Presents terminology and concepts needed to explain the principles and functions of the Untied States and Texas governments. Emphasis is placed on evaluating the social contract theory and tracing the historical development of the Declaration of Independence and the Texas and American constitutions. The student will identify the concepts of federalism and evaluate the intergovernmental relationship between the United States government and the states. The course covers the national and state electoral process with emphasis on voting study data. Students will identify the role and functions in the electoral process of political socialization, the mass media, political parties, interest groups, and campaigns.
Students acquire information on the organization of the national and Texas executive departments.
This course satisfies the Texas legislative requirements for a course on the national and Texas constitutions for teacher certification. A passing score on the TASP reading section. Three hours lecture per week. Functions of the Institutions of American and Texas Government. Presents terminology and concepts needed to explain the principles and functions of the United States and Texas governments.