Course Description:
Welcome to Economics/Government. This is WALC so we are doing things differently than the way they are usually done. Instead of learning about Government first and Economics second, we are studying them in conjunction with one another throughout the year. We will actually learn the basics of the economic system of the United States first and use our study and understanding of it as a framework for examining the government. Then we will explore how the two function together. There are two main ideas for why we are studying these topics this way: 1) the economic system and government of the United States are so intertwined that it is difficult to study them separately, and 2) the economic system is the larger system of which the government is only a part. Our WALC theme for this year is “Systems shape us/are shaped by us” and so we will be looking at how the economic and political systems of the United States have shaped the lives of the people, but also how the people have in turn influenced and even changed these systems. In particular, we will explore how these systems have influenced and determined our actual selves: our habits, personal beliefs, self-image, and actions. As always, we will use nature and environmental principles to illuminate our studies. These ideas and questions are the framework for this course. Please expect the kind of academic challenge that befits WALC seniors—more intense and demanding than you’ve ever known. But also expect to have some fun and be creative. This is your last year. Outdo yourself.

Learning Objectives:
By the end of this yea-rlong course you should know and be able to do the following:

• Understand the principles and structure of U.S. Capitalism and compare it to other economic systems.
  
• Understand and articulate the impact of U.S. Capitalism on the Environment.
  
• Understand the principles and structure of the U.S. Government and articulate how it influences and is influenced by U.S. Capitalism.
  
• Articulate the ways in which the U.S. Government serves to regulate, and otherwise perpetuate U.S. Capitalism
  
• Be financially, politically, culturally, and environmentally self-aware.
  
• Know how to navigate or “work” the economic system in order to achieve economic freedom and control as individuals or as communities.
  
• Know how to navigate or “work” the political system in order to obtain a political voice as individuals or as communities.
  
• Envision an economic/government system that provides economic freedom and control, as well as an equal political voice for all.
  
• Articulate and defend your point of view in written form or in debate. Be able to identify underlying assumptions and biases in others’ points of view as well as your own.
  

Course Expectations:
In order to succeed in this class you must please do the following in addition to the WALC Pathway Expectations:

• Be on time everyday.
  
• Have your textbook(s), notebook, binder, and supplies everyday.
  
• Complete all of your assignments on time.
  
• Develop a sense of responsibility for the success of your fellow classmates, a sense of loyalty for each other and your common struggle.
  
• Be respectful, cooperative, and reasonable while being critical.
  
• Be open to constructive criticism, new ideas, and activities.
  
• Fulfill the course baseline requirements listed below.
  

Course Outline:
The following are the central themes of the course in the order that we will address them.

• What is an Economy, what is Economics?
  
• Principles and structure of U.S. Capitalism
  
• American Democracy in its context of Capitalism
  
• Principles and structure of U.S. Government
  
• The effects of U.S. Capitalism on the Environment, Culture, and Self
  
• The interconnections between Economics and Government
  
• Personal and Community Economic Freedom and Political Power
  
• Alternative Economic and Political Systems
  

Evaluation and Grading:
All assignments are given a point value based on difficulty and effort required. Your grade depends what percent of the total points possible you are able to earn.
90—100% = A
80—89% = B
70—79% = C
60—69% = D
59% and below = F

As detailed in our Pathway Syllabus, all assignments fall under the following categories:

Baseline Requirements:
The following are Baseline Requirements specific to my class only. You must fulfill them in addition to the WALC-wide Baseline Requirements (You will receive a handout detailing each):

1. Capitol Hill Games Simulation/Project.
2. Create Your Own Business Project.
3. Debates
4. Question Papers
5. Economic Study #1 and #2
6. Notebooks and binders (checked every six weeks)
   

Parent and Student Signature:
Please make sure that both you and a parent or guardian have read and understand the syllabus for this class and what it entails before you sign this agreement. You and a parent/guardian must sign this form if you are to remain in this class.