United States · Common Core State Standards
9th Grade Civics & Government
This course explores the foundations of American democracy and the evolving relationship between citizens and the state. Students analyze constitutional principles, investigate the mechanics of government branches, and evaluate the ethical dilemmas inherent in modern civic life.
Foundations of American Democracy
Students examine the philosophical origins of the U.S. government and the core tensions between liberty and order.
An investigation into how Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau influenced the framing of the American system.
Analyzing the debates of the Constitutional Convention regarding representation and federal power.
Exploring the shifting boundary between state sovereignty and national authority.
The Legislative Branch: The People's House
A deep dive into the lawmaking process and the challenges of representing a diverse constituency.
Tracing the legislative process from committee markup to the President's desk.
Examining how redistricting affects the fairness and outcomes of elections.
Assessing the impact of special interest groups and money in the legislative arena.
The Executive Branch and Bureaucracy
Analyzing the expanding roles of the President and the administrative agencies that govern daily life.
Evaluating the various duties of the President as Chief Executive, Diplomat, and Commander in Chief.
Exploring how agencies like the EPA and FDA translate laws into specific regulations.
Analyzing how the executive branch interacts with the world and manages global conflicts.
Justice, Ethics, and the Courts
Students investigate the judicial system, legal interpretation, and the pursuit of justice in America.
Examining how the Supreme Court interprets the Constitution and checks other branches.
Analyzing the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments within the criminal justice system.
Tracing the evolution of the 14th Amendment through landmark court cases.
Civil Liberties and Individual Rights
An exploration of the Bill of Rights and the ongoing debates over personal freedoms.
Investigating the limits and protections of the First Amendment in the digital age.
Analyzing the Establishment and Free Exercise clauses in public life.
Exploring the implied right to privacy and its application to technology and personal autonomy.
Participatory Citizenship and Policy
Students apply their knowledge to local issues and develop skills for active civic engagement.
Examining the factors that influence how and why citizens participate in elections.
Understanding how city and county governments impact daily life and how to influence them.
Developing strategies for productive deliberation and consensus building on controversial topics.