2001 / 2008 CURRICULUM FRAMEWORK

CIVICS & ECONOMICS

This is the crossover document that includes the 2008 revisions to the 2001 Curriculum Framework.

Words and phrases added in the 2008 revision are red.
Content deleted in 2008 is crossed out and gray.

Spring 2010 tests will cover the 2001 standards, but will include field-test items from the 2008 revision. The following year (spring 2011), tests will be based upon the 2008 revision.

 

STANDARD CE.2a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of American constitutional government by


a) explaining the fundamental principles of consent of the governed, limited government, rule of law, democracy, and representative government;

Fundamental political principles define and shape American constitutional government.

What are the fundamental political principles that have shaped government in the United States?

Fundamental political principles

  • Consent of the governed—People are the source of any and all governmental power.
  • Limited government—Government is not all-powerful and may do only those things people have given it the power to do.
  • Rule of law—The government and those who govern are bound by the law.
  • Democracy—In a democratic system of government the people rule.
  • Representative government—In a representative system of government people elect public officeholders to make laws and conduct government on their behalf.


STANDARD CE.2b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of American constitutional government by

 

b) explaining the significance of the charters of the Virginia Company of London, the Virginia Declaration of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation, the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and the Constitution of the United States of America, including the Bill of Rights;

American constitutional government is founded on concepts articulated in earlier documents, including the
charters of the Virginia Company of London, the
Virginia Declaration of Rights, the
Declaration of Independence, the
Articles of Confederation, and the
Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom.

Influence of earlier documents on the Constitution of the United States of America

  • Charters of the Virginia Company of London
    • − Rights of Englishmen guaranteed to colonists
  • The Virginia Declaration of Rights
    • − Served as a model for the Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the United States of America
  • Declaration of Independence
    • − Stated grievances against the king of Great Britain
    • − Declared the colonies’ independence from Great Britain
    • − Affirmed “certain unalienable rights” (life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness)
    • − Established the idea that all people are equal under the law
  • Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom
    • − Freedom of religious beliefs and opinions
  • Articles of Confederation
    • − Established the first form of national government for the independent states
    • − Maintained that major powers resided with individual states
    • − Weakness of central government (e.g., no power to tax and enforce laws)—Led to the writing of the Constitution of the United States of America
  • Constitution of the United States of America, including the Bill of Rights
    • − Establishes the structure of the United States government
    • − Guarantees equality under the law with majority rule and the rights of the minority protected
    • − Affirms individual worth and dignity of all people
    • − Protects the fundamental freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition


STANDARD CE.2c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of American constitutional government by

 

c) identifying the purposes for the Constitution of the United States of America as stated in its Preamble;

The preamble of a constitution sets forth the goals and purposes to be served by the government.

What are the purposes identified in the Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America?

The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America expresses the reasons the constitution was written.

The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States of America begins, “We the people,” which establishes that the power of government comes from the people.

    Purposes of U.S. government

  • To form a more perfect union
  • To establish justice
  • To ensure domestic peace tranquility
  • To provide for the common defense
  • To promote the general welfare
  • To preserve the blessings of liberty

STANDARD CE.2d (Old CE.6d)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the foundations of American constitutional government by

 

d) identifying the procedures for amending the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States.

The Constitution of the United States ofAmerica defines the process by which formal changes are made to the document.

The constitutions of Virginia and the United States can be amended through a process outlined in the constitutions.


The Virginia constitution has been rewritten several times.

How can the Constitution of the United States be amended?

Constitution of the United States

The amendment process is complex; to date, there are 27 amendments to the Constitution of the United States.

Amendment process:

  • Proposal - action by Congress or convention
  • Ratification - by the states

How can the Constitution of Virginia be amended?

    Constitution of Virginia

  • Proposal - action by General Assembly or convention
  • Ratification - by voters of Virginia

STANDARD CE.3a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of citizenship and the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens by


a) describing the processes by which an individual becomes a citizen of the United States;

A citizen is an individual with certain rights and duties under a government and who, by birth or by choice, owes allegiance to that government.

How does an individual become a citizen?

The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America defines citizenship:
“All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and the state wherein they reside.”

    Means of obtaining citizenship

  • Birth
  • Naturalization

    • Immigration and naturalization, particularly in the twentieth century, have led to an increasingly diverse society.


    To become a citizen through naturalization, a person must demonstrate knowledge of American history and principles and the ability to read, speak, and write words in ordinary usage in the English language.



STANDARD CE.3b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of citizenship and the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens by

b) describing the First Amendment freedoms of religion, speech, press, assembly, and petition, and the rights guaranteed by due process and equal protection of the laws;

The Constitution of the United States of America establishes and protects the citizens’ fundamental rights and liberties.

Few rights, if any, are considered absolute.

What fundamental rights and liberties are guaranteed in the First and Fourteenth Amendments to the Constitution of the United States of America?

First Amendment freedoms

  • Religion—Government may not establish an official religion, nor endorse, or unduly interfere with the free exercise of religion.
  • Speech—Individuals are free to express their opinions and beliefs.
  • Press—The press has the right to gather and publish information, including that which criticizes the government.
  • Assembly—Individuals may peacefully gather.
  • Petition—Individuals have the right to make their views known to public officials.

