Northwest Collegiate and Technical Academy

Civic Literacy - Grade 10
Instructor: Mr. Shawn Fredericks
School: Northwest Collegiate and Technical Academy
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Course Overview:
The Civic Literacy course is designed to help students understand the principles and structures of
government and their role as active, informed citizens. The course will focus on the U.S. political system,
the Constitution, civil rights, responsibilities, and the importance of civic participation. Through
real-world examples, debates, and simulations, students will develop the skills necessary to engage in their
communities and the democratic process.

Units of Study:
Unit 1: Foundations of American Government
- Principles of democracy
- The Constitution and its significance
- Federalism: the division of powers between national and state governments
- Key founding documents (Declaration of Independence, Federalist Papers)
Unit 2: The Branches of Government
- The legislative branch: structure and function of Congress
- The executive branch: powers and responsibilities of the President
- The judicial branch: the court system and the role of the Supreme Court
- Checks and balances in action
Unit 3: Civil Liberties and Rights
- The Bill of Rights and individual freedoms
- Landmark Supreme Court cases (e.g., Brown v. Board of Education, Roe v. Wade)
- Civil rights movements and key figures (e.g., Martin Luther King Jr., Susan B. Anthony)
- Contemporary issues in civil rights (e.g., LGBTQ+ rights, voting rights)
Unit 4: Citizenship and Civic Responsibilities
- The naturalization process

- The responsibilities of citizenship (e.g., voting, jury duty, paying taxes)
- Civic engagement: how citizens influence government
- The role of media and information literacy in a democracy
Unit 5: Political Parties, Elections, and Voting
- The two-party system and third parties
- The electoral process and the significance of elections
- Campaigns, candidates, and political advertising
- Voter participation and barriers to voting
- Analysis of the 2024 Vice Presidential debate and upcoming election
Unit 6: State and Local Government
- Structure and function of state governments
- Local governments: counties, municipalities, and special districts
- Public policy at the state and local levels
- Citizen involvement in local government
Unit 7: Public Policy and the Economy
- How government makes and implements public policy
- The role of government in regulating the economy
- Government programs (e.g., Social Security, Medicare, welfare)
- The intersection of economics and public policy (e.g., minimum wage, healthcare)
Unit 8: International Relations and U.S. Foreign Policy
- The role of the U.S. in global affairs
- Key foreign policy challenges (e.g., diplomacy, trade, war)
- International organizations (e.g., the United Nations, NATO)
- The balance between national security and civil liberties
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Course Activities and Assessments:
-Class Discussions: Regular debates on current civic issues and political events, including key elections.
-Mock Government: Simulations of legislative sessions, mock elections, and court cases.
-Research Projects: In-depth studies on civil rights issues, Supreme Court cases, or public policies.
-Quizzes/Tests: Assessments to ensure comprehension of fundamental concepts.
-Community Engagement Project: Students will participate in a community-based project to apply civic
principles.

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Assignments:
All assignment due dates are final unless you are instructed otherwise. However, if you need to
speak with me about an assignment that was missed and you have a valid excuse, you need to
speak with me privately after class.

Projects:
At least one project per unit will be assigned. Information sheets for each project will be distributed. The
information sheets will include instructions and due dates.

Late Work Policy
All homework is due at the beginning of class, and any late work will be accepted with a point
deduction. 10 points will be deducted from the assignment’s grade for each day, up to 4 days,
late (1st day late = 10 points deducted, 2nd day late = 20 points, etc.). If an assignment is more
than 4 days late, the assignment will not be accepted (ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE REMOVED

AFTER THE FOURTH DAY). If you turn in projects or other major assignments late, they will
be accepted in the same way. You are encouraged to turn in assignments on time. Zeroes can be very
harmful to your grade and difficult to overcome.

Classroom Expectations and Learning Environment
In Mr. Shawn Fredericks' classroom, we strive to create a learning environment that is inclusive,
respectful, and conducive to both personal and academic growth. Below are the expectations and values
that will guide our classroom community:

Respect for All
Mutual respect is the foundation of our classroom. Every student has the right to express themselves and
contribute to discussions without fear of judgment or ridicule.
We will practice active listening and value diverse perspectives, fostering empathy and understanding of
others' viewpoints.

Mindfulness and Presence
Students are expected to be mentally present in class. This means being engaged, focused, and minimizing
distractions during lessons and activities.

Mindfulness exercises will be a regular part of our routine to help everyone stay centered and manage
stress effectively.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)

We emphasize the development of social-emotional skills, including self-awareness, responsible
decision-making, and relationship-building. These skills will be integrated into classroom activities and
daily interactions.

Students will be encouraged to reflect on their emotions and behaviors, practicing self-regulation and
empathy towards their peers.

Collaboration and Communication
Collaboration is key to a productive learning environment. Students will work together in groups,
participate in discussions, and engage in meaningful dialogue.
Effective communication involves both speaking thoughtfully and listening respectfully. We will support
one another in creating a classroom where every voice is heard.

Growth Mindset
Mistakes are part of the learning process. Students are encouraged to take risks, ask questions, and
approach challenges with a growth mindset.
Effort and perseverance are valued in this classroom, and students will be supported in achieving their
personal and academic goals.

Accountability and Responsibility
Students are expected to be accountable for their actions, complete assignments on time, and contribute
positively to the classroom environment.
Ownership of learning means taking responsibility for one’s work, behavior, and progress throughout
the course.

Mindfulness and Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) in the Classroom
In our classroom, mindfulness and social-emotional learning (SEL) are core components of the learning
experience. We believe that understanding and managing emotions, building positive relationships, and
practicing mindfulness contribute to both academic and personal growth.

Mindfulness Practices: Regular mindfulness exercises will be incorporated into the class to help students
stay focused, manage stress, and remain present in the moment. These practices will also help in
improving attention and emotional regulation, which are key to a successful learning experience.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): SEL will be woven into our lessons and classroom interactions, helping
students develop key skills such as self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making. Through activities, discussions, and group work,

students will learn how to effectively manage their emotions, set goals, and work collaboratively with their peers.

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Cell phones and other electronic devices Policy 7Upon arriving at class, please place your cell phone in the container. If you choose not to put it in the
bucket the expectation is that you put it on silent and if I see it I will give you warning and then escalate
from there with each infraction.

Contact Information:
-Email: frederickss@nw.halifax.k12.nc.us
-Office Hours: By appointment