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eLECTIONS State Standards - Maryland


MARYLAND SEA HOMEPAGE

MARYLAND VOLUNTARY CONTENT STANDARDS ALL

MARYLAND VOLUNTARY STANDARDS HIGH SCHOOL GOVERNMENT (PDF)


VOLUNTARY STATE CURRICULUM
HIGH SCHOOL
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

 1.0 CONTENT STANDARD: POLITICAL SCIENCE- Students will understand the historical development and current status of the fundamental concepts and processes of authority, power, and influence, with particular emphasis on the democratic skills and attitudes necessary to become responsible citizens.

CLG Expectation 1.1: The student will demonstrate understanding of the structure and functions of government and politics in the United States

1. The student will explain roles and analyze strategies individuals or groups may use to initiate change in governmental policy and institutions (1.1.4).

Assessment Limits:
  • Political parties, interest groups, lobbyists, candidates, citizens, and the impact of the media on elections, elected officials and public opinion
  • Referendum and initiative processes
    1. Explain how initiative, referendum, and recall are opportunities for individuals and groups to initiate change in state and local government policy
    2. Analyze the external factors that influence the law-making process including the roles of the media, lobbyists, Political Action Committees (PACs), special-interest groups, citizens and public opinion
    3. Analyze the role of the media, special-interest groups, and public opinion in influencing the policy and decisions of the executive branch
    4. Evaluate how the media, political parties, special-interest groups, lobbyists, Political Action Committees (PACs) influence public opinion and government policies
    5. Evaluate the reliability and influence of the media on elections, elected officials and public opinion
    6. Describe the roles of political parties in the United States and how they influence elections, elected officials and public opinion
    7. Describe how citizens, candidates, campaigns and campaign financing influence the political process in the United States
    8. Analyze the roles of participants in the election process including voting, contributing, and electioneering
    9. Analyze how citizens make informed decisions regarding candidates, issues, and policies Describe the importance of being informed on civic issues, volunteering and public service
    10. Analyze various methods that individuals or groups may use to influence laws and governmental policies including petitioning, letter writing and acts of civil disobedience