Fourteenth Amendment

  • Extends the due process protection to actions of the states

STANDARD CE.3c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of citizenship and the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens by

c) describing the duties of citizenship, including obeying the laws, paying taxes, defending the nation, and serving in court;

For government to be effective, citizens must fulfill their civic duties.

What duties are expected of all citizens?

Duties of responsible citizens

  • Obey laws
  • Pay taxes
  • Serve in the armed forces if called
  • Serve on a jury or as a witness in court

Citizens who choose not to fulfill these civic duties face legal consequences.



STANDARD CE.3d

The student will demonstrate knowledge of citizenship and the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens by

d) examining the responsibilities of citizenship, including registering and voting, communicating with government officials, participating in political campaigns, keeping informed about current issues, and respecting differing opinions in a diverse society;

A basic responsibility of citizenship is to contribute to the common good.

What are the ways individuals demonstrate responsible citizenship?

Civic responsibilities are fulfilled by choice; they are voluntary.

Responsibilities of citizens

  • Register and vote
  • Hold elective office
  • Influence government by communicating with government officials
  • Serve in voluntary, appointed positions
  • Participate in political campaigns
  • Keep informed regarding current issues
  • Respect others' rights to an equal voice in government


STANDARD CE.3e

The student will demonstrate knowledge of citizenship and the rights, duties, and responsibilities of citizens by

e) evaluating how civic and social duties address community needs and serve the public good.

A democratic society requires the active participation of its citizens.

In what ways do citizens participate in community service?

Ways for citizens to participate in community service

  • Volunteer to support democratic institutions (e.g., League of Women Voters).
  • Express concern about the welfare of the community as a whole (e.g., environment, public health and safety, education).
  • Help to make the community a good place to work and live (e.g., by becoming involved with public service organizations, tutoring, volunteering in nursing homes).


STANDARD CE.4a,b,c,d,e,f,g

The student will demonstrate knowledge of personal character traits that facilitate thoughtful and effective participation in civic life by

a) practicing trustworthiness and honesty;
b) practicing courtesy and respect for the rights of others;
c) practicing responsibility, accountability, and self-reliance;
d) practicing respect for the law;
e) practicing patriotism. ;
f) practicing decision-making;
g) practicing service to the school and/or local community.

Thoughtful and effective participation in civic life depends upon the exercise of good citizenship.

How do individuals demonstrate thoughtful and effective participation in civic life?

    Personal traits of good citizens

  • Trustworthiness and honesty
  • Courtesy and respect for the rights of others
  • Responsibility, accountability, and self-reliance
  • Respect for the law
  • Patriotism
  • Participant in the school and/or local community
  • Informed voter

    Effective participation in civic life can include:

  • Formulating questions
  • Analyzing information from a variety of sources
  • Expressing a position
  • Devising and implementing a plan

Practicing thoughtful decision-making in personal, financial and civic matters (e.g. voting and civic issues)



STANDARD CE.5a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

a) describing the functions of political parties;

Political parties play a key role in government and provide opportunities for citizens to participate in the political process.

What roles do political parties play in the American political process?

Functions of political parties

  • Recruiting and nominating candidates
  • Educating the electorate about campaign issues
  • Helping candidates win elections
  • Monitoring actions of officeholders


STANDARD CE.5b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

b) comparing the similarities and differences of political parties;

A two-party system characterizes the American political process.


Although third parties rarely win elections, they play an important role in public politics.

How are the major political parties similar, and how do they differ?

    Similarities between parties

  • Organize to win elections
  • Influence public policies
  • Reflect both liberal and conservative views
  • Define themselves in a way that wins majority support by appealing to the political center

    • Differences between parties

  • Stated in a party's platform and reflected in campaigning

How do third parties differ from the two major parties?

    Third parties

  • Introduce new ideas or press for a particular issue
  • Often revolve around a political personality (e.g., Theodore Roosevelt)

STANDARD CE.5c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

c) analyzing campaigns for elective office, with emphasis on the role of the media;

Voters evaluate information presented in political campaigns to make reasoned choices among candidates.

The media plays an important role in the political process.

How do citizens make informed choices in elections?

    Strategies for evaluating campaign speeches, literature, and advertisements for accuracy

  • Separating fact from opinion
  • Detecting bias
  • Evaluating sources
  • Identifying propaganda

How does the media play a role in the political process?

    Mass media roles in elections

  • Identifying candidates
  • Emphasizing selected issues
  • Writing editorials, creating political cartoons, publishing op-ed pieces
  • Broadcasting different points of view

STANDARD CE.5d

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

d) examining the role of campaign contributions and costs;

Running for political office is expensive.

How has the high cost of getting elected changed campaigning for public office?

    Rising campaign costs

  • Require candidates to conduct extensive fund-raising activities
  • Limit opportunities to run for public office
  • Give an advantage to wealthy individuals who run for office
  • Encourage the development of political action committees (PACs)
  • Give issue-oriented special interest groups increased influence

    Campaign finance reform

  • Rising campaign costs have led to efforts to reform campaign finance laws.
  • Limits exist on the amount individuals may contribute to political candidates and campaigns.


