American Government Course

How does an understanding of American government empower us to effectively participate in our democracy?

Arizona Social Studies Standards - High School (PDF)

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Our goal of empowerment starts by equipping ourselves with a clear understanding of how our government operates and the roles we play in our democracy. We start by understanding the fundamental concepts of government and the rights that shape our society. We will uncover the guiding principles behind American government, including the significance of the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. We will analyze how federalism defines the relationship between state and federal powers and explore the essential rights and responsibilities of citizenship. We will examine the First Amendment and its impact on individual freedoms, particularly how these rights have evolved and continue to impact diverse communities. 

We continue by navigating the complex systems of governance and their influence on our everyday lives. Our focus will shift to understanding how foreign and domestic policies shape our communities, our nation, and the world. We will explore the critical role that civil rights play in our society and examine how various political parties and interest groups shape public opinion and policymaking. We will analyze the significance of elections and voter rights, recognizing how they empower us to have a voice in our democracy. In the end, our goal is to inspire ourselves and others to actively engage in the democratic process and advocate for the values that matter to us most.