Subject: Social Studies

Honors U.S. Government

Course Type: Honors High School

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Credits: 1.0

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Course Description

This course provides students with a practical understanding of the principles and procedures of government. The course begins by establishing the origins and founding principles of the American government. After a rigorous review of the Constitution and its Amendments, students investigate the development and extension of civil rights and liberties. Lessons also introduce influential Supreme Court decisions to demonstrate the impact and importance of constitutional rights. The course builds on this foundation by guiding students through the function of government today and the role of citizens in the civic process and culminates in an examination of public policy and the roles of citizens and organizations in promoting policy approaches.

Textbook: United States Government – © Excel Education Systems, Inc. - 2020

Course Objectives

Investigate the founding principles that guided the establishment of the U.S. government.

Analyze the civil rights and liberties that are granted to United States citizens.

Understand the structures and procedures of local, state, and federal governments.

Discover how you can participate in government by voting, running for office, meeting civic obligations, and petitioning your representatives.

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Course Contents

Module TitleModule Topic(s)
Political Theory/U.S. Constitution (America’s Foundation, The Founding Fathers, The Federalist Papers)
The Constitution (Limiting the Role of Government, Amending the Constitution, Freedoms Guaranteed by Bill of Rights)
The Federalist System (Checks and Balances, Federalism, Limits on National and State Governments)
Three Branches of Government (Structure/Functions of the Branches, Presidential Election Procedures, Court Cases and Guaranteed Rights)
Governmental Policies (Fiscal and Regulatory Policies, Government and Free Enterprise, Policies and their Effects)
The Political Process (Voting and Public Office, Political Parties/Electoral Process, Rights and Obligations of Citizens)

Recommended Prerequisites

Carnegie Credits Explained: Our Approach vs. Trimester Credits

Carnegie Credit System
Excel High School 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, Excel’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.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.

Accreditation You Can Trust

Recognized & Respected Nationwide

At Excel High School, we are proud to be regionally accredited by Cognia, along with additional accreditations from NCA, SACS, NWAC, and the Middle States Association. Our programs meet the same rigorous standards as public schools, giving you the confidence of earning a well-respected diploma.

Global Recognition for Our Accredited Diplomas

Excel High School’s regionally accredited diploma is accepted by colleges and universities around the world. With our recognized accreditation, you can confidently pursue higher education wherever your journey takes you.