United States Government

Instructor: Ms. OKennon

kokennon@sussex.k12.va.us

Course Information: General studies students will gain an understanding of the

structure and principles of the government on the national level, the Commonwealth of
Virginia, and the local government including Sussex County. It defines the knowledge that
enables citizens to participate effectively in civic life. Students examine fundamental
constitutional principles, the rights and responsibilities of citizenship, the political culture,
the policy-making process at each level of government, and the operation of the United
States market economy. They will gain insight and understanding on major issues
confronting our society and the role of government responding to these issues.

Course Outline
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic
Topic

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11

Foundations of Government
Origins of American Government
The Constitution
Federalism
Age of Revolutions
Congress: The Legislative Branch
The Presidency
The Executive Branch
The Federal Courts and Judicial Branch
Civil Liberties
Civil Rights

Course Materials: Students will need

2 inch 3 Ring Binder with notebook paper (to be used for this class only).
Writing Materials (Pen and pencil and Paper EVERYDAY!)
Highlighters
Colored Pencils
Tissues
Hand Sanitizer
Grading Scale:
*This year we will be using a 10 point grading scale
A= 90-100
B= 80-89
C= 70-79
D= 60-69
F= 59 & Below
Grading Weights:
Tests/Major Projects 40%
Quizzes- 30%
Classwork- 20%
Homework- 10%
Rules & Expectations for World History and Geography 1500 A.D. to
Present
OKennon Government

Spring 2016

1. Follow all school rules, regulations, and policies. Think of it as a privilege to

be in school and this class. Both privileges can be taken from you.
2. Go to the bathroom and get water before the tardy bell, make sure to check
in with me first.
3. You are responsible for getting, completing, and turning in you make-up/late
work.
4. Fully Participate in class:
a. Ask questions
b. Answer questions
c. Complete all work
d. Fill in/take notes and margin notes
e. Fully listen to all speakers and videos
5. Be honest.
a. I dont want your excuse I want the truth. I can work with a truthful
explanation, I will not work with a lie.
6. No rough-housing.
7. Be polite by saying:
a. Yes
b. No
c. Maam
d. Excuse me
e. Thank you
f. Please
g. May I
h. Will you
8. Clean up after yourself.
a. My room is clean and organized. I expect you to leave it that way
every class. If you eat or drink, throw your trash away and dont make
a mess.
b. Straighten the desks and push in your chair.
c. Keep your stuff out of the aisle.
9. Come to EVERY class. We will be covering a LOT every day. You will be lost if
you miss.
10.
All head gear (hat, cap, head wrap, sunglasses) must be off and put
away.
11.
Your school supplied tablet is the only electronic devise allowed to be
used in the class.
12.
I will contact your parent if you and I cannot make it work.

OKennon Government

Spring 2016

I have both received and read the class syllabus and agree to follow/ support the
classroom rules.
Student Name _____________________________________
Student Signature ____________________________________
Guardian Signature and Phone
Number_____________________________________________
*signed return copy of this is a quiz grade!!

OKennon Government

Spring 2016