Offered: Full Year 2012-2013
Co-requisite: US History

This is a full year course offering that includes both the AP US Government and Politics course and the AP Comparative Government and Politics course. Students should expect to take both AP exams at the end of this full year offering. This course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States and around the world, involving both the study of general concepts used to interpret politics and the analysis of specific case studies. Students will become familiar with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. and global political realities This course begins with a study of the historical and ideological roots of American government, its fundamental institutions and practices, and the political and social landscape within which they now operate. Through a factual study of American government and a philosophical reflection on the nation’s founding documents and analyses–such as the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, the Federalist Papers, and numerous Supreme Court decisions, and many reflective essays on American politics–students will gain a deep understanding and appreciation for the aspirations, strengths and limitations of the American system of government.