STANDARD CE.5e

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

e) describing voter registration and participation;

Voting is a basic responsibility of citizenship.


Voter registration is required before a citizen may vote.

The number of citizens who register and vote is related to how important election issues are to citizens.

What are the requirements for voter registration in Virginia?

Only citizens who register can participate in primary and general elections.

    Qualifications to register to vote in Virginia

  • Citizen of the United States
  • Resident of Virginia and precinct
  • 18 years of age by day of general election

    • How to register in Virginia

  • In person at the registrar's office, at the Division of Motor Vehicles, or at other designated sites
  • By mail application

Registration is closed 29 days before elections.

What factors influence voter turnout and registration?

    Factors in predicting which citizens will vote

  • Education
  • Age
  • Income

    • Why citizens fail to vote

  • Lack of interest
  • Failure to register

    • The percentage of voters who participate in presidential elections is usually greater than the percentage of voters who participate in state and local elections.


    Every vote is important.


STANDARD CE.5f

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

f) describing the role of the Electoral College in the election of the president and vice president;

The Electoral College process is used to select the President and Vice President of the United States.

How does the Electoral College select the President and Vice President of the United States?

Electoral College process

  • The slate of electors for each state is chosen by popular vote.
  • Most states have a winner take all system.
  • The electors meet to vote for President and Vice President.
  • The winner-take-all system leads to the targeting of large states for campaigning, although candidates must pay attention to small states whose electoral votes may make the difference in tight elections.

The number of electors of each state is based on the state’s Congressional representation.


The requirements for a majority vote to win in the Electoral College favors a two-party system.



NEW STANDARD CE.5g

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the political process at the local, state, and national levels of government by

g) participating in simulated local, state and/or national elections.

All citizens can learn the importance of the individual’s participation in the political process either through direct involvement in campaigns or simulations.

How can students under 18 participate in the democratic process?

    Student participation in the democratic process can include:

  • participating in campaigns
  • participating in classroom and online simulations.

NEW STANDARD CE.6a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the national level by

a) describing the structure and powers of the national government;

The Constitution of the United States defines the structure and powers of the national government.

The powers held by government are divided between the national government in Washington, D.C., and the governments of the 50 states.

What is the structure of the government as set out in the United States Constitution?

The powers held by government are divided between the national government in Washington, D.C., and the governments of the 50 states.

Legislative, executive, and judicial powers of the national government are distributed among three distinct and independent branches of government.



What are the powers of the national government?

The Executive branch:

  • The President of the United States is the Chief Executive Officer of the nation
  • Executes the law of the land
  • Prepares the annual budget for congressional action
  • Appoints cabinet officers, ambassadors, and federal judges
  • Administers the federal bureaucracy

    • The Judicial branch consists of the courts:

  • The Supreme Court is the highest court in the land
  • The Supreme Court exercnises the power of judicial review
  • The federal courts try cases involving federal law ad questions involving interpretation of the Constitution of the United States

    The Legislative branch:

  • The Congress is a bicameral legislature consisting of the House of Representatives (435 members based upon population) and the Senate (100 members, 2 per state)
  • Makes the laws of the nation
  • Approves the annual budget
  • Confirms presidential appointments
  • Raises revenue through taxes and other levies
  • Regulates interstate and foreign trade
  • Declares war

NEW STANDARD CE.6b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the national level by

b) explaining the principle of separation of powers and the operation of checks and balances;

The powers of the national government are separated among three branches of the government in ways that limit any one branch from abusing its power.

How do the separation of powers and the system of checks and balances protect against an abuse of power by any one branch of the national government?

Separation of Powers--

The Constitution of the United States in Articles I, II, and III defines the powers of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the national government.

Checks and Balances--

Each one of the three branches of the national government limits the exercise of power by the other two branches.

    Legislative Branch

    The Congress checks the President when legislators

  • Override Presidential vetoes
  • Impeach and convict a President

    • The Congress checks the courts when legislators

  • Confirm or refuse to confirm judges/justices
  • Impeach and convict judges/justices

    • Executive Branch

    The President checks Congress when the President

  • Proposes and advocates for legislation
  • Prepares an annual budget for Congress to approve
  • Convenes a special session of Congress
  • Vetoes legislation Congress has passed
    • The President checks the courts when the President
  • Nominates judges/justices

    • Judicial Branch

    The courts check Congress when judges/justices
  • Declare acts of Congress to be unconsitutional
    • The courts check the President when judges/justices
  • Declare executive actions to be unconstitutional

STANDARD CE.6c (old CE.7a)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the national level by how public policy is made at the local, state, and national levels of government by

c) explaining and/or simulating the lawmaking process;

Officials who are elected to serve in the national legislatures make laws.


Laws are made by Congress.


All citizens can learn the importance of the individual’s participation in the policymaking process through direct participation and simulations.

How does the Virginia General Assemblyand Congress make laws?

    The lawmaking process in Congress

  • Introducing a bill by a Senator or Representative
  • Working in committees
  • Debating on the floor
  • Voting on a bill by both houses
  • Signing the bill into law by the President or governor

Which branch of the national government has the power to pass laws?

