US Government / AP Comparative Government

Are you passionate about politics, lawmaking, and the inner workings of world governments? Then our Government class is the perfect opportunity for you to explore your interests and make a difference! In this dynamic and engaging class, you'll delve into the intricacies of various political systems, from elections to legitimacy. You'll learn about the roles and responsibilities of elected officials, the legislative process, and the challenges facing our world today. But this class is not just about theory. You'll also have the chance to apply your knowledge through hands-on activities, such as mock debates and research projects. You'll develop critical thinking skills, effective communication abilities, and a deeper understanding of the issues that shape our world.

This course is the 2nd part to a rhetorical level course intended to introduce the student to the major themes and functions of the government. Students may join even without completing part 1. This semester will focus on Comparative Government and aligns with AP Comparative Government.  This course will involve both writing and reading.  We will be reading a full-range of primary documents from each topic we study.  You will be learning how to read, think about, analyze, argue with, and present ideas about political science and to connect events to the larger trends and themes in world history.  

This is a self-paced version of my popular live US and Comparative Government Part 1 course.  This class is taught at a standard level, however, I am able to offer additional work as well as AP designation on your transcript if you would like your student to take this class at an AP level, as I have AP authorization--please contact me about this option.  Part 1 is AP US Government and Part 2 is AP Comparative Government. I am able to share my authorization letter to include with your transcript, and we are listed on the AP ledger. The instructor is an AP approved grader and authorized teacher. 

This class is a discussion-based, interactive format. Each week you will be responsible for reading background material and assigned primary documents.  You will be expected to write a reading response for each of your readings.  These reading responses should be 1-2 pages on the background material for each topic.  In class, we will spend much time discussing our reading, putting themes in their historical context and asking questions about the author’s and our own worldviews. You will also be assigned brief presentations.  These presentations will involve researching the biographical information for significant figures and key information for major moments we will study in class. 

This part will explore a variety of world governments with historical and modern day examples.  Students will conduct independent research to augment our study of world governments.  

What to expect from this course:
-Strengthening your skills of primary text analysis
-Improve critical thinking skills through oral and written discussion
-Develop an understanding of comparative world governments
-Explore the political decisions that shape the modern world
-Compare political systems internationally to understand variations and the reasoning behind them