Social Studies Curriculum Guide
Ninth Grade
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT
SUPERINTENDENT
James Wilson
BOARD MEMBERS
Julia Bernath, President
Linda Bryant, Vice-President
Gail Dean
Catherine Maddox
Katie Reeves
Linda Schulz
Ashley Widener
It is the policy of the Fulton County School System not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, or disability in any employment practice,
educational program, or any other program, activity, or service.
If you wish to make a complaint or request accommodation or modification due to discrimination in any program, activity, or service, contact Compliance Coordinator
Ron Wade, 786 Cleveland Avenue, SW, Atlanta, Georgia 30315, or phone 404-763-4585. TTY 1-800-255-0135.
Grade/Course: American Government, Grades 9-12
1
Standards: CG 1, 2, 19
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Standards: CG 3, 4, 5
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Standards:
CG 6, 7, 8
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Unit One Focus:
Foundations of
American Government
Unit Two Focus:
The United States
Constitution
Unit Three Focus:
Civic Responsibility
Unit Four Focus:
Legislative Branch
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Limited Government
00Three key English documents
00Three key philosophers
Popular Sovereignty
00Declaration of Independence
00The Social Contract Theory
Civil Liberties/Rights
00Rights established by key
historical documents
Comparative Governments
00Structure and organization of
world governments
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Development and organization of
U.S. government
00Relationship between state and
national governments
00Powers denied state and national
government
00Ratification Debate
00Supremacy Clause
00Rule of Law
00Republic, Democracy
Popular Sovereignty
00Fundamental principles of the
Constitution
Separation of Powers
00Relationships among the
branches
Checks and Balances
00Balance of power among three
branches of government
Judicial Review
00Supremacy Clause
00Power of the judiciary
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Duties and responsibilities of the
American citizen
00Organization and role of
major U.S. political parties
00Nomination and electoral
process
00Right to vote - participation in
politics
Civil Liberties/Rights
00Bill of Rights
00Historical development of
liberties
00Balance between individual
rights vs. public interest
00Democracy - equality for all
00Influence of media
Standards
: CG 9, 10, 11
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Checks and Balances
00Bicameralism
00Legislation: How bill
becomes law
00Powers and Duties
00Organization
00Leadership
00Amendment Process
Democracy
00Individual Rights v.
Public Interest
00Special Interest Groups
Separation of Powers
00Legislative process
00Functions and influence of
various leadership roles on
legislative process
Standards: CG 16
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Standards: CG 17, 18
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Standards: CG 21, 22
Traditional Schedule: 2 weeks
Block Schedule: 1 week
Unit Five Focus:
Executive Branch
Unit Seven Focus:
State and Local
Government
Unit Six Focus:
Judicial Branch
Unit Eight Focus:
Criminal Justice
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Separation of Powers
00Bureaucracy
00Roles of President
00Functions of Cabinet
00Foreign Policy Tools
Limited Government
00Qualifications for a president
00Unwritten qualifications for a
president
Checks and Balances
00Impeachment
00Rule of Law
Popular Sovereignty
00Electoral college
00Direct vote
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Federalism
00Sharing power, revenue, and
services
00Structure of local and state
governments
Popular Sovereignty
00Direct Democracy: recall,
initiative, and referendum
Separation of Powers
00Power among local and state
governments
00Current leadership and their
obligation to their
constituency
Checks and Balances
00Power in the local branches of
government.
Standards: CG 12, 13, 14, 15, 20
Traditional Schedule:
Block Schedule:
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Separation of Powers
00Power/jurisdiction the courts
00Types of courts
Checks and Balances
00Supreme Court power to
interpret Constitution
Judicial Review
00Marbury v. Madison
00Balancing Activism and
Restraint
00Constitutionality of laws
Civil Liberties/Rights
00Supreme Court decisions
00Ideology and court opinions
Themes with Concepts/Topics:
Civil Liberties/Rights
00Balance between individual
liberties and public welfare
00Different types of defenses
00Due process
00Rights of the accused
Judicial Review
00Types of crimes
00Sentencing
00Appeals Process
2
American Government/Civics
Unit 1: Foundations of American Government
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is on the study of the political philosophies that influenced the
Founding Fathers in the writing of the Declaration of Independence. This unit also examines why countries
throughout the world develop different forms of government.
GPS Standards:
SSCG1 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political philosophies that shaped the development
of United States constitutional government.
a. Analyze key ideas of limited government and the rule of law as seen in the Magna Carta, the Petition of
Rights, and the English Bill of Rights.
b. Analyze the writings of Hobbes (Leviathan), Locke (Second Treatise on Government), and Montesquieu
(The Spirit of Laws) as they affect our concept of government.
SSCG2 The student will analyze the natural rights philosophy and the nature of government expressed in
the Declaration of Independence.
a. Compare and contrast the Declaration of Independence and the Social Contract Theory.
b. Evaluate the Declaration of Independence as a persuasive argument.
SSCG19 The student will compare and contrast governments that are unitary, confederal, and federal;
unitary, oligarchic, and democratic; and presidential and parliamentary.