Legislative powers

  • Expressed (specifically listed in the Constitution of the United States)
  • Implied (used to carry out expressed powers)

Bicameral:
Having two houses(e.g., the Senate and the House of Representatives)
The Virginia General Assembly and theUnited States Congress are bicameral legislatures.

Elected officials write laws and take action in response to problems or issues.

Individuals and interest groups help shape legislation.

The formal powers of Congress are limited by the Constitution of the United States.

Students should practice the legislative process through direct involvement or simulations.

STANDARD CE.6d (old CE.7b)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how public policy is made at the local, state, and national levels of government by the American constitutional government at the national level by

d) describing the roles and powers of the executive branch.

The executive branch plays a key role in the policymaking process.


Presidential power is broad in both domestic and foreign affairs, but there are limits on what the President can and cannot do.

What are the roles and powers of the executive branch at the state and national level?

    Ways the executive branch influences policymaking

  • Proposing legislation in an annual speech to Congress (State of the Union Address) or state legislature (State ofthe Commonwealth Address)
  • Appealing directly to the people
  • Approving or vetoing legislation
  • Appointing officials who carry out the laws

    • Cabinet departments, agencies, and regulatory groups interpret and execute the laws help with carrying out laws.

    The powers of the executive branch are defined in the Constitution of the United States of America and the Constitution of Virginia.

    The executive branch at the state and national levels carries out the law.

What are the roles and power of the President?

    The President exercises power as:

  • Chief of State: Ceremonial head of the government
  • Chief Executive: Head of the executive branch of government
  • Chief Legislator: Proposer of the legislative agenda
  • Commander-in-Chief: Head of the nation’s armed forces
  • Chief Diplomat: Architect of American foreign policy
  • Chief of Party: Leader of the political party that controls the executive branch
  • Chief Citizen: Representative of all of the people

    • Presidential power has grown in the years since the Constitution was ratified.


NEW STANDARD CE.7a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the state level by

a) describing the structure and powers of the state government;

The form of government of the Commonwealth of Virginia is established by the Virginia Constitution.


Legislative, executive, and judicial powers are separated at the state level of government.

What is the structure of the state government?

The Virginia Constitution distributes power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the state government.


What are some of the powers of the three branches of state government?

    Executive Branch:

  • The executive power is exercised by the Governor who is elected for a four-year term of office.
  • The Governor appoints members of his cabinet, who oversee specific functions of government.
  • The Lieutenant Governor and the Attorney General are executive branch officers who are elected for a four- year term of office.

    Legislative branch:

  • The legislative branch is the General Assembly, a bicameral (two chambers) legislature - the House of Delegates and the Virginia Senate - that meets annually for a fixed number of days.

    • Judicial branch:

    The judicial power is exercised by a court system that consists of four levels of courts:

  • Supreme Court
  • Court of Appeals
  • Circuit courts
  • District courts and juvenile and domestic relations courts

    • There is also a small claims court.


STANDARD CE.7b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the state level by

b) explaining the relationship of state governments to the national government in the federal system;

The Constitution of the United States of America establishes the principle of federalism, which is the division of power between the states and the national government.

The expansion of national powers into areas traditionally reserved to the states has altered the relationship of states to the national government.

How does the Constitution of the United States of America outline powers divided and shared between the national and state governments?

The Constitution of the United States of America establishes a federal form of government in which the national government is supreme.

The powers not given to the national government by the Constitution of the United States of America are reserved to the states.


The Constitution of the United States of America denies powers to both the national and state governments.

Primary responsibilities of each level of government

  • National - Conducts foreign policy, regulates commerce, and provides for the common defense
  • State - Promotes public health, safety, and welfare

    • Tensions exist when federal mandates require state actions without adequate funding


STANDARD CE.7c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the state level by

c) explaining and/or simulating the lawmaking process;

Members of the Virginia General Assembly are elected to make laws.

All citizens can learn the importance of the individual’s participation in the policymaking process through direct participation and simulations.

How does the Virginia General Assembly make laws?

    The lawmaking process in the Virginia General Assembly includes:

  • Proposing a bill
  • Working in committees
  • Debating on the floor
  • Voting on a bill by both houses
  • Signing the bill into law by the Governor

Elected officials write laws and take action in response to problems or issues.

Individuals and interest groups help shape legislation.

    The primary issues in the legislative process at the state level concern:

  • Education - to promote an informed and engaged citizenry (i.e., establish minimum standards for local schools)
  • Public health - to promote and protect the health of its citizens (i.e., fund health benefits)
  • Environment - to protect natural resources (i.e., improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay)
  • State Budget - to approve a biennial (two year) budget prepared by the Governor
  • Levying and collecting taxes

STANDARD CE.7d

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the state level by


d) describing the roles and powers of the executive branch and regulatory boards.

The executive branch enforces the laws and plays a key role in the policymaking process.

What are the roles and powers of the executive branch at the state level?

    The Governor of Virginia exercises the formal powers granted by the Virginia Constitution.

    In carrying out both the formal and informal powers of the office, the Governor fills several roles including:

  • Chief of State
  • Chief Legislator
  • Chief Administrator
  • Party Chief
  • Commander-in-Chief

    Cabinet secretaries and departments, agencies, commissions, and regulatory boards:

  • Administer laws
  • Enforce the laws
  • Regulate aspects of business and the economy
  • Provide services

STANDARD CE.8a

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the local level by


a) describing the structure and powers of the local government;

Local governments in Virginia are political subdivisions created by the General Assembly.

