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Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences Government Department

http://www.hccs.edu/programs/areas-of-study/social--behavioral-sciences/government/

GOVT 2305: Federal Government | Lecture | #22564 Spring 2021 (Second Start) | - ADJUSTED - 11 Weeks (2.24.2021 - 5.12.2021)

Starting Off: Online on a Schedule (and/or in-person when applicable) Mon/Wed 6:00 – 7:50 PM

3 Credit Hours | 48 hours per semester

Instructor’s Preferred Methods of Contact Instructor:

Lanora McNeil-Doucet, M.P.A, M.Ed.

Office Phone: Contact via Remind101

Contact via Canvas

Office: Willie G. Hall – South Campus Office Hours: M/W 5-5:45 PM or by Appt

HCC Email: lanora.mcneildoucet@hccs.edu Office Location: Willie G. Hall – N/A

You can contact me through either my HCC email (lanora.mcneildoucet@hccs.edu), through

Canvas messaging, or via the Remind App (Remind101: Text to: 81010 – Text message: @govt22564) as preferred methods of contact. Emails sent from non-HCC accounts (i.e.

gmail, yahoo, or from work related accounts, etc…) will not receive a response.

Please feel free to contact me concerning any problems that you are experiencing in this

course. Your performance in my class is very important to me. I am available to hear your concerns and to discuss course topics. You can contact me through either Canvas, HCC

email, or Remind101. Keep in mind, I will not have access to HCC’s phone messaging system during Spring 2021 due to the quarantine so if you call the South Campus and leave a message, I will not be able to return the call. I will respond to emails within 24 hours,

Monday through Friday.

*** Please note if you contact me during non-business hours (any time outside of 5:00-5:45 PM M/W designated office hours; or outside of class time - 6:00-7:50 PM M/W) I will respond the next day. In addition, if you contact me over the weekend, I may not respond

until Monday.

What’s Exciting About This Course Students who finish GOVT 2305 will have completed one of the most relevant classes during their college career. In this class, it will be made clear that government and politics are in

everything that we, as citizens interact with each other, with our government leaders, and the policies our government leaders enact. This is especially the case now in Spring 2021

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given how so many events either are currently ongoing or will take place this year, ranging from the COVID-19 pandemic, the protests that have stemmed from centuries of systemic

racism, and the recent US presidential election and the aftermath, among others. In this course, we will be scratching the surface on the ins and outs of our federal government. As

chaotic as these major events have been and may continue to be, this is the best time to be enrolled in an introductory government class.

My Personal Welcome

On behalf of the Government Department faculty, I welcome you to the study of American

Government at Houston Community College. During the Fall 2020 semester, all courses at HCC will be taught in either one of three different instructional modalities: Online Anytime,

Online on a Schedule, and Flex Campus. Note that regardless of modality, ALL student coursework is expected to be completed online in Canvas (see blurb about Canvas on the next page).

Online Anytime classes are traditional online classes where there are no meetings at specific

times. Online on a Schedule classes are online courses with scheduled meeting times. Students are should log on for scheduled class meetings held each week. Flex Campus classes are classes are held in traditional classrooms in accordance with COVID-19 safety

measures. Students have the option to be either in physical attendance during class or attend classes as scheduled online. Understand that until at least October 5, 2020, classes

designated as Flex campus will be taught using the Online on a Schedule modality due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regardless of the course’ designated modality, ALL coursework is required to be completed online in Canvas. Additionally, expect the amount of material covered to not be significantly

different (or more difficult) than material covered in any other instructional modality.

This particular section of GOVT 2305 is taught using the Online on a Schedule modality. I would like to personally welcome every student taking my class. No matter what your

background in government may be, I try to challenge every student where they are in their education, and not where I think they should be. We all come from different backgrounds

and have different experiences. I sincerely hope that all my students succeed. But, grades in my class are not given, they are earned. My pledge to you is that I will always bring my best to every lecture, tutoring session, or whatever I do, and I genuinely hope you make the

same commitment in return.

Prerequisites and/or Co-Requisites GOVT 2305 requires college-level reading and writing skills. The minimum requirements for

enrollment in GOVT 2305 include concurrent enrollment in or successful completion of ENGL 1301. If you have enrolled in this course having satisfied this prerequisite, you have a higher chance of success than students who have not done so. Please carefully read and consider

the repeater policy in the HCCS Student Handbook.