3
Unit 1
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
The practical experience and writings of philosophers influence the development of
a new government.
00What major ideas from European political thinkers were adopted by the Founding
Fathers and how do these ideas affect our concept of government? (CG1, CG2,
CG3)
Countries throughout the world develop different types of governments.
00Why do countries throughout the world develop different forms of government?
(CG19)
4
American Government/Civics
Unit 2: The United States Constitution
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is on the structure of the U. S. Constitution. It focuses on the
dispersion of power through principles of popular sovereignty, federalism, separation of powers, and checks and
balances.
GPS Standards:
SSCG3 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the United States Constitution.
a. Explain the main ideas in the debate over ratification; include those in The Federalist.
b. Analyze the purpose of government stated in the Preamble of the United States Constitution.
c. Explain the fundamental principles upon which the United States Constitution is based; include the rule of
law, popular sovereignty, separation of powers, checks and balances, and federalism.
SSCG4 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the organization and powers of the national
government .
a. Describe the structure and powers of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
b. Analyze the relationship between the three branches in a system of checks and balances and separation of
powers.
SSCG5 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the federal system of government described in the
United States Constitution.
a. Explain the relationship of state governments to national government.
b. Define the difference between enumerated and implied powers.
c. Describe the extent to which power is shared.
d. Identify powers denied to state and national governments.
e. Analyze the ongoing debate that focuses on the balance of power between state and national governments.
f. Analyze the supremacy clause found in Article VI and the role of the U.S. Constitution as the "supreme law
of the land."
5
Unit 2
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
The power of the U.S. government is limited by the Constitution and the Bill of
Rights.
00How can a governmental system work effectively when it disperses power among
levels and branches of government?? (CG3, CG4, CG5)
6
American Government/Civics
Unit 3: Civic Responsibility
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is the study of the duties and
responsibilities of American citizens to participate in civic life by becoming informed
citizens and participating in the political process.
GPS Standards:
SSCG6 The student will demonstrate knowledge of civil liberties and civil rights .
a. Examine the Bill of Rights with emphasis on First Amendment freedoms.
b. Analyze due process of law expressed in the 5th and 14th Amendments.
c. Explain selective incorporation of the Bill of Rights.
d. Explain how government seeks to maintain the balance between individual liberties
and the public interest.
e. Explain every citizen's right to be treated equally under the law.
SSCG7 The student will describe how thoughtful and effective participation in civic
life is characterized by obeying the law, paying taxes, serving on a jury,
participating in the political process, performing public service, registering for
military duty, being informed about current issues, and respecting differing
opinions .
SSCG8 The student will demonstrate knowledge of local, state, and national
elections.
a. Describe the organization, role, and constituencies of political parties.
b. Describe the nomination and election process.
c. Examine campaign funding and spending.
d. Analyze the influence of media coverage, campaign advertising, and public opinion
polls.
e. Identify how amendments extend the right to vote.
7
Unit 3
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
A bill of rights guarantees fundamental individual rights to citizens.
00How does the government maintain balance between an individual's liberties and
the public interest? (CG6)
To participate effectively in civic life, American citizens need to participate in the
political process (voting), perform public service, be informed about current issues,
and respect the opinions of others.
00How can American citizens make a difference in their communities? (CG7)
Various groups influence American voters in local, state, and national elections.
00How do political parties, the media, and special interest groups influence the way
Americans vote? (CG8)
8
American Government/Civics
Unit 4: Legislative Branch
Elaborated Unit Focus: The unit focuses on the legislative branch of government. Emphasis
is placed on the powers and organization of the legislative branch and the role of lobbyists and
special interest groups in the legislative process.
GPS Standards:
SSCG9 The student will explain the differences between the House of Representatives
and the Senate, with emphasis on terms of office, powers, organization, leadership, and
representation in each house.
SSCG10 The student will describe the legislative process including the roles played by
committees and leadership.
a. Explain the steps in the legislative process.
b. Explain the function of various leadership positions within the legislature.
SSCG11 The student will describe the influence of lobbyists (business, labor,
professional organizations) and special interest groups in the legislative process.
a. Explain the function of lobbyists.
b. Describe the laws and rules that govern lobbyists.
c. Explain the function of special interest groups.
9
Unit 4
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
00How do lobbyists and special interest groups play a role in the development of
laws, rules, and regulations? (CG11)
00How is each house of Congress different from the other? (CG9)
10
American Government/Civics
Unit 5: Executive Branch
Elaborated Unit Focus: This unit focuses on the executive branch of government.
Emphasis is placed on the role of the executive branch in administering policy.
GPS Standards:
SSCG12 The student will analyze the various roles played by the President of the
United States; include Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, chief executive,
chief agenda setter, representative of the nation, chief of state, foreign policy leader,
and party leader.
SSCG13 The student will describe the qualifications for becoming President of the
United States.
a. Explain the written qualifications for President of the United States.
b. Describe unwritten qualifications common to past presidents.
