AP Government Course Outline

1. Introduction to Government and Politics

• Definition of Government
• Theories of Government
• Purpose and functions of Government

2. The Constitution

• Historical context and drafting
• Key principles
  • Separation of powers
  • Federalism
  • Checks and balances
• Amendments and their significance

3. Federalism

• Definition and explanation
• Powers of the federal and state governments
• Intergovernmental relations

4. Political Culture and Socialization

• Components of political culture
• Agents of socialization
• Impact on political behavior

5. Political Participation

• Voting and elections
• Political parties and interest groups
• Media and its role

6. Institutions of Government

• The Presidency
• Congress
• The Judiciary

7. Public Policy

• Policymaking process
• Domestic and foreign policy issues
• Public policy analysis

8. Civil Liberties and Civil Rights

• Bill of Rights
• Landmark Supreme Court cases
• Current issues in civil liberties and rights

9. Public Opinion and Political Behavior

• Measurement of public opinion
• Factors influencing political behavior
• Impact on policy decisions

10. Review and Exam Preparation

• Review of key concepts and topics
• Practice exams and questions
• Exam-taking strategies