Eagle Online Canvas Learning Management System

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This section of GOVT 2305 will use Eagle Online Canvas (https://eagleonline.hccs.edu). All students ARE able to access their class in canvas using their HCC login credentials (i.e. HCC

email and Password)

HCCS Open Lab locations may be used to access the Internet and Eagle Online Canvas. It is recommended that you use FIREFOX or CHROME as your browser.

HCC Online Information and Policies Here is the link to information about HCC Online classes including the required Online Orientation for all fully online classes: http://www.hccs.edu/online/

Textbook

The textbook for this course is found at https://openstax.org/details/books/american-

government-2e. It is online and FREE. Click on the website and scroll down a bit. You will find a table of contents, a PDF version, and a link to view the text online. Click on that link

and you will be able to navigate through the text chapter by chapter and section by section.

Some of the other features within McGraw-Hill’s Connect are required and will be used by the professor in this course [e.g. quizzes, exams, and LearnSmart/LS activities, and chapter

activities].

Other Instructional Resources

Tutoring HCC provides free, confidential, and convenient academic support, including writing critiques,

to HCC students in an online environment and on campus. Tutoring is provided by HCC personnel in order to ensure that it is contextual and appropriate. Visit the HCC Tutoring

Services website for services provided.

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Libraries The HCC Library System consists of 9 libraries and 6 Electronic Resource Centers (ERCs) that are inviting places to study and collaborate on projects. Librarians are available both at the libraries and online to show you how to locate and use the resources you need. The libraries

maintain a large selection of electronic resources as well as collections of books, magazines, newspapers, and audiovisual materials. The portal to all libraries’ resources and services is

the HCCS library web page at http://library.hccs.edu.

Supplemental Instruction Supplemental Instruction is an academic enrichment and support program that uses peer-assisted study sessions to improve student retention and success in historically difficult

courses. Peer Support is provided by students who have already succeeded in completion of the specified course, and who earned a grade of A or B. Find details at

http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/supplemental-instruction/.

Course Overview Government 2305 is one of two courses designed to introduce students to the study of the origin and development of the U.S. Constitution, structure and powers of the national government including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, federalism, political participation, the national election process, public policy, civil liberties and civil rights. The course goals are to develop an understanding of the institutions and political processes of the American political system; encourage critical thinking about political events; and introduce students to the discipline of Political Science and how political scientists study politics scientifically. This course is fully transferable to all Texas State colleges and universities.

Core Curriculum Objectives (CCOs)

The Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) mandates that the core curriculum must ensure that students will develop the essential knowledge and skills they need to be successful in college, in a career, in their communities, and in life. Through the Texas Core

Curriculum, students will gain a foundation of knowledge of human cultures and the physical and natural world, develop principles of personal and social responsibility for living in a

diverse world, and advance intellectual and practical skills that are essential for all learning. Students enrolled in GOVT 2305/2306 core curriculum courses will complete assessments designed to measure the following core objectives:

o Critical Thinking Skills—to include creative thinking, innovation, inquiry, and analysis, evaluation and synthesis of information

o Communication Skills—to include effective development, interpretation and expression of ideas through written, oral and visual communication

o Personal Responsibility—to include the ability to connect choices, actions and

consequences to ethical decision-making o Social Responsibility—to include the ability to connect choices, actions, and

consequences to ethical decision-making Student assessment of proficiencies mandated by THECB may include testing, projects, or

assignments.

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Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

1. Identify and describe the institutions of American national government.

2. Recognize and assume the responsibilities of citizenship by developing one’s critical thinking skills, engaging in public discourse, and by obtaining information through the news media.

Course Student Learning Outcomes (CSLOs)

Upon successful completion of this course, students will:

1. Explain the origin and development of constitutional democracy in the United States. 2. Demonstrate knowledge of the federal system. 3. Describe separation of powers and checks and balances in both theory and practice.

4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government.

5. Evaluate the role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties in the political system. 6. Analyze the election process.

7. Describe the rights and responsibilities of citizens 8. Analyze issues and policies in U.S. politics.

Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives for each CSLO can be found at GOVT 2305 can be found here.

Student Success

Expect to spend at least twice as many hours per week on your own in addition to the time you would normally spend during instruction. Additional time will be required for written

assignments. The assignments provided will help you use your study hours wisely. Successful completion of this course requires a combination of the following:

Reading the textbook

Attending class in person and/or online Completing assignments

Participating in class activities There is no short cut for success in this course; it requires reading (and probably re-reading) and studying the material using the course objectives as your guide.

