US government System History Study College University Science Notes Tests

From federalism to jacksonian democracy Discover 'The Rise and struggle of the American Democracy'

“Why study government?” What follows are the editors’ top ten reasons :

To understand the influence government has on your daily life.
To understand why the government produces the policies it does.
To understand and interpret current events in a rapidly changing world.
To understand how the United States attempts to resolve conflicts and seeks to establish order and security.
To develop the ability to solve problems and make good decisions when current events and economic and social issues affect you directly.
To apply your understanding when voting, petitioning, and speaking publicly.
To deal with the government effectively in your future profession.
To prepare for a career that requires a strong knowledge of government.
To use your understanding of government to participate and bring about change in your community or country.
To contribute to the success of a democracy that depends on your understanding and active participation.


Studying US government give students "an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United Statesand includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret the U.S. Government and various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. government and politics.”


This studies will prepare you to :

● describe and compare important facts, concepts, and theories pertaining to U.S. government and politics
● explain typical patterns and 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) ● interpret basic data relevant to U.S. government and politics (including data presented in charts, tables, and other formats)
● critically analyze relevant theories and concepts, apply them appropriately, and develop their connections across the curriculum


1. Constitutional Underpinnings of United States Government (5%–15%)
2. Political Beliefs and Behaviors (10%-20%)
3. Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Mass Media (10%-20%)
4. Institutions of National Government: The Congress, the Presidency, the Bureaucracy, and the Federal Courts (35%-45%)
5. Public Policy (5%-15%)
6. Civil Rights and Civil Liberties (5%-15%)