STANDARD COURSE OF STUDY

POLITICAL SCIENCE

Knowledge of political science includes understanding political institutions: why they exist, how they function, and how each institution relates to all others. Only with this knowledge can citizens participate effectively and creatively in their political/legal system.

Understanding the historical development of structures of power, authority, and governance and their evolving functions in contemporary United States society, as well as in other parts of the world, is essential for developing civic competence. An understanding of civic ideals and practices of citizenship is critical to full participation in society and is a central purpose of the social studies. All people have a stake in examining civic ideals and practices across time and in diverse societies as well as at home and in determining how to close the gap between present practices and the ideals upon which our democratic republic is based.

By examining the purposes and characteristics of various governance systems, learners develop an understanding of how groups and nations attempt to resolve conflict and seek to establish order and security. Through study of the dynamic relationships among individual rights and responsibilities, the needs of social groups, and concepts of a just society, learners become more effective problem-solvers and decision-makers. While addressing the persistent issues and social problems encountered in public life, students apply concepts and methods of political science and law.

Elementary Grades
Learners in the early grades explore their natural and developing sense of fairness and order as they experience relationships with others. They develop an increasingly comprehensive awareness of rights and responsibilities in specific contexts. Students are introduced to civic ideals and practices through activities such as helping to set classroom expectations, examining experiences in relation to ideals, and determining how to balance the needs of individuals and the group.

Middle Grades
During the middle school years, these rights and responsibilities are applied in more complex contexts with emphasis on new applications. During these years, children also experience views of citizenship in other times and places through stories and drama. Students expand their abilities to analyze and evaluate the relationships between ideals and practice. They are able to see themselves taking civic roles in their communities.

High School
High school students develop their abilities to understand abstract principles. They study the various systems that have been developed over the centuries to allocate and employ power and authority in the governing process. At every level, learners should have opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills and to participate in the working of the various levels of power, authority, and governance. There should be opportunities to confront such issues as the protection of privacy in the age of computers, electronic surveillance, and medical technology with all of their implications for longevity and quality of life and religious beliefs. Students increasingly recognize the rights and responsibilities of citizens in identifying societal needs, setting directions for public policies, and working to support both individual dignity and the common good. They can learn by experience how to participate in community service and political activities and how to use the democratic process to influence public policy.

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