Title AP US Government and Politics Type Essential Document Map Authors James Connolly, Patricia Sikorski Subject Social Studies Course None Selected Grade(s) 11, 12 Location Roxbury High School Curriculum Writing History Notes Attachments Page: 1 of 44
September/Week 1 - September/Week 4 September October November December January February March April May June 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 Foundations of American Government October/Week 5 - November/Week 12 The Political Process December/Week 13 - February/Week 24 Institutions of Government March/Week 25 - March/Week 27 Civil Rights and Civil Liberties March/Week 28 - April/Week 30 Public Policy April/Week 31 - May/Week 34 AP US Government and Politics Test May/Week 35 - June/Week 40 Capstone Final Project Page: 2 of 44
Duration: September/Week 1 - September/Week 4 UNIT NAME: Foundations of American Government Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards Debates regarding the scope and power of the federal government, states rights, and the rights of the individual, informed the creation of the country s political institutions, and continue to direct the course of American history. The Constitution is the framework for American democracy and has a direct influence on the lives of all citizens. What were the philosophical and ideological underpinnings of American democracy? Why did the Founding Fathers find it necessary to call the Constitutional Convention to reform the Articles of Confederation? How did the Founding Fathers answer questions regarding the nature and purpose of government? How did the Founding Fathers balance state power with the need for national unity? How and why did the Framers of the Constitution seek to limit the power of the federal government? How and why did the Framers of the Constitution seek to protect against the tyranny of the majority? How has the Constitution been changed to reflect the nation's changing values? The Enlightenment ideas and thinkers behind the American Revolution and their role in shaping the Constitution. The political and economic tension between the United Kingdom and the American colonies, which led to Revolution. The principles of democratic government. The weaknesses of the Articles of Confederation and the need to call a Constitutional Convention. The central questions regarding the role of government that informed the debates at the nation's founding. The arguments of the Federalists and Anti-Federalists. The fundamental principles of the Constitution: representative government, federalism, states' rights, separation of powers, checks and balances, limited government and individual rights. The importance of the Constitution in establishing a Determine the central ideas and key concepts of primary and secondary sources. Analyze complex political ideologies found in primary and secondary sources. Integrate information from a diverse collection of sources into a coherent understanding of an idea, time period, or event. Evaluate varying authors' points of view on a specific idea or event. Assess the validity of an author's argument, with attention to author bias, point of view, quality of evidence and historical context. Apply content knowledge and cite specific textual evidence in cogent expository writing. 6.1.12.A.1.a-Explain how British North American colonies adapted the British governance structure to fit their ideas of individual rights, economic growth, and participatory government. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.1.b-Analyze how gender, property ownership, religion, and legal status affected political rights. (09-12) 6.1.12.2-Revolution and the New Nation: The war for independence was the result of growing ideological, political, geographic, economic, and religious tensions resulting from Britain s centralization policies and practices. The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights were designed to provide a framework for the American system of government, while also protecting individual rights. Debates about individual rights, states rights, and federal power shaped the development of the political institutions and practices of the new Republic. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.a-Analyze the intellectual origins of the major ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.c-Compare and Page: 3 of 44
viable democratic government. Amendments, or changes to the Constitution. Judicial Review established the Supreme Court as an equal branch of government and the ultimate authority on interpreting the Constitution. contrast state constitutions, including New Jersey s 1776 constitution, with the United States Constitution, and determine their impact on the development of American constitutional government. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.d-Compare and contrast the arguments of Federalists and Anti-Federalists during the ratification debates, and assess their continuing relevance. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.2.b-Evaluate the importance of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights to the spread of democracy around the world. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.1.a-Explain how economic ideas and the practices of mercantilism and capitalism conflicted during this time period. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.B.2.a-Analyze how the United States has attempted to account for regional differences while also striving to create an American identity. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.2.b-Explain the effects of inflation, debt, and attempts by new state and national governments to rebuild the economy by addressing issues of foreign and internal trade, banking, and taxation. (09-12) Page: 4 of 44
Plans: 6.1.12.A.2.e-Explain how judicial review made the Supreme Court an influential branch of government, and assess the continuing impact of the Supreme Court today. (09-12) Page: 5 of 44
