USA: Society and Culture (3cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Objective

The course provides the student with an opportunity to familiarize him- or herself with various issues which are important for a comprehensive understanding of life in the USA today and discuss them in an academic setting.

Upon successful completion of the course the student will be better able to
1) understand the social and political reality of life in the United States today
2) analyze political discourse critically, debate public issues, and express his/her opinions effectively.

Execution methods

Lectures and discussion (36 hours), individual homework (reading), two 2-3 page papers, and a presentation based on one of the papers.

Accomplishment methods

Successful completion of the papers and the presentation, active participation in group discussions, regular attendance.

Content

The history of immigration to America and immigration issues today, ethnic issues and the situation of the major ethnic groups, the structure and functions of the federal government, American politics and the main political parties, religion and its importance for social and political issues, judicial issues, and educational issues at the basic and university levels.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1)

5-1/fail based on the papers, presentation and class participation.

Qualifications

Upper secondary school or equivalent.