When better to learn the basics of the US government than during a Presidential election? Students will learn the foundations of democracy, how US federalism operates, American elections and political parties, the workings of the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, the basics of the US constitution, and a little bit of US foreign policy.

Homework will be composed of reading or watching information that will then be used in class, and a weekly journal response. Sources include the Interactive Constitution, the Library of Congress, PBS, the National Archives, iCivics, and Crash Course.

Students can choose to take the class for a grade. Grades will be recorded based on class participation, journal responses, and a final project.