Instructor and Student Responsibilities

As your Instructor, it is my responsibility to: Provide the grading scale and detailed grading formula explaining how student grades

are to be derived Facilitate an effective learning environment through learner-centered instructional

techniques

Provide a description of any special projects or assignments Inform students of policies such as attendance, withdrawal, tardiness, and make up

Provide the course outline and class calendar which will include a description of any special projects or assignments

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Arrange to meet with individual students before and after class as required

As a student, it is your responsibility to: Attend class in person and/or online

Participate actively by reviewing course material, interacting with classmates, and responding promptly in your communication with me

Read and comprehend the textbook

Complete the required assignments and exams Ask for help when there is a question or problem

Keep copies of all paperwork, including this syllabus, handouts, and all assignments Be aware of and comply with academic honesty policies in the HCCS Student Handbook

Course Calendar

A SEPARATE assignments schedule with due dates will be provided to students. The course is organized into 16 modules matching the 16 chapters of the textbook except for

Chapter 14 which we will not cover (over Texas state government). While each modules is worth 10 points, they are a collective that is worth ALL or nothing points (160 in

total), meaning you must complete ALL 16 in order to earn ANY points! *The professor will tally up and add the points into Canvas the last week of the semester, not before. The modules, assigned readings, and test coverage are as follows:

Module 1—American Government and Civic Engagement. Read Chapter 1. Module 2—The Constitution and Its Origins. Read Chapter 2. Module 3—American Federalism. Read Chapter 3.

Module 4—Civil Liberties. Read Chapter 4.

Test 1 Covers Modules 1-4

Module 5—Civil Rights. Read Chapter 5. Module 6—The Politics of Public Opinion. Read Chapter 6.

Module 7—Voting and Elections. Read Chapter 7. Module 8—The Media. Read Chapter 8.

Test 2 Covers Modules 5-8

Module 9—Political Parties. Read Chapter 9. Module 10—Interest Groups. Read Chapter 10. Module 11—Congress. Read Chapter 11.

Module 12—The Presidency. Read Chapter 12.

Test 3 Covers Modules 9-12

Module 13—The Courts. Read Chapter 13. Module 15—The Bureaucracy. Read Chapter 15. Module 16—Domestic Policy. Read Chapter 16.

Module 17—Foreign Policy. Read Chapter 17.

Test 4 Covers Modules 13-16

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Module Activity

Two (2) additional modules will be opened every week, after students would’ve had time to complete the preceding one/s [1 – 17 in numerical order]. Each module contains the

book’s power point slides and other additional resources you may find helpful. The best way to approach each module is by reading the chapter first, and then using the book’s power point slides to help organize your studying and note taking. There are also practice quizzes

and summary boxes at the end of each chapter so you can assess how well you’re understanding the material and to summarize what you learned. Each practice quiz can be

taken once. Completion of each module is worth 10 points, for an overall total of 160 points. ALL 16 MODULES MUST BE COMPLETED OR ZERO/NO POINTS WILL BE AWARDED (ALL OR NOTHING).

Exams

NO special provisions will be made for exams to be taken outside of regularly scheduled class hours. We will have four 100-point multiple-choice exams covering the

assigned chapters of the textbook. Because all testing will be done online using the Respondus lockdown browser AND webcam [*which are required components],

students will not have to come to campus (unless HCC returns to in-person learning during the Spring 2021 semester). You may take each exam once on designated

due dates, and retakes or make-ups WILL NOT be allowed (*unless specifically stated otherwise by the professor*). One exam will be dropped based solely on the professor’s discretion or choosing (not based on student requests). Absences on exam days

do not equate to an excused exam or automatic dropping of a particular exam score, so please be present for all 4 exams. Because the computer randomly selects questions from a

large database, no two tests are identical. Students should prepare for exams before they take them. Thus, exam study guides WILL NOT be provided, SO STUDY! AGAIN, THERE IS A NO RETAKE/NO MAKE-UP POLICY FOR EXAMS 1-4 (*unless specifically

stated otherwise by the professor). In the rare instance that a retake is granted for any exam [1-4], please note that unless a student takes the first administration, on

its originally scheduled due date, that a retake would NOT be possible or allowed! In such rare instances where retakes are allowed, the two scores would be averaged to produce a final score for said exam.