Duration: October/Week 5 - November/Week 12 UNIT NAME: The Political Process Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards The will of the people in a representative democracy is transmitted to the government and turned into action through a variety of mechanisms. The United States is a profoundly diverse democracy, divided by region, demographics and ideology. The United States republic has a two party political system, with each party having their own history and ideological beliefs. How is the will of the people transmitted to the government and turned into action? How do factors such as socioeconomic status, occupation, ideology, race, religion, region and socialization influence public opinion and political action? What are the function and organization of American political parties? How does the American electoral process work? How is American democracy affected by such forces as mass media, interest groups and political action committees? Demography and how it shapes political opinions. The process and factors that influence political socialization. Political ideologies and their influence on thinking and behavior. The impact of mass media on American politics. The function and organization of American political parties. The history and beliefs of the two major political parties. The workings of the American electoral process at different levels of government, local, state and federal. The impact of money, media and interest groups on campaigning and elections. The factors that influence how and why people vote in elections. The purpose and organization of interest groups. The influence of interest groups on different aspects of American democracy, such as elections, Analyze the factors that influence political belief and behavior. Assess the impact of the media, money and interest groups on the American political process. Differentiate between the two major political parties and their ideas. Identify the various party eras in American political history. Evaluate the fairness and effectiveness of the electoral process in the United States. Synthesize information from a multitude of sources, including books, private governmental organizations, periodicals, television and radio, into a coherent understanding of a political process. 6.1.12.A.2.f-Examine the emergence of early political parties and their views on centralized government and foreign affairs, and compare these positions with those of today s political parties. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.g-Determine the extent to which state and local issues, the press, the rise of interest-group politics, and the rise of party politics impacted the development of democratic institutions and practices. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.6.a-Evaluate the effectiveness of Progressive reforms in preventing unfair business practices and political corruption and in promoting social justice. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.10.c-Evaluate the short- and long-term impact of the expanded role of government on economic policy, capitalism, and society. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.10.b-Compare and contrast the economic ideologies of the two major political parties regarding the role of government during the New Deal and today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.d-Analyze the conflicting ideologies and Page: 6 of 44
public opinion and public policy. actions of political parties regarding spending priorities, the role of government in the economy, and social reforms. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.e-Evaluate the effectiveness and fairness of the process by which national, state, and local officials are elected and vote on issues of public concern. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.f-Determine the extent to which nongovernmental organizations, special interest groups, third party political groups, and the media affect public policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.g-Analyze the impact of community groups and state policies that strive to increase the youth vote (i.e., distribution of voter registration forms in high schools). (09-12) 6.1.12.B.14.a-Determine the impact of recent immigration and migration patterns in New Jersey and the United States on demographic, social, economic, and political issues. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.14.b-Analyze how regionalization, urbanization, and suburbanization have led to social and economic reform movements in New Jersey and the United States. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.14.c-Determine the impact of the changing role of Page: 7 of 44
Plans: labor unions on the economy, politics, and employer-employee relationships. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.f-Determine the influence of multicultural beliefs, products (i.e., art, food, music, and literature), and practices in shaping contemporary American culture. (09-12) 6.1.12.16-Contemporary United States: Interconnected Global Society: Scientific and technological changes have dramatically affected the economy, the nature of work, education, and social interactions. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.a-Determine the impact of media and technology on world politics during this time period. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.c-Assess from various perspectives the effectiveness with which the United States government addresses economic issues that affect individuals, business, and/ or other countries. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.16.a-Evaluate the economic, political, and social impact of new and emerging technologies on individuals and nations. (09-12)[State:New Page: 8 of 44
Duration: December/Week 13 - February/Week 24 UNIT NAME: Institutions of Government Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards Understanding of the powers of government institutions, the individuals that constitute them, and how those individuals are chosen, is critical knowledge for active and competent citizens of the Republic. Each branch of government has specific powers, roles and responsibilities, and each branch has the ability to check and limit the power of the other branches. What are the powers, roles and responsibilities of each branch of government? How does each branch of government check and balance the power of the other branches? What were the constitutional powers of each branch, and how has that changed over time? How are the individuals that constitute each branch of government chosen? How do the institutions of government respond to the will of the people in a representative democracy? How do the various institutions of government work together to implement public policy? The powers and responsibilities of Congress. How the business of Congress is conducted. The differences and similarities in the powers, structures and workings of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The process by which a bill becomes a law. How Congressional decision making and legislation is influenced by constituencies, interest groups and lobbyists, among others. How members of Congress are elected, and the factors influencing the outcome of those elections. The role and power of Congress in relation to the other branches of government. The powers and responsibilities of the President. How the business of the Executive Branch is conducted. The president's constitutional Analyze the relationships between the various institutions of government. Explain the powers, responsibilities and workings of the United States Congress. Compare and contrast the House of Representatives and the Senate. Identify the principal factors that influence Congressional elections and Congressional policy making. Assess the effectiveness of Congress as a governing and representative body. Explain the powers and responsibilities of the President of the United States. Evaluate the expansion of presidential power throughout American history. Apprise the role of presidential power on American politics. Describe the roles of various actors in the Executive Branch, such as the vice president, cabinet, Executive Office, First Lady and the White House staff. 