What are the units of local government in Virginia?

The units of local government in Virginia are counties, towns, and cities. Local governments exercise legislative, executive, and judicial powers.

 

All Virginia counties have an elected Board of Supervisors that exercises legislative powers, enacting ordinances (local laws) and adopting an annual budget.

 

All Virginia counties have an elected or appointed School Board that oversees the operation of the K-12 public schools in the county.

 

All Virginia towns have an elected Town Council that exercises legislative powers, enacting ordinances and adopting the town's annual budget. A mayor is elected either by the voters or the Town Council members.

 

Which powers do local government exercise?

Virginia local governments exercise defined and limited powers, including the power to

  • enforce state and local laws
  • promote public health
  • protect public safety
  • educate children
  • protect the environment
  • regulate land use
  • levy and collect taxes

Which officials are locally elected?

All Virginia cities have an elected City Council that exercises legislative powers, enacting ordinances and adopting an annual budget. A mayor is elected by the voters or the City Council members.

All Virginia cities/counties have an elected or appointed School Board that oversees the operation of the K-12 public schools in the city/county.


In Virginia counties, towns, and cities a manager may be hired by the elected legislative branch to oversee the operations of the local government.

In every Virginia locality, courts resolve judicial disputes. Judges of the circuit courts, district courts, juvenile and domestic relations courts, and small claims courts hear cases in each locality.

The Virginia Constitution requires that voters in every locality elect a sheriff, a clerk of the circuit court, a commissioner of revenue, and a treasurer.


STANDARD CE.8b

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the local level by

b) explaining the relationship of local government to the state government;

The authority of local governments in Virginia is derived from the state.

What is the relationship between the state and local governments?

All powers of the local government are given to them by the Constitution of Virginia and acts by the General Assembly.

Not all counties and cities are given the same powers.


Cities have charters and their powers are listed in the city charter.


STANDARD CE.8c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the American constitutional government at the local level by

c) explaining and/or simulating the lawmaking process.

Counties, cities, and towns adopt and enforce ordinances to provide services for their residents.

How do localities enact ordinances?

An elected Board of Supervisors is responsible for passing laws (ordinances) for the county.


An elected council is the local legislative body in independent cities and incorporated towns.

Individuals have the greatest influence on the decisions made by local government officials.


All citizens can learn the importance of the individual’s participation in the law-making process through direct participation and simulations.


STANDARD CE.9a (old CE.7c)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how public policy is made at the local, state, and national levels of government by

a) examining the impact of the media on public opinion and public policy

The media informs policymakers and influences public policy.

What influence does the media have on public policy and policymakers?

    Ways media play an important role in setting the public agenda

  • Focusing public attention on selected issues
  • Offering a forum in which opposing viewpoints are communicated
  • Holding government officials accountable to the public

    • Government officials use the media to communicate with the public.


STANDARD CE.9b (old CE.7d)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how public policy is made at the local, state, and national levels of government by

b) describing how individuals and interest groups influence public policy;

Individuals and interest groups influence public policy.

How do individuals and interest groups influence policymakers?

Ways individuals influence public policy

  • Participating in politics (voting, campaigning, seeking office)
  • Expressing opinions (lobbying, demonstrating, writing letters
  • Joining interest groups

    Terms to know

    Lobbying: Seeking to influence legislators to introduce or vote for or against a bill

Ways interest groups influence public policy

  • Identifying issues
  • Making political contributions
  • Lobbying government officials


STANDARD CE.9c

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how public policy is made at the local, state, and national levels of government by

c) describing the impact of international issues and events on local decision making.

Local governments may be required to formulate, adopt, and implement public policies in response to international issues and events.

Which international issues and events would require local government officials to act?

International issues and events that would require policy decisions by local government officials could include the following

  • Responding to public health concerns
  • Planning for the public safety in the event of an act of terrorism
  • Preparing economic development policies in response to the emerging global economy
  • Implementing policies to protect the environment, e.g., wildlife conservation.

STANDARD CE.10a (old CE.8a)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the judicial systems established by the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States of America by

a) describing the organization and jurisdiction of federal and state courts .of the United States judicial system as consisting of state and federal courts with original and appellate jurisdiction;

The judicial function is exercised in a dual court system, which consists of state courts and federal courts.

How are federal courts organized, and what jurisdiction does each exercise?

    The United States has a separate court system whose organization and jurisdiction are derived from the Constitution of the United States and federal laws.

    U.S. Supreme Court

  • Justices/no jury
  • Jurisdiction: Appellate and Limited Original
    • U.S. Court of Appeals
  • Judges/no jury
  • Jurisdiction: Appellate

    • U.S. District Court

  • Judges with juries
  • Jurisdiction: Original



Magistrates issue search warrants, subpoenas, arrest warrants, and summons and set bail.

How are state courts organized, and what jurisdiction does each exercise?

    Virginia, like each of the other 49 states, has its own court system whose organization and jurisdiction are derived from Virginia’s constitution and state laws.

