• 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.22nd Amendment-
25th Amendment-
Ad hoc structure-
Bully pulpit-
Cabinet-
Circular structure-
Divided government-
Electoral college-
Executive agreement-
Executive order-
Executive privilege-
Gridlock-
Impeachment-
Impoundment of funds-
Independent agencies-
Lame duck-
Legislative veto-
Line item veto-
Mandate-
National Security Council-
Office of Management and Budget-
Pardon-
Pocket veto-
Presidential coattails-
Pyramid structure-
Unified government-
Veto message-
Authorization legislation-
Bureaucracy-
Civil service-
Department-
Excepted service-
Iron triangle-
Issue network-
Name-request job-
Red tape-
Wilson Ch. 14 & 15; Electoral college maps 2000 and 2004; Chart: Presidential Approval; Chart analysis: Presidential Vetoes