Final Exam

The final exam is simply exam number 4, and is not cumulative.

Discussion Boards

Students will also have to engage in five different discussion board topics (including the introductory discussion board). Sometimes, the discussion board will require you reading

outside materials (which I will link to Canvas when applicable) and writing a point of view response. You will also be required to respond to at least two classmate’s posts as well.

PLEASE be respectful when responding! Each discussion board is worth 20 points for a total of 100 points. However, the discussion board posts are worth ALL or nothing points. Students do not get to pick and choose if they will complete 1, 3, or 5 discussion

posts. You are required to complete ALL 5, or there will be ZERO (0) points awarded.

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Assignments, Exams, and Activities

1) Faculty are required to create a minimum of four (4) assignments. No one single

assessment can be worth more than 25% of your grade. 2) Written assignment(s) MUST count at least 25% of students’ course grades.

Instructors have discretion in determining how the course writing component will count as part of a student’s course grade so as long as the writing for the course overall counts for 25%. Some instructors assign long writing assignments of five or more

pages. Other instructors incorporate writing as part of the assigned exams or use short writing assignments or discussions. Advise students on the dates, deadlines, and

expectations regarding these written assignments. 3) All classes SHOULD incorporate a final exam in accordance with HCC’s final exam

schedule. Instructors have discretion in determining the manner in which a final exam

is administered (i.e. whether the exam is comprehensive of all course material covered during semester, etc.).

4) As you receive instructions concerning all of your required assignments throughout the semester (and in the syllabus), late work or make-up work is NOT acceptable/allowed! As a dedicated college student, it is your responsibility to

complete your assignments on time. Make-ups are not allowed for in-class assignments (if applicable), take home assignments (if applicable), online assignments, research

papers, term papers / term projects, special task projects, quizzes, exams, or online group presentations/activities!

5) Class assignments with hard due dates/deadlines are always due by 11:59 PM in Canvas.

NO EXCUSE will be accepted for late submissions (e.g., I uploaded the wrong assignment, I waited until 11:59 pm and the system cut me off, or my internet suddenly

stopped working, etc…). So make sure that you upload assignments 6 – 24 hours in advance, especially since NO assignment has less than 1 - 12 week deadlines.

6) When assignment templates are provided, the most popular word processing software in

the world is used to create them, Microsoft Word. When applicable, such templates can be found in the learning web resources folder and are the only ones that may be utilized.

Students are not allowed to create or design their own templates (work product) without clearance. Students have FREE access to Microsoft products via their student HCC email accounts upon logging in. If you experience difficulty in accessing MS

products from the learning web or via your student mail account, contact the HCC help desk.

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Assignments

Student grades will be based on six (8) components: 1) four tests, 2) the syllabus quiz, 3) five discussion boards, 4) two or three (2-3) special projects, 5) a term paper or project, 6) the completion of ALL (16) modules, 7) reflective journal, and 8) class participation.

The 1200 total point breakdown is as follows:

4 Exams [1 will be dropped] 300 pts.

1 Syllabus quiz 100 pts 5 Discussion posts 100 pts.

(*all 5 posts or NO/0 points)

2-3 Special projects 200 pts. [special project points will vary based on assignment type]

Term paper/project 120 pts. 16-*Module Completion 160 pts.

(*all 16 modules or NO/0 points)

Reflective weekly journal 120 pts.

Class participation [up to] 100 pts. (worth ALL or nothing [0] points)

---------- Total 1200 pts.

**Class participation is NOT optional! Class participation points (up to 100) for group in-class and group online activities will be awarded or deducted by the professor on a weekly basis.** Refusing to actively participate in any group activity

will result the loss of ALL 100 class participation points at once!

To figure out your final grade, you simply add up all the points you have earned during the semester and then compare that number to the total number of points

available for the course which is 1200. This will give you your grade.

Grading

The total number of points for the semester is 1200. Your grade will be based on the following grading scale as follows:

1074 - 1200 points = A 954 - 1073 points = B 834 - 953 points = C

714 - 833 points = D 713 below = F

DO NOT rely on the Canvas gradebook to

know your score. It is often not accurate. The professor will provide you with an individualized grade report the very last week of class prior to final grades being submitted.

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Important Dates

President’s Day – Monday, February 15, 2021 (NO CLASS!)

