Subject: Social Studies

U.S. Government

U.S. Government at Northgate Academy explores the Christian foundations of American political principles, focusing on the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and the balance of power within the three branches of government. Using the U.S. Government (2024) textbook, students analyze key documents, historical figures, and civic responsibilities through engaging visuals, reviews, and assessments. This course deepens students' understanding of how the nation’s founding ideals continue to shape governance and democracy.

Course Type: Standard High School

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

The U.S. Government course at Northgate Academy offers an immersive exploration into the Christian underpinnings of American political foundations, emphasizing the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the vision of limited government championed by the Founding Fathers. Through a detailed analysis of these cornerstone documents and the structure of the three branches of government, students gain a deep understanding of the principles guiding the United States. The course makes these concepts accessible and engaging with over 150 pictures and graphs that elucidate government processes and the critical role of citizens in a democracy. Additionally, profiles of great Americans and comprehensive section and chapter reviews further enrich students’ learning experience, illustrating how the U.S. government is designed to secure the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for its citizens.

Structured around the textbook U.S. Government (2024) by Excel Education Systems, this course sets clear objectives for learners to grasp the Christian foundation upon which the United States was established. Students will delve into the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the intricacies of the branches of government, fostering an appreciation for the balance of power and the civic responsibilities that sustain a healthy democracy. Through written assignments, quizzes, and a final exam, participants are encouraged to demonstrate their understanding of the material, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of U.S. government structures and their historical and moral bases. Northgate Academy’s U.S. Government course is not just an academic endeavor; it’s a journey into the heart of American civic life, offering insights into how the nation’s founding ideals continue to shape its governance and guide its citizens towards a more perfect union.

Textbook: U.S. Government. (2024). Excel Education Systems.

Course Objectives

Describe the historical, moral, and biblical principles that influenced the development of the American government and its foundational documents.

Describe the structure, functions, and powers of the U.S. federal government.

Explain the significance of federalism in dividing power between national and state governments.

Examine the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, including pathways to citizenship, civic engagement, and the role of government officials in upholding the law.

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Course Contents

Modules
A Nation Like No Other: America
One Nation, and Government Under God
The American Republic Takes Form
Exploring The Constitution of the United States
The Role of the Legislative Branch – Congress
The Role of the Executive Branch – The Presidency
The Growth of the Bureaucracy Under the Executive Branch
The Role of the Judicial Branch – The Federal Courts
Constitutional Amendments and The Bill of Rights
What is American Federalism?
The Powers of State and Local Government
Making a Difference as an American Citizen

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Northgate Academy follows the Carnegie Credit system, a widely recognized method of measuring student progress based on instructional hours. A single Carnegie credit reflects approximately 120 hours of coursework, typically completed over a full academic year.

Carnegie Credit vs. Trimester Credit
While Carnegie credits are awarded based on total hours over a year, trimester credits divide the school year into three terms. In a trimester system, students complete courses in shorter, intensive sessions, often earning partial credits (e.g., 0.33 or 0.5 per term). In contrast, Northgate’s use of Carnegie credits ensures students have ample time to engage deeply with the material and develop a well-rounded understanding at a consistent pace.