Corresponding Courses:

UNITED STATES AND VIRGINIA GOVERNMENT
Credit: 1
Grade Level: 12
This course examines government in the United States . It provides an in-depth study of the fundamental ideas and principles embodied in our Constitution, and examines their practical application in each branch of the federal government. In addition, this course examines the government of Virginia , usually by studying the state constitution, and of local government in Montgomery County , usually by visiting the courthouse.
College prep students will be expected to prepare term papers, and to develop research and bibliographic skills. Papers will address some aspect of government which impacts their own lives. Students are encouraged to participate in the political life of their community by registering to vote and voting, by attending political rallies and meetings, by attending sessions of the School Board and Board of Supervisors, and by writing letters or speaking in public forums. Lastly, students in this class will plan and execute a community service project of some kind.

AP US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Credit: 1
Grade Level: 12
Fee Required
AP U.S. Government and Politics will provide students with an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States . This course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. It requires familiarity with the various institutions, group’s beliefs and ideas that constitute U.S. politics as students become acquainted with the variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes. The following topics are explored in depth: Constitutional underpinnings of US government, Political beliefs and behaviors, Political parties, interest groups, and mass media, Institutions of national government, Public policy and Civil rights and civil liberties
Students are also required to interpret and utilize basic data relevant to government and politics in sustained written argument.
The average AP exam fee is $82 and payment is required at the beginning of the class.