Constitutional Law (LAW-503-003)
Bill Yeomans
Meets: 10:00 AM - 11:50 AM (TF) - Yuma - Room YT17
Enrolled: 94 / Limit: 95
Notices
There are no notices at this time.
Description
This foundational course in Constitutional Law is designed to familiarize students with the basic requirements of the Constitution, the institutions that interpret and apply it, and the methods of analysis used to determine the meaning of the Constitution The course will expose students to the structure of government, the powers of each branch, the relationships between the branches, the relationship between the federal government and the states, and the ways in which the Constitution governs the relationship between individuals and the government through such doctrines as equal protection of the law and substantive due process.
The course will help students understand the role of text, history, structure, and societal values in interpreting the Constitution. It will explore both historical and contemporary applications of the Constitution, addressing such topics as the role of the Constitution regarding race, marriage, voting, the power of Congress and the President to regulate health care, immigration, foreign affairs, and war. The class will also examine the role of courts in interpreting the Constitution, beginning with the underpinnings of judicial review. It will also focus on the practice of constitutional law by the executive and legislative branches of government. Students will be asked to think critically about all of the institutions responsible for interpreting the Constitution.
The class will help students learn basic doctrine and develop skills through class discussion, role playing, team collaboration, and debate. Students will develop both analytical and advocacy skills. They will be asked to analyze cases, think about the interpretation of constitutional provisions, and make arguments in support of views of cases and constitutional doctrines. Students will take a final exam that will include short and long essay questions and ask them to demonstrate basic knowledge, as well as skills of analysis and advocacy.
Textbooks and Other Materials
The textbook information on this page was provided by the instructor. Students should use this information when considering purchases from the AU Campus Store or other vendors. Students may check to determine if books are currently available for purchase online.
First Class Readings
Not available at this time.
Syllabus
Use your MyAU username and password to access the syllabus in the following format(s):
Microsoft Word 2007 (DOCX)