POLITICAL SCIENCE
COURSE
DESCRIPTION
Welcome
to POLITICAL SCIENCE, a course
designed to be a comparative introduction to the major concepts and themes of
political science. Two approaches
are commonly used to teach this course in high schools and colleges across
this nation. The first is a
detailed study of the U.S. government. The
second, more aptly known as the “principles-of-political science”
approach, endeavors to identify the properties universal to the governing
processes in all human societies and to understand the nature and consequences
of the major variations in those processes among different nations.
In other words, we will compare political systems throughout the world,
both past and present, using the U.S. system (presidential democracy) as our
basis.
While
the more traditional approaches to the study of any subject will be used in
this course; many “hands-on” or “real-world” methods will be used as
well. Examples include, but are
not limited to, the following: simulations,
role playing, research projects, guest speakers, opinion polls, interviews of
local public officials, letters to national and world figures/organizations,
debates, and so on.
In
any course with such a strong emphasis on using “real world” examples (in
the learning process) it is imperative that the students have a solid
background in current events. To
this end, the class will have regular (usually once or twice a week) current
events quizzes. Current events
will be discussed on a daily basis in this class and it is the responsibility
of all students to remain abreast of any “news” pertinent to our lives as
responsible and contributing members of society.
In-Class
Work:
Will consist of any assigned work completed in class (frequently will
involve working in cooperative groups).
Quizzes:
Once or twice per week on current events and as deemed necessary to
determine the level of comprehension of assigned readings.
Class
Participation:
Active and thoughtful participation will be expected in all class
activities and discussions.
Homework:
Usually will consist of a reading assignment but other “practice”
activities may be assigned to help students master concepts being learned.
Notebook
Check:
Each student will keep a daily log of activities as well as any
materials and assignments from the class.
Projects:
one or two per semester on “real world” topics.
Portfolio
Writing:
Each student will complete at least one document for use in his or her
writing portfolio.
Exams:
All exams will be comprehensive, will include an element of choice, and
will concentrate on critical thinking and problem solving rather than recall
of facts.
Quizzes
& Class/Homework……….27% of grade
Notebook/Portfolio
Items…………..18% of grade
Final
Exam…………………………10% of grade
1-3
ring binder (at least 1 ½”)
1-package
of loose leaf paper
1-pencil
(#2 lead)
1-ink
pen (blue or black ink)
Professor
of Political Science, University of New Mexico
Publisher:
West/Wadsworth
(859)
873-5434 ext. 245
7:30
AM- 9:30 A.M. & 3:00 PM-4:30 PM