• know important facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. government and politics |
| • understand typical patterns of political processes and behavior and their consequences (including the components of political behavior, the principles used to explain or justify various government structures and procedures, and the political effects of these structures and procedures) |
| • be able to analyze and interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics (including data presented in charts, tables, and other formats) |
| • be able to critically analyze relevant theories and concepts, apply them appropriately, and develop their connections across the curriculum |
Institutions of National Government
Students must become familiar with the organization and powers, both formal and informal, of the major political institutions in the United States: the Congress, the presidency, the bureaucracy, and the federal courts. Students should understand that these are separate institutions sharing powers and the implications of that arrangement. The functions these institutions perform and do not perform, as well as the powers that they do and do not possess, are important. It is necessary for students to understand that power balances and relationships between these institutions may evolve gradually or change dramatically as a result of crises. Students are also expected to understand ties between the various branches of national government and political parties, interest groups, the media, and state and local governments. For example, a study of the conflicting interests and powers of the president and Congress may help explain repeated struggles to adopt a national budget.Activist approach
Concurring opinion-
Constitutional court-
Court of appeals-
Dissenting opinion-
District courts-
Dual sovereignty-
Judicial activism-
Litmus test-
Per curiam opinion-
Political question-
Stare decisis-
Strict construction-
Writ of certiorari-
Wilson Ch. 16; Case Reading: Marbury v. Madison
