CIVICS

Essential Questions:  

Are United States citizens benefiting from being a republic?
What are the historical foundations of the US Constitutions?
How does the Constitution guarantee individual liberties?
Does the system of checks and balances work effectively?
Why are political parties important to the democratic process?

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Unit Overview:

This unit is designed to cover the forms of government, basic political vocabulary, and major historical documents and thinkers. The focus of this unit is the foundations of American government.

Essential Questions:  

How do decisions made by executive agencies impact individuals and groups outside the government?

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Unit Overview:

This unit covers the role and responsibilities of the President and Vice President, as well as federal executive agencies and their respective secretaries. Concepts covered include the order of presidential succession, the powers of the President as prescribed by the Constitution and checks to presidential power.  The presidential nomination and election process, as well as American citizens’ voting process will also be covered.

 

Essential Questions:

What influences legislation and public policy?

What purpose do interest groups serve in the democratic process?

How does public opinion influence government?

What powers does the Constitution give the Legislative branch?

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Unit Overview:

This unit provides an overview of the powers and limitations of the federal legislative branch.  Concepts covered include the powers of Congress as prescribed by the Constitution, as well as other branches’ checks on its power.  Students will identify current Congressional members and leadership, examine the process in which a bill becomes a law and understand the major differences between the Senate and House of Representatives.