    Virginia Supreme Court

  • Justices/no jury
  • Court of final appeal (Appellate jurisdiction)
  • Limited original jurisdiction

    • Court of Appeals of Virginia

  • Judges/no jury
  • Appellate jurisdiction reviews decisions of from circuit courts

    • Circuit Court

  • Judge and jury
  • Original jurisdiction for felony criminal cases and for certain civil cases
  • Appellate jurisdiction from district courts

    • General District Court and
    Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

  • Judge/no jury
  • Original jurisdiction of misdemeanors in civil cases generally involving lower dollar amounts and original jurisdiction in juvenile and family cases

STANDARD CE.10b (old CE.8b)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the judicial systems established by the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States of America by

b) describing the exercise of judicial review;

The power of judicial review is an important check on the legislative and executive branches of government

What is judicial review?

The supreme courts of the United States and Virginia determine the constitutionality of laws and acts of the executive branch of government. This power is called judicial review.


Marbury v. Madison established the principle of judicial review at the national level.


The Constitution of the United States of America is the supreme law of the land.


State laws must conform to the Virginia and United States constitutions.


STANDARD CE.10c (old CE.8c)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the judicial systems established by the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States of America by

c) comparing and contrasting civil and criminal cases;

Courts resolve two kinds of legal conflicts—
civil and criminal.

How are criminal and civil cases similar and different?

Criminal law

In a criminal case, a court determines whether a person accused of breaking the law is guilty or not guilty of a misdemeanor or a felony.

    Procedure for criminal cases

  • A person accused of a crime may be arrested if the police have probable cause
  • The accused may be committed to jail or released on bail
  • The case proceeds to an arraignment where probable cause is reviewed, the defendant may be appointed an attorney, and a plea is entered
  • A court date is set and a trial is conducted
  • A guilty verdict may be appealed

    Civil law

    In a civil case, a court settles a disagreement between two parties to recover damages or receive compensation.

    Procedure for civil cases

  • The plaintiff files a complaint to recover damages or receive compensation
  • Cases can be heard by judge or jury
  • Cases can be appealed

STANDARD CE.10d (old CE.8d)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the judicial systems established by the Constitution of Virginia and the Constitution of the United States of America by

d) explaining how due process protections seek to ensure justice.

The right to due process of the law is outlined in the 5th and 14th Amendments to the Constitution of the United States of America.

How do the due process protections ensure justice?

    Due process protections

  • 5th Amendment—Prohibits the national government from acting in an unfair manner
  • 14th Amendment—Prohibits state and local governments from acting in an unfair manner

Terms to know

Due process of law: The constitutional protection against unfair governmental actions and laws


The Supreme Court has extended the due process clauses to protect the guarantees of the Bill of Rights.



STANDARD CE.11a (old CE.9a)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how economic decisions are made in the marketplace by

a) applying the concepts of scarcity, resources, choice, opportunity cost, price, incentives, supply and demand, production, and consumption;

People make choices about how to use limited resources, decide the ownership of resources, and structure markets for the distribution of goods and services.

How do people deal with scarcity, resources, choice, opportunity cost, price, incentives, supply and demand, production, and consumption?

Scarcity

Scarcity is the inability to satisfy all wants at the same time. All resources and goods are limited. This requires that choices be made.

Resources

Resources are factors of production that are used in the production of goods and services. Types of resources are natural, human, capital, and entrepreneurship.

Choice

Choice is selecting an item or action from a set of possible alternatives. Individuals must choose/make decisions about desired goods and services because these goods and services are limited.

Opportunity Cost

Opportunity cost is what is given up when a choice is made—the highest valued alternative forgone. Individuals must consider the value of what is given up when making a choice.

Price

Price is the amount of money exchanged for a good or service. Interaction of supply and demand determines price. Price determines who acquires goods and services.

Incentives

Incentives are things that incite or motivate. Incentives are used to change economic behavior.

Supply and demand

Interaction of supply and demand determines price. Demand is the amount of a good or service that consumers are willing and able to buy at a certain price. Supply is the amount of a good or service that producers are willing and able to sell at a certain price.

Production

Production is the combining of human, natural, capital, and entrepreneurship resources to make goods or provide services. Resources available and consumer preferences determine what is produced.

Consumption

Consumption is using goods and services. Consumer preferences and price determine what is purchased.



STANDARD CE.11b (old CE.9b)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how economic decisions are made in the marketplace by

b) comparing the differences among, traditional, free market, command, and mixed economies.

Every country must develop an economic system to determine how to use its limited productive resources.


The key factor in determining the type of economy is the extent of government involvement. in economic decision making.

What are the basic economic questions all societies must answer?

The Three Basic Questions of Economics

    Each type of economy answers the three basic questions differently.

  • What will be produced?
  • Who will produce it?
  • For whom will it be produced?

What are the basic characteristics of traditional, free market, command, and mixed economies? How does each type of economy answer the three basic questions?

Characteristics of major economic systems

    No country relies exclusively on markets to deal with the economic problem of scarcity.