SSCG14 The student will explain the impeachment process and its usage for elected
officials.
a. Explain the impeachment process as defined in the U.S. Constitution.
b. Describe the impeachment proceedings of Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton.
SSCG15 The student will explain the functions of the departments and agencies of
the federal bureaucracy .
a. Compare and contrast the organization and responsibilities of independent
regulatory agencies, government corporations, and executive agencies.
b. Explain the functions of the Cabinet.
SSCG20 The student will describe the tools used to carry out United States foreign
policy (diplomacy; economic, military, and humanitarian aid; treaties; sanctions;
and military intervention).
11
Unit 5
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
00How is the role of the executive branch different from the legislative and judicial
branches? (CG12, 20)
00How is the power of the executive checked by the Constitution and tradition?
(CG13, 14)
12
American Government/Civics
Unit 6: Judicial Branch
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is on the judicial branch of government.
Emphasis is placed on the structure of the courts and their role in maintaining the balance
of powers and protecting civil liberties.
GPS Standards:
SSCG16 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the operation of the federal
judiciary.
a. Explain the jurisdiction of the federal courts and the state courts.
b. Explain how John Marshall established the Supreme Court as an independent,
coequal branch of government through his opinions in Marbury v. Madison (judicial
review).
c. Describe how the Supreme Court decides cases.
d. Compare the philosophies of judicial activism and judicial restraint.
13
Unit 6
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
00How are the powers of the judicial branch unique among the three branches of
government? (CG16a, c)
00How does the principle of federalism work in the judicial branch?
Judicial review protects and extends constitutional rights.
00How have court decisions defined the Constitution and the civil liberties of
American citizens? (CG16b, d)
14
American Government/Civics
Unit 7: State and Local Government
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is the study of the powers, organization,
and responsibilities of the state government of Georgia and the various forms of local
government (town, city, county). Themes and concepts previously examined in Unit 1
are revisited as they apply to state and local governments.
GPS Standards:
SSCG17 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the organization and powers of
state and local government described in the Georgia Constitution.
a. Examine the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
b. Examine the structure of local governments with emphasis on county, city, and
town.
c. Identify current state and local officials.
d. Analyze the relationship among state and local governments.
e. Evaluate direct democracy by the initiative, referendum, and recall processes.
SSCG18 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the powers of Georgia's state
and local governments.
a. Examine the powers of state and local government.
b. Examine the sources of revenue received by each level of government.
c. Analyze the services provided by state and local government.
15
Unit 7
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
The powers and structure of the state government often reflect the powers and
structures of national governments.
00How is the state government of Georgia alike and different from the national
government of the United State? (CG 17)
Local governments are created to help carry out the responsibilities of the state
government.
00What is the function of local governments? (CG18)
00How does the relationship between local governments and the state government
benefit citizens? (CG18)
16
American Government/Civics
Unit 8: Criminal Justice
Elaborated Unit Focus: The focus of this unit is the study of crime and what happens to
individuals who commit criminal acts and become part of the criminal justice system.
Emphasis is placed on an individual's due process rights as they apply throughout the
criminal justice process.
GPS Standards:
SSCG21 The student will demonstrate knowledge of criminal activity.
a.
Examine the nature and causes of crimes.
b.
Explain the effects criminal acts have on their intended victims.
c.
Categorize different types of crimes.
d.
Explain the different types of defenses used by perpetrators of crime.
SSCG22 The student will demonstrate knowledge of the criminal justice process.
a.
Analyze the steps in the criminal justice process.
b.
Explain an individual's due process rights.
c.
Describe the steps in a criminal trial or a civil suit.
d.
Examine the different types of sentences a convicted person can receive.
17
Unit 8
Enduring Understandings and Unit Essential Questions
Individuals commit crimes for different reasons.
00Why do people commit crimes and what effects do these criminal acts have on
their intended victims? (CG21)
Due process rights are an essential part of the civil justice system in a democratic
society.
00Why are due process rights important to individuals accused of committing a
crime? (CG22)
18
American Government
Enduring Understandings Summary
Unit 1: Foundations of American Government
00The practical experience and writings of philosophers influence the development of
a new government
00Countries throughout the world develop different types of governments.
Unit 2: The United States Constitution
00The power of the U.S. government is limited by the Constitution and the Bill of
Rights.
Unit 3: Civic Responsibility
00A bill of rights guarantees fundamental individual rights to citizens.
00To participate effectively in civic life, citizens participate in the political process
(voting), perform public service, be informed about current issues, and respect the
opinions of others.
00Various groups influence voters in local, state, and national elections.
Unit 4: Legislative Branch
00Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
Unit 5: Executive Branch
00Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
Unit 6: Judicial Branch
00Each branch of government has its own unique powers and structure.
00Judicial review protects and extends Constitutional rights.
Unit 7: State and Local Government
00The powers and structure of the state government are similar to that of the national
government.
00Local governments are created to help carry out the responsibilities of the state
government.
Unit 8: Criminal Justice Process
00Individuals commit crimes for different reasons.
00Due process rights are an essential part of the civil justice system in a democratic
society.
19
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