Government/Economics
Syllabus
James Clemens High School / Teacher: / Mr. Layne Rinks11306 County Line Road
Madison, AL 35756 / Email: /
Phone: / 256-261-5313 ext. 95231
I. / Course Description: / U.S. Government (9 weeks/ ½ credit)
This ½ credit course is normally paired with Economics and focuses on the nature and theory of civic responsibility, virtue, and participation. This course is an in-depth study of all three governmental branches.
Economics (9 weeks/ ½ credit)
This ½ credit course is normally paired with U.S. Government and focuses mainly on the American economic system’s concepts and theories; however, other economic systems will be incorporated into the study.
II. / Course Objectives: / Government is designed to introduce the student to the six basic principles of the United States that are embodied in our Constitution. Students will explore what led the founding fathers to construct this system, analyze groundbreaking documents, and gain insight into how these 235 year old ideas are still expressed today.
Economics focuses on the functions and institutions of modern-day economic systems and economic theory. Students will use the knowledge and analytical-thinking skills learned in previous courses (algebra, history, science) to analyze issues and problems in contemporary economic systems, while examining the consequences of public policies and their impact upon current economic conditions.
III. / Classroom Expectations: / Jet Core Values
-Be Respectful
-Be Responsible
-Be Resourceful
*All students are expected to adhere to these values in the classroom, the commons, and in the community.
Accommodations:
Requests for accommodations for this course or any school event are welcomed from students and parents.
Concerning laptop utilization:
1. Student laptops should not be hard wired to the network or have print capabilities.
2. Use of discs, flash drives, jump drives, or other USB devices will not be allowed on Madison City computers.
3. Neither the teacher, nor the school is responsible for broken, stolen, or lost laptops.
4. Laptops and other electronic devices will be used at the individual discretion of the teacher.
IV. / Grading Policy: / Test grades will account for 70% of the 9-weeks grade, with the remaining 30% being determined by quiz/daily grades. The grading scale is as follows: A (90-100), B (80-89), C (70-79), D (65-69), and F (below 65). Grades will be a reflection of mastery of the standards. The Final Exam counts for 1/5 of final grade.
V. / Make-up Test Policy: / Students are allowed to make up work for excused absences only. Students should see Mr. Rinks before or after any absences to receive work. Students will be allowed one week to make up work. After that, a zero will be earned for that assignment.
VI. / Text and Other Required Reading: / Government- Glencoe United States Government: Democracy in Action
Economics- Glencoe Economics: Principles and Practices
VII. / Materials and Supplies Needed: / 1” Binder or Notebook
Pen/Pencils/Highlighter
18 – WEEK PLAN
Week 1 / Origins of American Government
Week 2 / Principles of United States Government
Week 3 / Constitutional Makeup
Week 4 / Legislative Branch
Week 5 / Executive Branch – MID TERM / GOVERNMENT
Week 6 / Judicial Branch
Week 7 / Political Parties
Week 8 / Voters and Voting Behavior
Week 9 / Comparative Government – 9 WEEKS TEST/ GOVERNMENT FINAL
Week 10 / Scarcity/Basic Economic Concepts
Week 11 / Demand
Week 12 / Supply
Week 13 / Production – MID TERM/ ECONOMICS
Week 14 / Market Forces
Week 15 / Business Organization
Week 16 / Economic Performance
Week 17 / Fiscal Policy
Week18 / Comparative Economics - 9 WEEKS TEST / ECONOMICS FINAL
* The syllabus serves as a guide for both the teacher and student; however, during the term it may become necessary to make additions, deletions, or substitutions. Adequate notice will be provided to students of any necessary changes.
Dear Parent/Guardian,
I look forward to having a great year! I feel fortunate to have your son/daughter in my class this semester and hope that you will contact me should you have any concerns about the progress of your son/daughter or any aspect of the instruction. With your son/daughter, please read the attached policies, then sign and date this signature page and have your son/daughter return this form. Please provide a current email address and phone number at which I can contact you should the need arise. Please contact me at school with any concerns.
Thank you,
Mr. Rinks
My child and I have read and discussed the classroom syllabus.
Student Name (Print) ______Date______
Student Signature______Date______
Parent/Guardian Name (Print)______Date______
Parent/Guardian Signature______Date______
Email address______(w) ______(h)
Phone number______(w) ______(h) ______(c)
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