Government & Economics A

Why This Class

Today more than ever, you want your student to have an informed voice in the conversation about politics and the economy in the U.S. This course helps your student develop a grounded perspective by introducing them to the roots of American government.

Mentors in this course lead students on an in-depth tour of the Constitution, exploring the rights, protections, and divisions of power that form a bulwark against its abuses. Students study the original writings of the founding fathers and political philosophers who gave rise to American democracy. Through frequent discussions and debates, students learn to compare the best arguments on all sides of constitutional and economic issues and refine their own social and political views.

By the end of this course, students are comfortable discussing the issues that matter to keeping America free. They see their vital role in maintaining liberty for future generations and feel highly motivated to make it happen.

Overarching Questions

What defines government?

What defines natural law?

How does the Constitution divide powers horizontally and vertically?

How does the Constitution protect human rights?

What are the characteristics of freedom?

Reading List

The Five Thousand Year Leap by Cleon Skousen

The Roots of American Order by Russell Kirk (optional)

*The Spirit of Laws by Charles Montesquieu

*The Second Treatise on Civil Government by John Locke

*The Federalist Papers by Hamilton, Madison, Jay

*The Law by Frederic Bastiat

*Available in the public domain so you can find these works free online. Links will be provided in the course if you do not wish to purchase the physical books.

Course Details

Recommended Grade: 11th (Junior)

Prerequisites: None

Estimated Weekly Hours: 5 (Classic); 7 (Honors)

Format: Live, self-paced

Credits: 0.5

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Please note that program and course descriptions, as well as reading and materials lists, are subject to change as we continuously improve our curriculum throughout the year. Book and materials lists for the upcoming school year are published in SIS mid to late June. Some courses require subscriptions e.g., Adobe software or online magazines that may not be covered by partner schools.