  • Traditional economy
    • - Economic decisions are based on custom and historical precedent
    • - People often perform the same type of work as their parents and grandparents, regardless of ability or potential.
  • Free market
    • - Private ownership of property/resources
    • - Profit motive
    • - Competition
    • - Consumer sovereignty
    • - Individual choice
    • - Minimal government involvement in the economy
  • Command economy
    • − Central ownership (usually by government) of property/resources
    • − Centrally-planned economy
    • − Lack of consumer choice
  • Mixed economy
    • − Individuals and businesses as owners and decision makers for the private sector
    • − Government as owner and decision maker for the public sector
    • − Government role is greater than in a free market economy and less than in a command economy.
    • − Most economies today (including the United States) are mixed economies.


STANDARD CE.11c (formerly CE.9c)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of how economic decisions are made in the marketplace by c) describing the characteristics of the United States economy, including free markets, limited government, private property, profit, and competition.

The United States economy is primarily a free market economy; but because there is some government involvement it is characterized as a mixed economy.


Government intervenes in a market economy when the perceived benefits of a government policy outweigh the anticipated costs.

What are the essential characteristics of the United States economy?

Characteristics of the United States economy

  • Markets are generally allowed to operate without undue interference from the government.
  • Prices are determined by supply and demand as individual buyers and sellers interact in the marketplace.
  • Private property - Individuals and businesses have the right to own real or personal property as well as the means of production without undue interference from the government.
  • Profit - Profit consists of earnings after all expenses have been paid.
  • Competition - Rivalry between producers/sellers of a good or service results in better quality goods and services at a lower price.

Consumer sovereignty - Consumers determine through purchases, what goods and services will be produced. Government involvement in the economy is limited. Most decisions regarding the production of goods and services are made in the private sector.


In the United States private individuals, businesses, and government share economic decision making.



STANDARD CE.12a (formerly CE.10a)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the structure and operation of the United States economy by

a) describing the types of business organizations and the role of entrepreneurship;

There are three basic ways that businesses organize to earn profits.


Entrepreneurs play an important role in all three business organizations.

What are the basic types of
profit-seeking business structures?

    Basic types of business ownership

  • Proprietorship—
    • A form of business organization with one owner who takes all the risks and all the profits
  • Partnership—
    • A form of business organization with two or more owners who share the risks and the profits.
  • Corporation—
    • A form of business organization that is authorized by law to act as a legal person regardless of the number of owners.
    • Owners share the profits.
    • Owner liability is limited to investment.

What is an entrepreneur?

  • Entrepreneur—
    • A person who takes a risk to produce goods and services in search of profit
    • May establish a business according to any of the three types of organizational structures


STANDARD CE.12b (formerly CE.10b)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the structure and operation of the United States economy by

b) explaining the circular flow that shows how consumers (households), businesses (producers), and markets interact;

Resources, goods and services, and money flow continuously among households, businesses, and markets in the United States economy.

How do resources, goods and services, and money flow among individuals, businesses, and governments in a market economy?

Economic flow (Circular flow)

  • Individual and business saving and investment provide financial capital that can be borrowed for business expansion and increased consumption.
  • Individuals (households) own the resources used in production, sell the resources, and use the income to purchase products.
  • Businesses (producers) buy resources; make products that are sold to individuals, other businesses, and the government; and use the profits to buy more resources.
  • Governments use tax revenue from individuals and businesses to provide public goods and services.

STANDARD CE.12c (formerly CE.10c)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the structure and operation of the United States economy by

c) explaining how financial institutions encourage saving and investing channel funds from savers to borrowers;

Private financial institutions act as intermediaries between savers and borrowers that include households and business investors.

How do financial institutions make the deposits of savers available to borrowers encourage saving and investing?

    Characteristics of private financial institutions

  • Include banks, savings and loans, and credit unions, and securities brokerages
  • Receive deposits and make loans
  • Encourage saving and investing by paying interest on deposits

STANDARD CE.12d (formerly CE.10d)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the structure and operation of the United States economy by

d) examining the relationship of Virginia and the United States to the global economy, with emphasis on the impact of technological innovations.

Virginia and the United States pursue
international trade in order to increase wealth.

Why do Virginia and the United States
trade with other nations?

    Global Economy—

    Worldwide markets in which the buying and selling of goods and services by all nations takes place

    Reasons that states and nations trade

  • To obtain goods and services they cannot produce or produce efficiently themselves
  • To buy goods and services at a lower cost or a lower opportunity cost
  • To sell goods and services to other countries
  • To create jobs

    • Virginia and the United States specialize in the production of certain goods and services which promotes efficiency and growth.

What is the impact of
technological innovation on world trade?

    Impact of technological innovations

  • Innovations in technology (e.g., the Internet) contribute to the global flow of information, capital, goods, and services.
  • The use of such technology also lowers the cost of production.

STANDARD CE.13a (formerly CE.11a)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

a) examining competition in the marketplace;

The government promotes and regulates competition.

How does the United States government promote and regulate competition?

    Ways the government promotes marketplace competition

  • Enforcing antitrust legislation to discourage the development of monopolies
  • Engaging in global trade
  • Supporting business start-ups

    Government agencies that regulate business

  • FCC (Federal Communications Commission)
  • EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)
  • FTC (Federal Trade Commission)

    • These agencies oversee the way individuals and companies do business.



