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Aside from whatever modifications I have to make due to (my) human error, this class should be ready to go. Look above for the proper syllabus and read it thoroughly. Email me your questions and I'll clarify what needs clarification.
Go to blackboard to familiarize yourself with the layout there - the first three quizzes are waiting for you, as is the first weekly written assignment. You'll see information about each on the syllabus, as well as on the column just to the right of this message. Again, ask me questions if this confuses you. The weekly schedule in the class is the same all semester, so once you get used to it, it should be easy to follow.
You'll also see information about the 1000 word critical review essay, as well as the reading assignment relevant to it. Note the posts below that talk about each book.
As with every semester, there are unique events occurring that will occupy much of the class' discussions. You'll note that I spend as much time, if not more, concentrating on them as I do the regular content of the class. This is because the purpose of learning the course's content is to help make sense of the day to day activities of government. The more the content makes sense to you, the more these activities should make sense as well.
Each week we will begin by reviewing news items that relate to that class' subject matter. I'll also try to explain how major events of the day fit into other subject matter we will cover - or have covered.
The goal is to make sure you can grasp what's up with all thins stuff and become a rational, engaged participant in the political process.
Good luck to all of us.
Kevin