Constitutional Law
Constitutional Law
HERO Class Syllabus for 2011-12
Course Description
In this course we will learn the ins and outs of the United States Constitution. Students will learn how and why our founders chose a constitutional republican government, be guided through a close reading of the Constitution, and then read the most important Supreme Court decisions interpreting the Constitution. Class discussion will incorporate current events and pending court issues. Upon completion, students will understand the structure of our government, the meaning of our rights, the important questions presented to the Supreme Court, the responsibilities of enlightened citizens, and the clashing philosophical viewpoints in constitutional interpretation.
Course Instructor Karen Betts Mielke, MD, JD
Course Text
Students are not required to purchase a textbook. This course will include some material from Constitutional Law for Enlightened Citizens by Michael P. Farris, esq. A pocket US Constitution will be supplied to each student by the teacher. Supreme Court opinions and assigned readings will be provided via photocopy, thus a photocopy fee will be assessed each semester.
Supplies
Notebook of choice
Pen or Pencil
Pocket Constitution (supplied by teacher)
Grading Information
Students are expected to come to class prepared for discussion, having read the assignment and prepared a brief of any cases being discussed. Students are also expected to actively participate in class discussion. Preparation and participation will be assessed for meeting or not meeting expectations. Understanding of objective information will be assessed with periodic quizzes, writing projects, semester exams, and in class contributions. Each semester, a writing project will be assigned, asking for explanation of a Constitutional principle, interpretation, and personal opinion. Grading of writing assignments will reflect the student’s effectiveness in communication, accuracy of factual information, and richness of thought in forming opinions.