STANDARD CE.13b (formerly CE.11b)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

b) explaining the creation of public how government provides certain goods and services;

Government provides public goods and services that individuals and businesses acting alone could not provide efficiently.

What are public goods and services? What types of goods and services do governments provide?

    Characteristics of most goods and services provided by the government.

  • Provide benefits to many simultaneously
  • Would not likely be available if individuals had to provide them
  • Include such items as interstate highways, postal service, and national defense

How do governments pay for the goods and services they provide?

    Ways governments  pay for  public goods and services

  • Through tax revenue
  • Through borrowed funds
  • Through fees (e.g., park entrance fees)

STANDARD CE.13c (formerly CE.11c)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

c) describing the impact of taxation, including an understanding of the reasons for the 16th Amendment, spending, and borrowing;

The government taxes, borrows, and spends to influence economic activity.

How does the government influence economic activity?

Government tax increases
reduce the funds available for private and business spending; tax decreases
increase funds for private and business spending.


Increased government borrowing
reduces funds available for borrowing by individuals and businesses;   
decreased government borrowing
increases funds available for borrowing by individuals and businesses.

Increased government spending
increases demand, which may increase employment and production;
decreased spending
reduces demand, which may result in a slowing of the economy.


Increased government spending may result in higher taxes; decreased government spending may result in lower taxes.


The 16th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America authorizes Congress to tax incomes (personal and business).



STANDARD CE.13d (formerly CE.11d)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

d) explaining how the Federal Reserve System regulates the money supply acts as our nation’s central bank;

The Federal Reserve System, acting as the central bank, regulates the money supply. is our nation’s central bank.

What is the role of the Federal Reserve System in maintaining a stable economy?

    As the central bank of the United States, the Federal Reserve System

  • Has the duty to maintain the value of our currency (dollar).
  • Regulates banks to ensure the soundness of the banking system and the safety of deposits.
  • Manages the amount of money in the economy to try to keep inflation low and stable.
  • Acts as the federal government’s bank.
  • The Federal Reserve System (Fed) is the central bank of the United States. Federal Reserve banks act as a banker’s bank by issuing currency and regulating the amount of money in circulation.
  • To slow the economy, the Federal Reserve Bank restricts the money supply, causing interest rates to rise; to stimulate the economy the Fed increases the money supply, causing interest rates to decline.

    • Ways the Federal Reserve Bank slows the economy

  • Increases the reserve requirement
  • Raises the discount rate
  • Sells government securities Ways the Federal Reserve Bank stimulates the economy
  • Lowers the reserve requirement
  • Lowers the discount rate
  • Purchases government securities

STANDARD CE.13e (formerly CE.11e)

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

e) describing the protection of consumer rights and property rights;

The United States government passes laws and creates agencies to protect consumer rights and property rights.

What is the role of the United States government in protecting consumer rights and property rights?

Individuals have the right of private ownership, which is protected by negotiated contracts that are enforceable by law.


Government agencies establish guidelines that protect public health and safety.


Consumers may take legal action against violations of consumer rights.

STANDARD CE.13f

The student will demonstrate knowledge of the role of government in the United States economy by

f) recognizing that government creates currency and coins and that there are additional forms of money.

Money is defined as anything that is generally accepted as a method of payment.

Why does the government issue currency and coins?

When the United States government issues coins and currency, people accept it in exchange for goods and services because they have confidence in the government.


Government issues money to facilitate this exchange.

The three types of money generally used in the United States are:

  • Coins
  • Federal Reserve notes ( currency)
  • Deposits in bank accounts that can be accessed by checks and debit cards

Which government agencies are responsible for creating money?

Answer not provided.

STANDARD CE.14 (formerly CE.12)

    The student will demonstrate knowledge of career opportunities by


  1. identifying talents, interests, and aspirations that influence career choice;
  2. identifying attitudes and behaviors that strengthen the individual work ethic and promote career success;
  3. identifying abilities, skills, and education and the changing supply and demand for them in the economy;
  4. examining the impact of technological change and globalization on career opportunities. ;
  5. describing the importance of education to lifelong personal finances;
  6. examining the financial responsibilities of citizenship including evaluating common forms of credit, savings, investments, purchases, contractual agreements, warranties, and guarantees.

An awareness of individual talents, interests, and aspirations is needed to select a career.


Attitudes and behaviors that support a strong work ethic enhance career success.


There is a correlation between skills, education, and income.


Changes in technology influence the abilities, skills, and education needed in the marketplace.

What is the role of self-assessment in career planning?

Career planning starts with self-assessment.


What is the role of work ethic in determining career success?

Employers seek employees who demonstrate the attitudes and behaviors of a strong work ethic.


What is the relationship between skills, education, and income?

Higher skill(s) and/or education level(s) generally lead to higher incomes.


Supply and demand also influence job income.


Employers seek individuals who have kept pace with technological change/skills.

What influence do advances in technology have on the workplace?

Technological advancements create new jobs in the workplace.


Technology and information flows permit people to work across borders. This creates competition from foreign workers for United States jobs and may create opportunities for United States workers to work for companies in other countries.


Being fiscally responsible includes making careful spending decisions, saving and investing for the future, having insurance, keeping to a budget, using credit wisely, as well as understanding how contracts, warranties, and guarantees can protect the individual.