AP United States Government and Politics Bell
Summer 2012 Assignments
Introduction: AP Government is designed to introduce students to the structure and function of our government and political systems. The course looks at the historical development of the government, the functions of governmental branches and agencies, the political process, as well as contemporary political issues that continuously raise debate among political groups. The following activities are designed to introduce students to some of these concepts. Additionally, this is a presidential election year and should provide a lot of insightful information on the presidency, the election process, political socialization, and political participation.
STUDENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR COMPLETING ALL ASSIGNMENTS OVER THE SUMMER AND HAVE THEM TURNED IN THE FIRST DAY OF CLASS.
Assignment 1: The Constitution Assignment
You are to purchase The Words We Live By (Linda R. Monk) and use it as a reference for not only answering the questions on the assignment, but it is a useful reference tool throughout the year when looking at the Constitution. As best you can, use your own words to answer the questions. One of the biggest concepts in taking this course is developing and exercising the skill of critical thinking. Practice this concept when completing the assignment. Make sure you pay close attention not only to the text of the Constitution itself, but also the notes that accompany the information in the book.
Assignment 2: Understanding the Institutions of Government
The institutions section of the AP Government exam makes up about 50% of the material covered. It is imperative that you develop a firm understanding of the basic concepts surrounding the institutions and continue to develop your knowledge of the structure and functions of the institutions. From past experiences, this is the portion of the course that gives people the most trouble, because it makes up so much of the information on the exam. This assignment will help you gain a base understanding of the institutions and how they operate.
Assignment 3: Presidential Candidate Analysis
Anytime Presidential elections come around, people generally become more interested in politics. As we push into the November election, there are several polarizing issues that divide the American electorate. You are to do some research on the main policy points of each candidate’s campaign. Discuss at least four key issues and describe each candidate’s stance on that issue. Additionally, I encourage you to research polling and how the candidates are favoring in various states. Two great sites you could use for this assignment is and One site deals with polling data and the other deals with the Electoral College (you should be developing an understanding of each). Based on your research and analysis of the issues as well as the polling data, who do you think is going to win? Explain your answer. *** Two-page max for this assignment ***
Assignment 4: Hot Issues of Today
Persistent public issues dominate the spectrum of American politics. Part of the requirements for this class is to understand political socialization (how you react to various things happening in government, how you get your political ideals, etc.) and how people interact with government based on various issues. At the heart of this battle are the political factions that exist in government (political parties and conflicting ideologies). You will select four of the following questions below and complete the assignment. For each issue that you selected, type a detailed summary of the arguments made for each side of the questions (How would Liberals answer? Why? How would Conservatives answer? Why?) In your explanation of each issue be sure to find prominent politicians who support the various sides. Please include (and cite) their statements and opinions in your summaries. This is not an essay where you tell me what you believe; focus on what the factions believe. *** Approximately one-page max for each question (half devoted to one side and half devoted to the other) ***
Topics to Consider:
1)Should money be considered free speech in political campaigns? (consider the role of super PACs)
2)Is health care something every American should be required to have?
3)What should be done about illegal immigration?
4)Should alternative fuel sources be pursued?
5)Should the government offer welfare payments?
6)Should marijuana be legalized for medicinal purposes?
7)Should doctor-assisted suicide for terminally ill patients be legalized?
8)Should affirmative action programs be continued?
9)Should gay and lesbian couples be allowed to marry?
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