Course Syllabus

Syllabus United States Government

Mizzou Academy

 Welcome

As we begin, let’s take a moment to think about US Government. You may think “why do I need to learn this?” The United States is part of the global community. Changes in its political philosophy, laws, and policies can affect the international community. For example, the US has many trade agreements and peace treaties with countries throughout the World. In addition, many countries have political structures that were heavily influenced by the US Constitution.

 Course Overview

Responsible citizenship, including civil and political participation, is essential to maintaining a government that represents "We the People."  In this course, you will examine the principles that inspired the U.S. Constitution, investigate the basic citizen rights protected by the Bill of Rights, and learn about the structures and functions of the three branches of the U.S. government. Finally, you will explore the role of the individual within civil society.

 Course Objectives

The objective of this course is that students will be able to

• Explain the importance of individual participation in the democratic process.
• Analyze the role of the Constitution in shaping American institutions.
• Describe how the Constitution protects the individual rights of American citizens.

 Pacing

This course can be completed in as few as six weeks or take up to 6 months (180 calendar days). The six weeks are counted from the date of the first lesson submission and not the date of enrollment.

 Required Materials

No outside textbook is required for this course. Speakers or a pair of headphones (headphones preferred) would be beneficial for reviewing videos.

 Technical Requirements

The most up-to-date requirements can be found here: 

•   Computer Requirements
•   Browser Requirements
•   Proctoring Requirements
• Microphone (external or internal)
• Webcam

Additional requirements for the course are below: 

• audio and video recording capabilities (e.g. smartphone, camera)

 Accessibility

If you anticipate barriers related to the format or requirements of this course, please let   Mizzou Academy know as soon as possible. If disability-related accommodations are necessary (for example, a scribe, reader, extended time on exams, captioning), please   contact Mizzou Academy.

 Exams

You are required to take two proctored exams for this course.  Each exam will contain multiple-choice questions. There are two writing prompts that are part of the examination category. However, the writing prompts will be submitted separately, and are not part of the proctored time.

 Grades

Your final grade will be based on the number of points you earn on assignments and exams.

The following grading scale applies:

After completing the course, unofficial transcripts will be available in the Tiger Portal. See this page for information on requesting official transcripts. 

 Canvas and Technical Support

Canvas will be used as the primary platform for accessing course materials and assignments for this class.

• Access Canvas through the Tiger Portal   https://mizzouacademy.missouri.edu/
• For assistance with Canvas, passwords, or other technical issues, submit a ticket by selecting Help from the Global Navigation menu on the left in Canvas. Additional information is provided in the following Canvas Guide:   How do I get help with Canvas as a student?
• For questions about enrollment, access to courses, exam proctoring, or billing, contact our Support Services Team at (855) 256-4975 or   mizzouacademy@missouri.edu.