Overview
Directions:
The purpose of this assignment is to demonstrate a solid comprehension of the subjects covered in class and the ability to think critically about those subjects. Write an essay in response to ONE of the prompts below. Essays should be no less than 3 double-spaced pages with a normal 11- or 12-point font. Use the textbook and any other assigned materials (like the Constitution) to support the points you make in your paper, but make sure you cite them properly. Use MLA format for citations. You can also use the slides from class for your own reference, but you do not have to cite them. The slides are available as PDFs on Canvas. You do NOT have to use any outside sources beyond the materials assigned in this class, but if you choose to use outside materials, ensure that they come from reputable sources and that you cite them properly. Submit your essay by uploading it to Canvas under the Final Paper assignment. Essays are due by 11:59pm on December 5th .
Prompts:
1. Federalism has been a defining aspect of American government since the ratification of the Constitution. Explain what federalism is, why it is important for American government, and how American federalism has changed over time.
2. The Supreme Court plays a unique role in American Government because of its power of judicial review. Explain what judicial review is and how it came to be. Choose at least one Supreme Court decision that we discussed in class (or that is discussed in the textbook) and use it to illustrate how judicial review impacts American Government.
3. The civil liberties and protections afforded by the U.S. Constitution have not always been extended to everyone equally. Explain why civil rights groups are important to the development of American government. Choose at least one civil rights movement that we discussed in class (or that is discussed in the textbook) to show how civil rights movements have changed American government. Discuss the types of strategies the movement used and the results that they achieved.