The course begins on Wednesday, February 24, 2021

Class was CANCELLED from 2/17-23/2021 due to inclement weather

The official day of record is Thursday, February 25, 2021

Spring Break is March 15 – 19, 2021

*Possible return to face to face learning the week of March 22nd

The last day to withdraw is April 15, 2021

The course ends on May 12, 2021

Make-up Policy

Again, as you receive instructions concerning all of your required assignments throughout the semester (and outlined in the syllabus), late work or make-up work is NOT

acceptable/allowed! As a dedicated college student, it is your responsibility to complete your assignments on time. Make-ups (and/or retakes) are NOT allowed for in-class assignments (if applicable), home assignments (if applicable), online assignments, group

assignments, research papers, term papers or term projects, special tasks or projects, presentations, or assessments (e.g., quizzes, tests, exams… unless specifically stated

otherwise)! Doing poorly on exams is not a sufficient reason to be afforded a re-take (again, unless specifically stated otherwise, retakes are not allowed).

Extra Credit

I do not foresee giving extra credit in this course as a result of the extraordinary times that we live in based on circumstances relating to the Coronavirus.

As a general rule of thumb, EXTRA CREDIT is NOT granted, though ultimately, a few opportunities may present themselves. **Extra credit assignments WILL NOT be

substituted or factored into the place of missing or failing grades (meaning... if you neglect to turn in a required class assignment for which you receive a zero (0), yet, turns in one for extra credit, it will be discredited, declared invalid, and you will

receive NO extra credit points!). Students will be limited to 2 extra credit submissions per semester where available, worth 50 points each. Any and all extra credit opportunities to

improve your grade will be announced to the entire class. None will be provided or considered beyond what I have announced to the class.

Academic Dishonesty

Plagiarism, cheating, and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited by college policy

and the rules of this class. Plagiarism involves using the ideas or words of another person (either in whole or in part) without crediting the source. It is inappropriate to look up answers to research project questions online and then paste them into your research project

or the discussion board. Cheating involves fraud and deception for the purpose of violating exam rules. Students who improperly assist other students are just as guilty as students who

receive the assistance. If two or more students submit work that is identical or nearly identical, in whole or in part, they are equally guilty of violating the academic dishonesty policy. A student guilty of academic dishonesty can receive a grade of F on the assignment

involved or be given an immediate F for the semester (professor’s discretion). If granted a

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reprieve for a first offense, and a second one occurs, the student will receive an automatic F for course, be referred to the appropriate dean, and have a Maxient disciplinary report filed.

What does this mean?

It’s OK to study together, but it is not OK to take an exam together.

Don’t take an exam for another student or allow someone else to take an exam for

you.

Don’t complete your discussion post or your research project by copying and pasting

text from an online site.

All faculty at HCC are required to document these violations in Maxient, a system used to report any student behavior that constitutes a violation of academic integrity, triggering involvement from other appropriate departments.

Here’s the link to the HCC information about academic integrity (Scholastic Dishonesty and Violation of Academic Scholastic Dishonesty and Grievance):

http://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--

procedures/student-procedures/

Academic Integrity Houston Community College is committed to a high standard of academic integrity in the

academic community. In becoming part of the academic community, students are responsible for honesty and independent effort. Examples of these violations include, but

are not limited to, the following: Plagiarizing written work or projects, cheating on exams or assignments, unauthorized collusion on course assignments, exams or projects, and misrepresentation of credentials or prerequisites when registering for a course.

Simply put, violations of academic integrity will NOT be tolerated. At a minimum, a grade of

“0” will be recorded on the assignment or exam in question. Additional sanctions may include but are not necessarily limited to the following: Being assigned an "F" for the course, being withdrawn from the course, or being expelled from the College.

All faculty at HCC are required to document these violations in Maxient, a system used to

report any student behavior that constitutes a violation of academic integrity, triggering involvement from other appropriate departments.

Here’s the link to the HCC information about academic integrity (Scholastic Dishonesty and Violation of Academic Scholastic Dishonesty and Grievance):

http://www.hccs.edu/about-hcc/procedures/student-rights-policies--procedures/student-procedures/

Scholarly Writing

Assignment submissions should adhere to standards of scholarly writing and academic honesty. For this course, cite references using APA formatting guidelines. For more

information please visit: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/general_format.html.