6.1.12.A.1.a-Explain how British North American colonies adapted the British governance structure to fit their ideas of individual rights, economic growth, and participatory government. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.2.c-Compare and contrast state constitutions, including New Jersey s 1776 constitution, with the United States Constitution, and determine their impact on the development of American constitutional government. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.e-Explain how judicial review made the Supreme Court an influential branch of government, and assess the continuing impact of the Supreme Court today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.f-Examine the emergence of early political parties and their views on centralized government and foreign affairs, and compare these positions with those of today s political parties. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.d-Describe how the Supreme Court increased the power of the national government and promoted national economic growth during this era. (09-12) Page: 9 of 44
powers and the expansion of presidential power over time. How the president is elected and the factors influencing the outcome of presidential elections. The role and power of the president in relation to the other branches of government. How the federal government is funded, including the budgetary process. The role, power and organization of the federal bureaucracy, especially as it relates to the federal budget and implementation of public policy. How federal bureaucrats obtain their jobs. How the unelected federal bureaucracy is controlled by the President and Congress. The relationship between the national, state and local governments. The powers and responsibilities of the Supreme Court. The structure of the federal court system. How federal judges and justices on the Supreme Court are chosen. Consider the growth of the federal budget and the expanding role of government. Explain the roles, powers and organization of federal bureaucracy. Assess the effectiveness of the bureaucracy in implementing public policy. Examine the relationship between the bureaucracy and the scope and power of the federal government. Outline the structure of the federal court system. Create an analysis of the judicial process at the level of the Supreme court. Determine the factors that influence Supreme Court decisions. Evaluate the power of the judiciary in American democracy. 6.1.12.A.10.c-Evaluate the short- and long-term impact of the expanded role of government on economic policy, capitalism, and society. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.10.b-Compare and contrast the economic ideologies of the two major political parties regarding the role of government during the New Deal and today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.12.b-Examine constitutional issues involving war powers, as they relate to United States military intervention in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other conflicts. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.14.a-Evaluate the effectiveness of the checks and balances system in preventing one branch of national government from usurping too much power during contemporary times. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.b-Analyze how the Supreme Court has interpreted the Constitution to define the rights of the individual, and evaluate the impact on public policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.14.d-Analyze the conflicting ideologies and actions of political parties regarding spending priorities, the role of government in the Page: 10 of 44
Plans: The process by which Supreme Court decisions are reached, and the factors that influence those decisions. The use of Judicial Review by the Supreme Court and its role in shaping public policy. The role and power of the Judiciary as it relates to other branches and institutions of government. economy, and social reforms. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.e-Evaluate the effectiveness and fairness of the process by which national, state, and local officials are elected and vote on issues of public concern. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.f-Determine the extent to which nongovernmental organizations, special interest groups, third party political groups, and the media affect public policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.14.b-Judge to what extent government should intervene at the local, state, and national levels on issues related to the economy. (09-12) Page: 11 of 44
Duration: March/Week 25 - March/Week 27 UNIT NAME: Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards Citizens need to be aware of their rights and responsibilities in relation to the government in order to make responsible and informed decisions in their lives and communities. Civil Rights and Civil Liberties have been denied to certain groups throughout American history. The push toward greater equality for all citizens has been a long and constant struggle, requiring political, social and economic pressure to enact change. What are Civil Rights and Liberties and from where are they derived? Why have rights and liberties been denied to certain groups at various times during the nation's history? How has progress been made in achieving equal rights and protections for all citizens? How has the United States balanced the rights and liberties of the individual, with the need to protect all citizens? The substantive rights and liberties of American citizens, but also the limits on those rights and liberties. Civil Liberties are primarily derived from the Bill of Rights and protect individuals from government action. Civil Rights are derived primarily from Amendment 14 and provide protections for citizens from discriminatory treatment. The 14th Amendment guaranteed due process and equal protection under the law, and became the primary tool in the struggle for greater equality. The process by which Civil Rights and equality before the law were achieved by various groups to which they were previously denied. The role of the Supreme Court and Judicial Review in interpreting the rights and liberties of American citizens. The doctrine of selective incorporation, or the application of the Bill of Rights to the states. The ways in which the Describe the substantive rights and liberties of American citizens. Determine the limits and boundaries of citizens' rights and liberties. Trace the process by which the Bill of Rights was applied to the states. Explain how the struggle for greater equality has been achieved by different groups over time. Evaluate the role of the judiciary in the expansion of rights and liberties. Consider how civil rights and liberties both limit and expand the power of the government. Assess how civil rights and liberties affect democratic government. 