For the next few weeks, we will be digging deeper into the structures of the three branches of American government, starting with the one the Framers intended to be first, Congress.  Who is in Congress, how do they get there, what does Congress do, and how has the role of Congress changed over time are all leading questions for this week’s topics (and great starts to blog posts, btw).  

I apologize again for having to miss class last week- on one of the most important topics of the entire semester! My absence could not be helped, and I appreciate your understanding and grace. Please bring any questions you have about the reading (or other current issues related to civil rights) to class on Tuesday, and we’ll start off with a brief discussion of this essential topic. I’m still recovering, but by Wednesday, I hope to be all caught up. You should all have comments on the work you’ve posted so far (and, for those who have posted larger assignments, you’ll see the points you awarded yourself start to stack up in Brightspace). Speaking of stacking points, next week is our Congressional Simulation. It is one of the best learning experiences we have during the semester, but it requires you to prepare in advance so you can actually BE the person you are supposed to be in the simulation. By Wednesday, you will be able to see your assigned Congressperson, for whom you will complete the assignment before class on Tuesday October 22 so you can participate in the simulation during class. This is one of the few firm due dates in our class, and it’s firm because the simulation really doesn’t work unless you prepare a little in advance. So please do! (Of course, if you have an emergency and can’t make it that day, there are plenty of other assignments for you to complete).

Finally, a head’s up that our midterm exam (online, open-book, you can take it as many times as you like) will be open at the end of next week (October 25-27), so please block out some time now in your schedule (and set an alarm on your phone) so you remember to take it!