1. Basic Course Information
   1. Course description - Origin and development of the Texas constitution, structure and powers of state and local government, federalism and inter-governmental relations, political participation, the election process, public policy, and the political culture of Texas.
   2. Prerequisites - Student should have a proficiency in reading and writing.
2. Student Learning Outcomes. Upon successful completion of this course, students will: 
   1. Explain the origin and development of the Texas constitution. 
   2. Describe state and local political systems and their relationship with the federal government. 
   3. Describe separation of powers and checks and balances in both theory and practice in Texas. 
   4. Demonstrate knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of Texas government. 
   5. Evaluate the role of public opinion, interest groups, and political parties in Texas.
   6. Analyze the state and local election process. 
   7. Identify the rights and responsibilities of citizens. 
   8. Analyze issues, policies and political culture of Texas. 
      
3. Student Learning Outcomes
1. Students will evaluate different sides of a controversial political issue. We expect that at least 70% of the students will meet or exceed expectations for this outcome. Achievement will be measured using embedded question(s) on a departmental evaluation instrument.
2. Students will analyze government related sources (articles, documents, speeches, campaign material, etc.) for purpose, point of view, and reasoning. We expect that at least 70% of the students will meet or exceed expectations for this outcome. Achievement will be measured using embedded question(s) on a departmental evaluation instrument.
3. Students will differentiate between fact and opinion. We expect that at least 70% of the students will meet or exceed expectations for this outcome. Achievement will be measured using embedded question(s) on a departmental evaluation instrument.
4. Major Course Requirements
1. Exams:  There will be three to four major exams spaced throughout the semester. Exam questions may include any combination of the following: True/false, multiple choice, fill in the blanks, short answer, and essay.
2. Writing Assignments: There will be multiple writing assignments spaced throughout the semester.
3. Collaborative Exercises: There will be multiple collaborative exercises spaced throughout the semester. Each of these assignments will require you to work with your peers analyzing documents, articles, and other information relating to the study of government.
5. Information on Books and Other Course Materials
   1. Holder, F. (2017) A Trek through Texas Government. Preliminary Edition. San Diego: Cognella Academic Publishing. ISBN-13: 978-1-63189-539-5. 
6. Other Policies Please refer to the WTC Course Catalog for the following:
   1. Campus Calendar
   2. Final Exam schedule
   3. How to drop a class
   4. Withdrawal information
   5. Student Conduct/Academic Integrity
   6. Students with disabilities
7. Course Organization & Tentative Schedule*

*The above schedule, policies, procedures, and assignments in this course are subject to change.

Last Modified: August 15, 2016