6.1.12.A.1.a-Explain how British North American colonies adapted the British governance structure to fit their ideas of individual rights, economic growth, and participatory government. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.1.b-Analyze how gender, property ownership, religion, and legal status affected political rights. (09-12) 6.1.12.2-Revolution and the New Nation: The war for independence was the result of growing ideological, political, geographic, economic, and religious tensions resulting from Britain s centralization policies and practices. The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights were designed to provide a framework for the American system of government, while also protecting individual rights. Debates about individual rights, states rights, and federal power shaped the development of the political institutions and practices of the new Republic. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.b-Evaluate the importance of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights to the spread of democracy around the world. (09-12)[State:New Page: 12 of 44
protection of the Civil Rights and Liberties of the individual both limit and expand the power of the government. 6.1.12.A.2.e-Explain how judicial review made the Supreme Court an influential branch of government, and assess the continuing impact of the Supreme Court today. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.2.b-Explain why American ideals put forth in the Constitution (i.e., due process, rule of law, and individual rights) have been denied to different groups of people throughout time. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.4.b-Analyze how ideas found in key documents (i.e., the Declaration of Independence, the Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolution, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Gettysburg Address) contributed to demanding equality for all. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.4.d-Judge the effectiveness of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments in obtaining citizenship and equality for African Americans. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.4.e-Analyze the impact of the Civil War and the 14th Amendment on the development of the country and on the relationship between the national and state governments. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.6.b-Evaluate the ways in which women organized to promote government policies Page: 13 of 44
(i.e., abolition, women s suffrage, and the temperance movement) designed to address injustice, inequality, workplace safety, and immorality. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.6.c-Relate the creation of African American advocacy organizations (i.e., the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) to United States Supreme Court decisions (i.e., Plessy v. Ferguson) and state and local governmental policies. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.6.c-Analyze the successes and failures of efforts to expand women s rights, including the work of important leaders (i.e., Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Alice Paul, and Lucy Stone) and the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment. (09-12) 6.1.12.13-Postwar United States: Civil Rights and Social Change: The Civil Rights movement marked a period of social turmoil and political reform, resulting in the expansion of rights and opportunities for individuals and groups previously discriminated against. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.13.b-Analyze the effectiveness of national legislation, policies, and Supreme Court decisions (i.e., the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Page: 14 of 44
Rights Act, the Equal Rights Amendment, Title VII, Title IX, Affirmative Action, Brown v. Board of Education, and Roe v. Wade) in promoting civil liberties and equal opportunities. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.13.a-Explain how individuals and organizations used economic measures (e.g., the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sit downs, etc.) as weapons in the struggle for civil and human rights. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.13.a-Determine the impetus for the Civil Rights Movement, and explain why national governmental actions were needed to ensure civil rights for African Americans. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.13.c-Analyze the successes and failures of women s rights organizations, the American Indian Movement, and La Raza in their pursuit of civil rights and equal opportunities. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.b-Analyze how the Supreme Court has interpreted the Constitution to define the rights of the individual, and evaluate the impact on public policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.14.c-Assess the merit and effectiveness of recent legislation in addressing the health, welfare, and citizenship status of individuals and groups. (09-12) Page: 15 of 44
Plans: 6.1.12.A.14.h-Assess the effectiveness of government policies in balancing the rights of the individual against the need for national security. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.14.d-Evaluate the extent to which women, minorities, individuals with gender preferences, and individuals with disabilities have met their goals of equality in the workplace, politics, and society. (09-12) Page: 16 of 44
