Essentials of US Politics and Government: For Edexcel a-Level Politics

Essentials of US Politics and Government is the latest book in the Essentials of series for A-Level Politics, which maps on to the Edexcel specification. It covers all the knowledge required to tackle paper 3 of the A level; United States politics, as well as Comparative US-UK politics. Author Andrew Colclough is head of politics at an independent school in Oxford and a Team Leader examiner at Edexcel, so brings a wealth of experience in supporting both students and teachers. All of the core chapters in the book are organized around the series' signature 'Key Debates' feature, which explain the vital arguments, with supporting evidence, clearly and concisely. These aid students in constructing persuasive arguments in their essays. Summary tables at the end of each debate ideal both to gain a quick overview of the topic and as a tool for revision. The book also offers: - An abundance of contemporary political examples and case studies - A unique chapter on Comparative US and UK Politics - 'Knowledge Checks' at regular intervals so students can check their understanding and factual recall - A dedicated 'Exam Focus' chapter, which gives advice on developing the skills for exam success, as well as annotated sample essays - An extensive companion website with further sample essays, templates for essay planning, bonus case study material and more. Cover Title Copyright Brief Contents Contents Specification Table List of Illustrations List of Key Topic Debates List of Case Studies About the Author Tour of the Book Digital Resources How to Use the Book Acknowledgements 1. Getting Started on US Politics US politics today Key features of the US political system 2. The Constitution The history of the US Constitution The nature of the US Constitution The constitutional powers of the US branches of government The amendment process Key features of the US Constitution The US Constitution and democracy Strengths and weaknesses 3. Congress The structure and membership of Congress The distribution of power within Congress Representation Legislation Oversight The effectiveness of constitutional powers Changing roles and powers 4. The Presidency Formal sources of presidential power Informal sources of presidential power Limitations on presidential power The relationship between the President and Supreme Court Factors affecting presidential power Interpretations and debates 5. The Supreme Court and Civil Rights The nature and role of the Supreme Court The appointment process The extent of their powers and the effectiveness of checks and balances The Supreme Court and public policy The protection of civil liberties The political versus judicial nature of the Supreme Court Living constitution versus originalism Race and rights in contemporary US politics 6. Elections Electoral systems in the USA Primaries and caucuses Invisible primaries National party conventions The Electoral College The party system Incumbency Campaign finance 7. Political Parties and Interest Groups Key ideas and principles of the Democratic and Republican parties Conflicts within parties Coalition of supporters The significance of interest groups Interest groups and democracy Influence on the three branches of government 8. Comparative US and UK Politics Theoretical approaches Constitutions Regional power: devolution and federalism Legislatures Executives Supreme Courts and civil rights Democracy and participation 9. Exam Focus Exam overview How to tackle Section A comparative questions How to tackle Section B comparative questions Section C US essays Final words Index