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Time Commitment

If you have never taken a second-start course before, just know that they fly by with lightning speed. In addition, they can also be overwhelming at times because this is a 16-

week regular course compacted into a 12-week session. The work amount is the same, but the time you have to get through it is not.

Online classes are more convenient than traditional in-person classes, but they are not less work. You should expect to spend more time on this class than you would spend on a

comparable on-campus class. Students who have been successful in similar online courses have said they devote around 10 hours a week on this particular class. If you do not have sufficient time to spend on the course, you will not be successful.

You should plan to work regularly on the course. This is not a self-paced class. You cannot

succeed in this class by working very hard for a few days and doing little or nothing for the rest of the term. The most successful students are those who sign into the website almost every day and complete their coursework on a regular basis. It is very important that you do

not fall behind. 1

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Attendance Procedures

Online attendance will be taken on a daily basis [twice weekly].

The expectation is for students to sign-in (log-on) by 6:00 PM, remain visible at all times [with cameras on], remain online and active for the duration of class until dismissal (at 7:50 PM). If you are planning to be

absent, late, or find yourself needing to leave early, send an email notifying the

professor in advance of class, preferably. Class will NOT be delayed or held up for tardy students! You are expected to attend every class meeting (2x per week) on

time during the course of the semester. This is showing basic respect to your classmates and professor. You are allowed 3 absences for whatever reason (12.5% of 48 hours = 6 hours = 3 days/sessions) except on exam days where you are expected to

be present. This is a 12-week semester course. Thus, I am strongly cautioning against missing any additional days (beyond that which you are allowed), or you will be

administratively withdrawn! This rule also applies to first day/first week “no show” students! If you miss the 1st night or 1st week of class [1 or 2 sessions], it will count as one or two absences! Absences and tardies count against you. Tardies can add up to an

absence. Class will begin promptly at 6:00 PM and will end precisely at 7:50 PM. Break time will be at 7:50 PM. A student may officially drop at the registrar's office

anytime up to and including April 15, 2021. Students who stop attending class, or who attend sporadically and do not withdraw before April 15, 2021, will be

administratively dropped. Students who attend class after April 15, 2021, cannot receive a W. Tardiness to class by more than 5 minutes (from 6:05 PM on…), and/or excessive, frequent or chronic tardiness can result in loss of points on any daily/in-

class assignment(s)/exercises (and will also be logged, counting toward absences)! If you show up past/beyond 6:45 PM, you will be officially marked absent for the day

(that class session). Failure to complete required assignments and coursework will also result in an administrative withdrawal. Texting, emailing, or passing messages through classmates during class time to advise the professor of any issues DOES NOT

negate a tardy or an absence… you will be marked tardy or absent if you are not present in class.

Grade of FX Policy:

Students who stop attending class and do not withdraw themselves prior to the withdrawal

deadline may either be dropped by their professor for excessive absences or be assigned the final grade of "FX" at the end of the semester. Students who stop attending classes will receive a grade of "FX", compared to an earned grade of "F" which is due to poor

performance. Logging into an online course without active participation is regarded as non-attending. Please note that HCC will not disperse financial aid funding for students who have

never attended class. Students who receive financial aid but fail to attend class will be reported to the Department of Education and may have to pay back their aid. A grade of "FX" is treated exactly the same as a grade of "F" in terms of GPA, probation, suspension, and

satisfactory academic progress.

Incomplete Policy:

In order to receive a grade of Incomplete (“I”), a student must have a legitimate non-

academic reason backed with appropriate documentation that is authentic and verifiable, and

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have completed at least 85% of the required work in the course. In all cases, the instructor reserves the right to decline a student’s request to receive a grade of

Incomplete.

It is safe to assume that incomplete (“I”) grades will not be granted to students. Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis should the student provide a legitimate non-academic reason backed with appropriate documentation that is authentic and

verifiable. Further, at least 85% of the required work in the course should have already been completed.

Students granted an “I” will have until the end of the next (following) semester to finish the

course. All “I’s will convert to “F’s” unless the student successfully completes all remaining

work as determined by the instructor.

Syllabus Modifications

The instructor reserves the right to modify the syllabus at any time during the semester and

will promptly notify students in writing, typically by e-mail or Canvas, of any such changes.