Duration: March/Week 28 - April/Week 30 UNIT NAME: Public Policy Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards The United States government uses a variety of tools and processes to implement social, economic and foreign policy on behalf of the American people. The implementation of public policy often requires the involvement and cooperation of several different institutions of government. What institutions of government are responsible for making domestic policy, such as economic, social welfare, healthcare, the environment and energy? What factors and ideas influence the shaping of US domestic policy? What institutions of government are responsible for making national security and foreign policy? What factors and ideas influence the shaping of US foreign policy? The relationship between different institutions of government, lobbyists and interest groups in the creation and enactment of public policy. The tools that government can employ to address economic problems, most notably fiscal and monetary policy. Prevailing economic theories, namely Keynesian and supplyside economics. The scope and impact of social welfare and entitlement programs. The problems and disagreements related to healthcare in the United States, and the appropriate role of government in citizens' health. The conflict between environmental protection and the need for economic growth. The principle sources of energy in the United States and the debates surrounding energy policy. The primary instruments and actors in the making of US national security and foreign Analyze the relationship between different institutions of government and other actors in the creation and implementation of public policy. Identify the policy tools that can be employed by government to address economic problems. Differentiate varying economic theories. Describe the scope and impact of social welfare and entitlement programs. Identify the principle sources of energy in the United States. Evaluate the debates surrounding US domestic policy, including social welfare, economic theory, healthcare and energy. Explain the evolution of US foreign and national security policy over time. Assess the impact of globalization on domestic politics and policies in the United States. Apply content knowledge and analysis to expository writing. 6.1.12.B.2.a-Analyze how the United States has attempted to account for regional differences while also striving to create an American identity. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.2.c-Relate events in Europe to the development of American trade and American foreign and domestic policies. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.a-Assess the influence of Manifest Destiny on foreign policy during different time periods in American history. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.3.b-Determine the extent to which America s foreign policy (i.e., Tripoli pirates, the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812, the Monroe Doctrine, the War with Mexico, and Native American removal) was influenced by perceived national interest. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.c-Assess the role of geopolitics in the development of American foreign relations during this period. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.3.d-Analyze the role education played in improving economic opportunities and in the development of responsible citizens. (09-12)[State:New Page: 17 of 44
policy. The evolution of US foreign policy, especially during the Cold War and following September 11th. The impact of globalization on domestic politics and policies in the United States. 6.1.12.A.5.b-Assess the impact of governmental efforts to regulate industrial and financial systems in order to provide economic stability. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.5.a-Analyze government policies and other factors that promoted innovation, entrepreneurship, and industrialization in New Jersey and the United States during this period. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.5.c-Assess the effectiveness of public education in fostering national unity and American values and in helping people meet their economic needs and expectations. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.6.c-Analyze the impact of money, investment, credit, savings, debt, and financial institutions on the development of the nation and the lives of individuals. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.6.b-Compare and contrast the foreign policies of American presidents during this time period, and analyze how these presidents contributed to the United States becoming a world power. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.9.a-Explain how government can adjust taxes, interest rates, and spending and use other policies to restore the country s economic health. Page: 18 of 44
(09-12) 6.1.12.C.9.b-Explain how economic indicators (i.e., gross domestic product, the consumer index, the national debt, and the trade deficit) are used to evaluate the health of the economy. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.10.b-Assess the effectiveness of governmental policies enacted during the New Deal period (i.e., the FDIC, NLRB, and Social Security) in protecting the welfare of individuals. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.10.c-Evaluate the short- and long-term impact of the expanded role of government on economic policy, capitalism, and society. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.10.b-Compare and contrast the economic ideologies of the two major political parties regarding the role of government during the New Deal and today. (09-12) 6.1.12.12-Postwar United States: Cold War: Cold War tensions between the United States and communist countries resulted in conflict that influenced domestic and foreign policy for over forty years. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.12.d-Assess the role of the public and private sectors in promoting economic growth and ensuring economic stability. Page: 19 of 44
(09-12) 6.1.12.A.13.c-Determine the extent to which changes in national policy after 1965 impacted immigration to New Jersey and the United States. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.13.b-Evaluate the effectiveness of environmental movements and their influence on public attitudes and environmental protection laws. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.13.c-Determine the effectiveness of social legislation that was enacted to end poverty in the 1960s and today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.c-Assess the merit and effectiveness of recent legislation in addressing the health, welfare, and citizenship status of individuals and groups. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.d-Analyze the conflicting ideologies and actions of political parties regarding spending priorities, the role of government in the economy, and social reforms. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.f-Determine the extent to which nongovernmental organizations, special interest groups, third party political groups, and the media affect public policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.14.c-Evaluate the impact of individual, business, and government decisions and actions on the environment, and Page: 20 of 44
