation's history from the pre-colonial period to the present. Students learn about the Native American, European, and African people who lived in America before it became the United States. They examine the beliefs and philosophies that informed the American Revolution and the subsequent formation of the government and political system. Students investigate the economic, cultural, and social motives for the nation's expansion, as well as the conflicting notions of liberty that eventually resulted in civil war. High school completion credit only. Students may earn 0.25-1.0 HS credits. This course may be repeated.
Prerequisites
Students must be referred from participating school district and registered in a Basic Skills Open Doors class.
Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to demonstrate the following knowledge or skills:
- The student understands the physical characteristics, cultural significance, and location of places and regions of the United States.
- The student understands historical chronology and analyzes causal factors that have shaped major events in United States history.
- The student understands key ideals and principles of the United States, including those in the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and other foundational documents.
- The student understands the purposes, organization, and function of governments, laws, and political systems.
- Geography and colonization of early America
- Events leading to the Revolutionary War
- Declaration of Independence and the Articles of Confederation
- United States Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other historical documents
- Historical speeches and women in American history
- Westward expansion and the impact on indigenous peoples
- Three branches of government
- Government today: President, Vice-President, Chief Justice, Speaker of the House, Senators, and Representatives
- United States political parties and elections