National Government

National Government examines and development of constitutional government
in America and how our federal system functions. A great deal of time will be taken
in discussing the origins of the Declaration of Independence and the
development of the constitution. Understanding why the founders created the
Constitution and what key parts of it mean will serve as the foundation of the
course. In this way students can really get a sense of what this historic
document means and how our nation progressed by using it.

Additionally, practical understanding of basics related to the running of
our government will be focused on. Budgeting, deficits, federalism,
impeachment, censure, how bills are passed, the electoral college,
gerrymandering and many other basic topics and terms will be discussed. The
focus is not on dry definitions but explanations, anecdotes, examples and a
real understanding of how our system is supposed to work and how it currently
works. We will look at the historical changes in laws and ideas in the US
related to government such as the elimination of slavery, changing how senators
are elected and altering how America goes to war.

Further, the rich origins of our nation will be properly understood. The
Biblical concepts of individual rights given to us by God, distrust of too much
human power because of our depravity, and other vital concepts will be
explored. Students will have a solid grasp of how our nation runs by the end of
the course that will prepare them to be knowledgeable citizens.

Having
earned two Master’s degrees (History, Education) I really love to take my knowledge
and use it to help students learn and get them excited about learning!  My previous teaching experience includes: 10
years teaching at several universities, 7 years teaching at a college preparatory
high school, and living and teaching in China for a year.

Why take
this course?

1)      All assignments can be done based
on your own schedule

2)      Students will be able to better
understand the facts and learn to think critically

3)      Lectures ask a lot of questions
and are designed for students to interact with whenever your schedule allows

4)      This course lays the groundwork
for future Political Science courses but also provides solid footing as a
citizen/student if no future similar course is taken

5)      Course includes interactive PowerPoint
lectures, quizzes, writing, summarizing, note-taking, reading and critical
thinking!