assess the efficacy of government policies and agencies in New Jersey and the United States in addressing these decisions. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.14.a-Use economic indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of state and national fiscal (i.e., government spending and taxation) and monetary (i.e., interest rates) policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.14.b-Judge to what extent government should intervene at the local, state, and national levels on issues related to the economy. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.14.c-Analyze economic trends, income distribution, labor participation (i.e., employment, the composition of the work force), and government and consumer debt and their impact on society. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.14.d-Relate the changing manufacturing, service, science, and technology industries and educational opportunities to the economy and social dynamics in New Jersey. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.14.a-Determine the relationship between United States domestic and foreign policies. (09-12)[State:New Page: 21 of 44
6.1.12.D.14.b-Assess the effectiveness of actions taken to address the causes of continuing urban tensions and violence. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.15.b-Determine the effectiveness of the United States in pursuing national interests while also attempting to address global political, economic, and social problems. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.15.e-Analyze the impact of United States support for the policies and actions of the United Nations and other international organizations. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.15.f-Evaluate the effectiveness of United States policies and actions in supporting the economic and democratic growth of developing nations. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.15.a-Evaluate the effectiveness of the United States government s efforts to provide humanitarian assistance during international natural disasters and times of crises. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.15.a-Relate the role of America s dependence on foreign oil to its economy and foreign policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.15.b.-Assess economic priorities related to international and domestic needs, as reflected in the Page: 22 of 44
national budget. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.15.a-Compare United Nations policies and goals (i.e., the International Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Millennium Development Goals) intended to promote human rights and prevent the violation of human rights with actions taken by the United States. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.15.b.-Compare the perspectives of other nations and the United States regarding United States foreign policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.15.c-Explain how and why religious tensions and historic differences in the Middle East have led to international conflicts, and analyze the effectiveness of United States policy and actions in bringing peaceful resolutions to the region. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.b-Analyze government efforts to address intellectual property rights, personal privacy, and other ethical issues in science, medicine, and business that arise from the global use of new technologies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.c-Assess from various perspectives the effectiveness with which the United States government addresses economic issues that Page: 23 of 44
Plans: affect individuals, business, and/ or other countries. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.16.a-Explain why natural resources (i.e., fossil fuels, food, and water) continue to be a source of conflict, and analyze how the United States and other nations have addressed issues concerning the distribution and sustainability of natural resources. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.16.a-Evaluate the economic, political, and social impact of new and emerging technologies on individuals and nations. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.16.b-Predict the impact of technology on the global workforce and on entrepreneurship. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.16.c-Assess the impact of international trade, global business organizations, and overseas competition on the United States economy and workforce. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.16.c-Determine past and present factors that led to the widening of the gap between the rich and poor, and evaluate how this has affected individuals and society. (09-12) Page: 24 of 44
Duration: April/Week 31 - May/Week 34 UNIT NAME: AP US Government and Politics Test Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards AP US Government and politics provides students with the philosophical, constitutional, institutional and social underpinnings that form the basis of American government and politics. What are the fundamental concepts and theories that underlie US government and politics? What are the primary origins of political beliefs and behavior, and their effects? How do political processes and the institutions of government function? The concepts and theories that form the foundation of US government and politics. The origin of of political beliefs and behavior and their effect on American democracy. The roles, powers, functions and organizations of the institutions of government. The workings of the American political process. Analyze complex political concepts and theories. Determine the origin of political beliefs and behavior, and assess their impact. Identify the roles, powers, functions and organizations of the institutions of government. Explain the workings of the American political process. Interpret a diverse set of data and sources, presented in various formats. Synthesize information into a coherent understanding of a concept, time period or event. Apply content knowledge and analysis across the curriculum through debate, expository writing and collaborative, problem-based projects, among other assessments. 6.1.12-U.S. History: America in the World.: All students will acquire the knowledge and skills to think analytically about how past and present interactions of people, cultures, and the environment shape the American heritage. Such knowledge and skills enable students to make informed decisions that reflect fundamental rights and core democratic values as productive citizens in local, national, and global communities. (09-12) 6.1.12.1-Colonization and Settlement: North American Colonial societies adapted European governmental, economic, and cultural institutions and ideologies to meet their needs in the New World. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.1.a-Explain how British North American colonies adapted the British governance structure to fit their ideas of individual rights, economic growth, and participatory government. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.1.b-Analyze how gender, property ownership, religion, and legal status affected political rights. (09-12) Page: 25 of 44
