Traditional writing assignments often fall short in addressing problems in college students' writing as too often these assignments fail to help students develop critical thinking skills and comprehension of course content. This article reports the use of a two-part (staged) writing assignment with postscript as a strategy for improving critical…

Traditional writing assignments only teach students to write for academic settings. Assigning students policy briefs and policy memos gives them the opportunity to practice the type of writing they will perform both inside and outside of academia while still developing critical thinking skills and an understanding of the political world. Including…

This article examines the effectiveness of a collaborative group learning project for teaching a core competency in comparative politics: constitutional structures. We use a quasi-experimental design and propensity score matching to assess the value of a constitutional writing group project and presentation. The results provide strong evidence…

This article discusses the use of pop culture in the classroom as a means to teach foundational political science authors and concepts. I focus on my experience using "American Idol" as a point of reference to discuss Marx and Engel's "The Communist Manifesto" and Tocqueville's "Democracy in America" in undergraduate comparative politics courses.…

Explains that political science instructors should assign several short writing assignments that are different but related. Discusses the importance of clear guidelines. Addresses responding to writing assignments, discussing the three-part evaluation process, evaluating writing as a process, being aware of student reactions, and providing helpful…

Presents a syllabus for an undergraduate introductory course on political science. Includes an analysis and rationale of the course organization and materials from the instructor. Discusses the educational goals and objectives of the course and how these are met. Reprints instructions for the final required paper. (MJP)

Suggests that an interactive student journal (maintained through e-mail with only the teacher and student having access) creates a space allowing for closer and more productive communication between the two. Describes an Introduction to Political Theory course that used this approach, and the resulting benefits. (MJP)

Presents a syllabus for an introductory political science course. Includes a course outline, description, list of textbooks and readings, requirements, and grading policy. The course is structured in thematic units including the context of politics, acting in politics, the work of government, and alternative arenas of government. (MJP)

Presents a syllabus for an undergraduate U.S. government course that emphasizes theoretical foundations, institutions, governmental authority, national issues, and the making of public policy. Discusses the various methodologies for the course including traditional lecture-discussion, films, simulations, and readings. Describes in-class…

Presents the syllabus of an introductory U.S. government course. The course stresses alternative views on government including multiculturalism, grass-roots politics, social issues, class, race, and gender. Specifically, seeks to inculcate critical thinking and a global awareness. Includes a course outline, discussion of grading policies, and list…