Electronic Devices

The following primarily applies to in-person learning, but can also apply when in an online

environment. As a student active in the learning community of this course, it is your responsibility to be respectful of the learning atmosphere while in class. Electronic devices of ANY TYPE (cell phones, recording devices, MP3 players, calculators, earbuds,

headphones, etc…) are not to be in use, or left in the on position while class is in session, unless specifically stated otherwise (you are given permission) by the

professor! ***Remember*** UNAUTHORIZED USE OF ANY TYPE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICE or accessories will result in the loss of some or ALL of your bonus activity points, as you cannot be actively involved or engaged in class/group activities or

discussions if you are preoccupied or otherwise engaged (using an electronic device)! Unless the class is currently working in McGraw-Hill Connect for quiz or

testing purposes, for in-class research purposes, or online class purposes, laptops or tablets should not be in use and should be stowed.

GROUP ASSIGNMENTS/PRESENTATIONS:

Four (4) super-groups will be formed to work together all semester long. There will be formal and informal group presentations (group chapter presentations, formal debates, in-class assignments, special projects, etc...). Rubrics will be provided along with specific

instructions per assignment. Groups may be asked to evaluate every other group’s presentations. Please remember that as a member of a group or team that your presence

would be required, as others are relying on you to fully participate and do your assigned part. Groups who have “no show” members on designated days of presentations will not

see their grades adjusted due to a group member not showing up. Only the grade(s) of group members who do not show up will be directly affected! Again, participating in online or in-person group activities is NOT optional, but required! Failure to do so will

result in the immediate loss of ALL class participation points at once, and being disqualified from being able to participate in any extra credit opportunities.

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REFLECTIVE JOURNALS (in Canvas)

A reflective journal is a learning activity that asks students to engage deeply with the course content by reflecting on its relevance to their own life or learning experience. Reflective

journals can be kept as a continuous diary, often useful at any time that suits the learning experience. For example, a reflective journal entry at significant deliverable points in a project can help students gain a deeper understanding of the project and the process, and

can influence the subsequent direction of the project. Reflective journals can be used simply for a student’s own learning journey, or as an assessable piece of work. This semester, you

will use “reflective journals” on a weekly basis to chronicle how government literally affects your lives as citizens. In order to fully describe personal experiences, there will be twelve, 2-paragraph entries (minimum of 6-8 sentences per paragraph), worth 10 points each, for a

total of 120 points, that are worth ALL or nothing points (students must have 12 weekly entries to complete the journal and earn ALL 120 points, or ZERO/0 points will be awarded).

EACH of the 12 entries should be completely different from prior ones, meaning… reflections should change from week to week with NO similarities.

ARTICLE SUMMARIES (when assigned – N/A for Spring 2021):

F.Y.I…. ALL JOURNAL ARTICLES MUST BE RECENT [within the current semester’s

time frame] AND PERTAIN TO A U.S. LOCAL, STATE, OR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT RELATED “HOT BUTTON” ISSUE!!! Articles selected must also reflect variety, NO repetition!!!

Embed the electronic article link to your one page summary (template will be

Provided with a space for the article link). Summarize the article, tell why you chose it, and explain whether or not you agree with the

issue and why.

You must also provide the: title, date, source, and name of author(s). All articles must be: one full page, typewritten,

double-spaced, font size 12, using text font New Times Roman or Arial. Students from the weekly presenting group (group 1, 2, 3, or 4) will make brief 1-2 minute article presentations every week, sharing what they have learned from the article, and how they feel

about the article’s topic. Articles/summaries (5) will be stamped by the professor or designee every week to ensure compliance! You will use a chronologically organized electronic

portfolio that will be submitted on Monday, November 30, 2020, for special project grade #3! The next portion is only applicable when in-person class is in session. Portfolios should be a standard student paper folder (any color), with 2 pockets and 3-

prongs so the articles/summaries may be attached (fastened) in ascending or descending order [a deduction will be applied to portfolios whose articles are not properly

fastened into place…loose].

COURSE WEBSITES & APPs

McGraw-Hill’s Connect: [connect-access codes will be provided during the second night of class only if applicable). M-H is not applicable for Spring

2021]: https://connect.mheducation.com/class/22564

HCC Canvas: grades and an assortment of assignments will be made available there

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(e.g., discussion board/blog, group assignments, quizzes, exams, special projects, etc…)

HCC Web Address [for syllabus, notes (if applicable), special postings, supplemental readings, etc…] https://learning.hccs.edu/faculty/lanora.mcneil

Assignment templates may also be found in the Spring 2021 – Resources Folder.