6.1.12.2-Revolution and the New Nation: The war for independence was the result of growing ideological, political, geographic, economic, and religious tensions resulting from Britain s centralization policies and practices. The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights were designed to provide a framework for the American system of government, while also protecting individual rights. Debates about individual rights, states rights, and federal power shaped the development of the political institutions and practices of the new Republic. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.a-Analyze the intellectual origins of the major ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.b-Evaluate the importance of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights to the spread of democracy around the world. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.2.c-Compare and contrast state constitutions, including New Jersey s 1776 constitution, with the United States Constitution, and determine their impact on the development of American constitutional government. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.d-Compare and contrast the arguments of Page: 26 of 44
Federalists and Anti-Federalists during the ratification debates, and assess their continuing relevance. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.2.e-Explain how judicial review made the Supreme Court an influential branch of government, and assess the continuing impact of the Supreme Court today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.f-Examine the emergence of early political parties and their views on centralized government and foreign affairs, and compare these positions with those of today s political parties. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.2.a-Analyze how the United States has attempted to account for regional differences while also striving to create an American identity. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.2.b-Explain why American ideals put forth in the Constitution (i.e., due process, rule of law, and individual rights) have been denied to different groups of people throughout time. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.d-Describe how the Supreme Court increased the power of the national government and promoted national economic growth during this era. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.3.g-Determine the extent to which state and local Page: 27 of 44
issues, the press, the rise of interest-group politics, and the rise of party politics impacted the development of democratic institutions and practices. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.4.b-Analyze how ideas found in key documents (i.e., the Declaration of Independence, the Seneca Falls Declaration of Sentiments and Resolution, the Emancipation Proclamation, and the Gettysburg Address) contributed to demanding equality for all. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.4.d-Judge the effectiveness of the 13th, 14th, and 15th Amendments in obtaining citizenship and equality for African Americans. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.4.e-Analyze the impact of the Civil War and the 14th Amendment on the development of the country and on the relationship between the national and state governments. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.5.c-Assess the effectiveness of public education in fostering national unity and American values and in helping people meet their economic needs and expectations. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.6.c-Analyze the successes and failures of efforts to expand women s rights, including the work of important Page: 28 of 44
leaders (i.e., Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Alice Paul, and Lucy Stone) and the eventual ratification of the 19th Amendment. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.10.b-Compare and contrast the economic ideologies of the two major political parties regarding the role of government during the New Deal and today. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.13.b-Analyze the effectiveness of national legislation, policies, and Supreme Court decisions (i.e., the Civil Rights Act, the Voting Rights Act, the Equal Rights Amendment, Title VII, Title IX, Affirmative Action, Brown v. Board of Education, and Roe v. Wade) in promoting civil liberties and equal opportunities. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.13.b-Evaluate the effectiveness of environmental movements and their influence on public attitudes and environmental protection laws. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.13.a-Explain how individuals and organizations used economic measures (e.g., the Montgomery Bus Boycott, sit downs, etc.) as weapons in the struggle for civil and human rights. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.13.a-Determine the impetus for the Civil Rights Movement, and explain why national governmental actions Page: 29 of 44
were needed to ensure civil rights for African Americans. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.13.c-Analyze the successes and failures of women s rights organizations, the American Indian Movement, and La Raza in their pursuit of civil rights and equal opportunities. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.a-Evaluate the effectiveness of the checks and balances system in preventing one branch of national government from usurping too much power during contemporary times. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.b-Analyze how the Supreme Court has interpreted the Constitution to define the rights of the individual, and evaluate the impact on public policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.14.c-Assess the merit and effectiveness of recent legislation in addressing the health, welfare, and citizenship status of individuals and groups. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.d-Analyze the conflicting ideologies and actions of political parties regarding spending priorities, the role of government in the economy, and social reforms. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.e-Evaluate the effectiveness and fairness of the process by which national, Page: 30 of 44
