United States · Common Core State Standards
11th Grade Civics & Government
This course examines the foundations of American government through the lens of active citizenship and ethical decision making. Students analyze constitutional principles, the mechanics of federalism, and the evolving nature of civil liberties in a diverse society.
Foundations of American Democracy
Students explore the philosophical origins of the US Constitution and the inherent tensions between liberty and order.
An investigation into Enlightenment thought and the justification for government authority.
Analyzing the division of power between national and state governments.
A study of the primary arguments regarding the scope of executive and legislative power.
The Legislative Branch and Public Policy
Students examine how laws are made and the role of representation in a pluralistic society.
Exploring how congressional districts are drawn and the impact on political voice.
Analyzing the influence of specialized committees and lobbyists on the lawmaking process.
Evaluating how the government prioritizes spending and the ethics of fiscal policy.
Executive Power and Bureaucracy
An investigation into the expanding role of the Presidency and the administrative state.
Tracing the growth of executive orders and unilateral presidential action.
Examining the role of unelected officials in implementing and interpreting laws.
Analyzing the president's role in global affairs and war powers.
The Judicial Branch and Civil Liberties
Students analyze the role of the Supreme Court in interpreting the Constitution and protecting rights.
Studying originalism versus the living constitution approach to legal interpretation.
Exploring the limits of free speech, press, and religious exercise.
Analyzing the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments within the criminal justice system.
Civil Rights and Social Justice
A study of the struggle for equality and the government's role in addressing systemic discrimination.
Tracing the evolution of the Equal Protection Clause from Reconstruction to the present.
Examining barriers to voting and the impact of the Voting Rights Act.
Analyzing how grassroots movements influence government action.
The Ethics of Global Citizenship
Evaluating the role of the United States in the international community and the responsibilities of citizens in a globalized world.
Comparing US constitutional protections with international human rights standards.
Investigating the government's role in addressing climate change and resource management.
Analyzing the impact of social media and misinformation on democratic discourse.