Remind101 Send text to: 81010 - Then text the following in the msg field: @govt22564

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HCC Policies Here’s the link to the HCC Student Handbook http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/student-handbook/ In it you will find information about the following:

Academic Information Incomplete Grades

Academic Support International Student Services

Attendance, Repeating Courses, and

Withdrawal

Health Awareness

Career Planning and Job Search Libraries/Bookstore

Childcare Police Services & Campus Safety

disAbility Support Services Student Life at HCC

Electronic Devices Student Rights and Responsibilities

Equal Educational Opportunity Student Services

Financial Aid TV (FATV) Testing

General Student Complaints Transfer Planning

Grade of FX Veteran Services

EGLS3 The EGLS3 (Evaluation for Greater Learning Student Survey System) will be available for

most courses near the end of the term until finals start. This brief survey will give invaluable information to your faculty about their teaching. Results are anonymous and will be available to faculty and division chairs after the end of the term. EGLS3 surveys are only available for

the Fall and Spring semesters. EGLS3 surveys are not offered during the Summer semester due to logistical constraints.

http://www.hccs.edu/resources-for/current-students/egls3-evaluate-your-professors/

Campus Carry Link Here’s the link to the HCC information about Campus Carry: http://www.hccs.edu/departments/police/campus-carry/

HCC Email Policy When communicating via email, HCC requires students to communicate only through the HCC email system to protect your privacy. If you have not activated your HCC student email

account, you can go to HCC Eagle ID and activate it now. You may also use Canvas Inbox to communicate.

Housing and Food Assistance for Students Any student who faces challenges securing their foods or housing and believes this may

affect their performance in the course is urged to contact the Dean of Students at their college for support. Furthermore, please notify the professor if you are comfortable in doing

so. This will enable HCC to provide any resources that HCC may possess.

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Government Program Information The Houston Community College Government department supports students in a number of

different ways. These include: GOVT Majors – Students can earn an Associate of Arts Degree in Government, which

will prepare them for majoring in Political Science or Government when they transfer

to a university. Majors and Minors—those students who are interested in Political Science or Government—are supported by a faculty committee who will connect them

to events, news, and opportunities. Careers in GOVT – The study of government or political science prepares students for

work in the public and private sectors by emphasizing critical thinking, analytical, and

communication skills. GOVT Student Organizations – The HCC Political Science Club holds discussions and

sponsors events to connect students to politics in the real world. GOVT Scholarships – The Government Department will work with students to locate

scholarship support, when possible.

Office of Institutional Equity

Use the link below to access the HCC Office of Institutional Equity, Inclusion, and Engagement (http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/)

disAbility Services HCC strives to make all learning experiences as accessible as possible. If you anticipate or

experience academic barriers based on your disability (including mental health, chronic or temporary medical conditions), please meet with a campus Abilities Counselor as soon as possible in order to establish reasonable accommodations. Reasonable accommodations are

established through an interactive process between you, your instructor(s) and Ability Services. It is the policy and practice of HCC to create inclusive and accessible learning

environments consistent with federal and state law. For more information, please go to http://www.hccs.edu/support-services/disability-services/

Title IX Houston Community College is committed to cultivating an environment free from

inappropriate conduct of a sexual or gender-based nature including sex discrimination, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and sexual violence. Sex discrimination includes all forms of sexual and gender-based misconduct and violates an individual’s fundamental rights and

personal dignity. Title IX prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex-including pregnancy and parental status in educational programs and activities. If you require an accommodation due

to pregnancy please contact an Abilities Services Counselor. The Director of EEO/Compliance is designated as the Title IX Coordinator and Section 504 Coordinator. All inquiries concerning HCC policies, compliance with applicable laws, statutes, and regulations (such as

Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504), and complaints may be directed to:

David Cross Director EEO/Compliance Office of Institutional Equity & Diversity

3100 Main (713) 718-8271

Houston, TX 77266-7517 or Institutional.Equity@hccs.edu

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http://www.hccs.edu/departments/institutional-equity/title-ix-know-your-rights/

Department Chair Contact InformationDepartment Chair: Dr. Cammy Shay Email Address: cammy.shay@hccs.edu

Office Number: 713-718-7141

Per the HCC Student Handbook, if you have a problem with your Government course, please contact your instructor before contacting the department chair.