state, and local officials are elected and vote on issues of public concern. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.f-Determine the extent to which nongovernmental organizations, special interest groups, third party political groups, and the media affect public policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.g-Analyze the impact of community groups and state policies that strive to increase the youth vote (i.e., distribution of voter registration forms in high schools). (09-12) 6.1.12.A.14.h-Assess the effectiveness of government policies in balancing the rights of the individual against the need for national security. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.14.a-Determine the impact of recent immigration and migration patterns in New Jersey and the United States on demographic, social, economic, and political issues. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.14.c-Evaluate the impact of individual, business, and government decisions and actions on the environment, and assess the efficacy of government policies and agencies in New Jersey and the United States in addressing these decisions. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.14.a-Use economic Page: 31 of 44
indicators to evaluate the effectiveness of state and national fiscal (i.e., government spending and taxation) and monetary (i.e., interest rates) policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.14.b-Judge to what extent government should intervene at the local, state, and national levels on issues related to the economy. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.14.c-Analyze economic trends, income distribution, labor participation (i.e., employment, the composition of the work force), and government and consumer debt and their impact on society. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.a-Determine the relationship between United States domestic and foreign policies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.b-Assess the effectiveness of actions taken to address the causes of continuing urban tensions and violence. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.b-Assess the effectiveness of actions taken to address the causes of continuing urban tensions and violence. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.c-Determine the impact of the changing role of labor unions on the economy, Page: 32 of 44
politics, and employer-employee relationships. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.14.d-Evaluate the extent to which women, minorities, individuals with gender preferences, and individuals with disabilities have met their goals of equality in the workplace, politics, and society. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.14.e-Evaluate the role of religion on cultural and social mores, public opinion, and political decisions. (09-12) 6.1.12.D.14.f-Determine the influence of multicultural beliefs, products (i.e., art, food, music, and literature), and practices in shaping contemporary American culture. (09-12) 6.1.12.15-Contemporary United States: International Policies: The United States has used various methods to achieve foreign policy goals that affect the global balance of power, national security, other national interests, and the development of democratic societies. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.15.a-Analyze the factors that led to the fall of communism in Eastern European countries and the Soviet Union, and determine how the fall influenced the global power structure. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.15.b-Determine the Page: 33 of 44
effectiveness of the United States in pursuing national interests while also attempting to address global political, economic, and social problems. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.15.a-Relate the role of America s dependence on foreign oil to its economy and foreign policy. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.16.a-Determine the impact of media and technology on world politics during this time period. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.b-Analyze government efforts to address intellectual property rights, personal privacy, and other ethical issues in science, medicine, and business that arise from the global use of new technologies. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.16.c-Assess from various perspectives the effectiveness with which the United States government addresses economic issues that affect individuals, business, and/ or other countries. (09-12) 6.1.12.B.16.a-Explain why natural resources (i.e., fossil fuels, food, and water) continue to be a source of conflict, and analyze how the United States and other nations have addressed issues concerning the distribution and sustainability of natural Page: 34 of 44
Plans: resources. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.16.a-Evaluate the economic, political, and social impact of new and emerging technologies on individuals and nations. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.C.16.b-Predict the impact of technology on the global workforce and on entrepreneurship. (09-12) 6.1.12.C.16.c-Assess the impact of international trade, global business organizations, and overseas competition on the United States economy and workforce. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.16.b-Explain how and why technology is transforming access to education and educational practices worldwide. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.D.16.c-Determine past and present factors that led to the widening of the gap between the rich and poor, and evaluate how this has affected individuals and society. (09-12) Page: 35 of 44
Duration: May/Week 35 - June/Week 40 UNIT NAME: Capstone Final Project Enduring Understandings Essential Questions Knowledge Skills Standards The United States Republic is a deeply complicated tapestry, consisting of a multitude of competing institutions and groups, all of which must find common ground in order to govern effectively. How can the United States solve its myriad of complicated problems, both foreign and domestic, in a rapidly changing 21st century world? Student knowledge will largely depend upon the topics chosen by student groups at the beginning of the project. To apply content knowledge and analysis in order to find viable solutions to current, complex political problems. 6.1.12.A.1.a-Explain how British North American colonies adapted the British governance structure to fit their ideas of individual rights, economic growth, and participatory government. (09-12)[State:New 6.1.12.A.1.b-Analyze how gender, property ownership, religion, and legal status affected political rights. (09-12) 6.1.12.2-Revolution and the New Nation: The war for independence was the result of growing ideological, political, geographic, economic, and religious tensions resulting from Britain s centralization policies and practices. The United States Constitution and Bill of Rights were designed to provide a framework for the American system of government, while also protecting individual rights. Debates about individual rights, states rights, and federal power shaped the development of the political institutions and practices of the new Republic. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.a-Analyze the intellectual origins of the major ideas expressed in the Declaration of Independence. (09-12) 6.1.12.A.2.b-Evaluate the Page: 36 of 44