Thursday, January 17, 2008

2301 Quiz 1 Spring 2008

The first 2301 quiz covers the first chapters of each of your textbooks, plus the Declaration of Independence which is at the back of your American Government textbook.

The purpose of the introductory lectures is to cover basic terminology so the first test will focus primarily on definitions. The point is to make sure that we can efficiently talk about government and politics. Pay close attention to the highlighted terms. Be clear about what "government," "politics," and "public policy" refer to plus related terms like "democracy."

The Texas textbook covers politics better than the American government does. Be especially prepared for questions about political culture. I wont ask many questions about the five principles of politics or the environment of Texas politics. Both are worth reading, but are less important than terminology at this point.

Be prepared for at least five questions about the Declaration of Independence. Understand the argument it makes, and how it makes it. Know the grievances. It wouldn't hurt to memorize as much as you can. Some questions will be fill in the blank.