Friday, May 30, 2008

Final AP US GOV Update - Policy Project

Seniors,

Your final update for AP U.S. Government & Politics is a reminder about the Policy Project - the last assignment in the "gradebook".

To reiterate what we discussed in class:

1. Choose a general policy area corresponding to the policy chapters in the Wilson text (economic, environmental, social, etc.). Carefully read the chapter with an eye to how politics plays into the process of policy-making. The goal here is to enhance your understanding of why what seems the best policy isn't always what is enacted - politics affects everything!

2. Here's where you have nearly complete flexibility. Choose any specific contemporary policy issue related to your general policy area (e.g. carbon-reduction : environmental policy). This can be something that you noticed during the Current Events Blog Project or simply something about which you're interested. Research a little what is being done policy-wise about your issue.

3. Formulate and produce a statement of position. Essentially you're making a policy recommendation. Again, here you have wide latitude to say whatever you want in the way you want - the only requirement is that it appears on your blog site. It could be written, drawn, spoken (audio/video), whatever. It simply needs to make a policy recommendation. It must be substantive and I expect your recommendations will be robust. In "student-speak", it needs to be as substantial as you might make a statement of position essay in CritComp.

Due Date: I'll be checking your blog at the end of Senior Finals. Please have your policy statement posted by the end of the day on Friday 6/6. If you have questions about the project, email me.

It's been a pleasure working with you this year. All the best to you as you wrap up the year and move on to university study.

Mr. G.