Constitutional Law I (332-0-1)

Instructors

Nicolette Isabel Bruner

Meeting Info

Kresge Centennial Hall 2-415: Tues, Thurs 11:00AM - 12:20PM

Overview of class

This course investigates the structure of American government as laid out by the Constitution. It will also examine the many controversies over what, exactly, the Constitution means, who gets to decide, and how. We will discuss judicial review, the powers of Congress and the executive branch, and the relationship between the federal government and the states.

(also taught as POLI SCI 332)

Learning Objectives

Throughout this course, students will develop critical reading, thinking, and writing skills; by the end of the quarter, students should be able to: understand the U.S. Constitution and Supreme Court cases, explain how doctrines of law have changed over time, analyze the assumptions of courts and policy makers, and understand how the Supreme Court responds to political, social, and economic factors.

Teaching Method

Lecture & Discussion Sections

Evaluation Method

active and informed participation in class & discussion section - 15% (150 points) • short collaborative quizzes - 10% (25 points each/100 points total) - we will have 5 quizzes, only 4 will count so you can drop or miss one) • take home midterm exam - 35% (350 points) • take home final exam - 40% (400 points) • research study participation requirement

Class Materials (Required)

David M. O'Brien, Constitutional Law and Politics: Struggles for Power and Governmental Accountability, Vol. 1 (W. W. Norton & Company; 11th ed. 2020)

Class Attributes

Social and Behavioral Science Foundational Discipl
Social & Behavioral Sciences Distro Area