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American Government
2009-2010
Mr. Combass
Topics
The following topics will be covered throughout the course of the year.
- Interrelationships between American government and the economic system
- Documents that shape our political traditions such as the Declaration of
Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Federalist Papers
- Functions of the three branches of government at the local, state, & national
- Florida government, including the State constitution
- Municipal and county government
- The evolving role of political parties and interest groups
- How rights & responsibilities of citizens in a democratic state have evolved
- Contemporary political issues
- Career opportunities available in government services
- Importance of civic participation in the democratic political process
- Role of women & diverse cultural groups in the development of our political
system
Materials
You will need to bring the following materials to class everyday.
¯ Notebook
¯ Notebook Paper
¯ Pens/Pencils/Planner
Grading Policy
The grading policy for my class is as follows:
¯ Unit/ Chapter Examinations 30%
¯ Classwork/ Homework 30%
¯ Portfolio/ Journal 15%
¯ Final 15%
¯ Projects/ Reports 10%
To determine letter grades, I will use the grading scale below:
A: 90 – 100
B: 80 - 89
C: 70 - 79
D: 60 - 69
F: 59 and below
Classroom Rules and Activity Expectations
Attached to this sheet is a list of activity expectations. This list outlines all of the activities that we will be engaged in during the school year. It also outlines what I expect from you during these activities and ways for you to ensure that I know that you are working.
Quiet Signal
At any point during an activity or class period, I will raise my right hand and say “One, Two, Three.” Once you see my hand or hear me say “One, Two, Three,” stop what you are doing and give me your undivided attention.
Absences and Tardies
In the event that you are absent from class, there are a few different ways to find out what you missed. You can check the classroom website, check with me before or after the next class you attend or check with a classmate. All missed work must be turned in within three (3) days after you return to class. If you are present and do not turn in an assignment when it is due, you will receive a zero for that assignment. All tests and quizzes can be made up with no penalty. If you are tardy to class, come in quietly and have a seat. DO NOT INTERRUPT THE CLASS! All school rules concerning absences and tardies will be reinforced.
Contact Information
In the event that you need to contact me outside of class, I can be reached at (386) 792 – 6540. My classroom extension is 2262. Please leave a message on my voicemail and I will respond to your call as soon as possible. If possible, you may also use my e-mail as a means of communication. My e-mail address is [email protected]. I am at school from 8:15 to 3:45 everyday.
I will also be using a classroom website as a means of communication. You will be able to see all assignments that are given as well as other important information. If you do not have access to the Internet, it is okay. Anything that is posted on the Internet will be discussed in class. The website address is: