Time Schedule:
Lloyd Jansen
POL S 202
Seattle Campus
Institutions and politics in the American political system. Ways of thinking about how significant problems, crises, and conflicts of American society are resolved politically. Offered: AWSpS.
Class description
Description: This course introduces students to the United States political system – its origins, institutions, and operations. It is not just about government – although we will most certainly explore and engage that key component of the political system on a regular basis. It is just as much about politics in these United States – that often maddening and, at other times, invigorating subject that constantly affects our lives. Further, we will regularly incorporate current political issues into our discussions and analysis. As an introductory course, it is assumed that the student begins with a fairly limited understanding of the American political system. And while all introductory courses are far from comprehensive, this course will serve to equip students with a very good working knowledge of the political system we live in. For those who pursue further studies in Political Science, this class will also serve as an essential foundational course.
Student learning goals
General method of instruction
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Texts: Required reading will include Losco & Baker, AmGov (McGraw-Hill)as well as U.S. and foreign newspapers, handouts, and Web sites.
Grading: Grading will be based on a quiz, exams, analyses of news articles and editorials, and a short research essay.