Do you want to learn more about your local, state, and national government? Maybe you’ve even wondered how you could get involved in local government and make changes in your community. If so, this is the course for you. By definition, Social Studies courses have the primary goal of preparing active citizens, but this course will place special emphasis on what makes an active citizen and the many ways that all people can exercise their civic duties.
Students will engage in the study of civic processes, rules, and laws; examine civic and political institutions; and apply civic virtues and democratic principles. Students will also study the structure and function of federal, state, and local governments in the United States. Students will participate in a civics project which will allow them to practice affecting change in their communities and taking informed action.
About the Self-Paced Course Model
Self-Paced courses are comprehensive and designed for students who need or desire more flexibility in their academic schedule. VHS Learning teachers will regularly interact with students in asynchronous discussions, will host weekly office hours, and will invite students to monthly 1-on-1 progress meetings. Teachers will support students, answer questions, and provide feedback on work. Students will work independently on course activities; the course does not include class discussion assignments or other collaborative work.
This course is open enrollment; students may register and begin at any time. Students must maintain enrollment for a minimum of 6 weeks and have up to 20 weeks to complete all assignments in the course. It is expected that students will work for approximately 95 hours to complete this course, though the amount of time may vary depending on a student’s work habits and comfort with the material.