Weeks 1-4: Introduction to U.S. Government and Founding Principles

1. Overview of the course and its importance
2. Introduction to key concepts: government, democracy, republic
3. Exploration of foundational documents: Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution
4. Principles of government: separation of powers, checks and balances

Weeks 5-8: The U.S. Constitution and its Amendments 

1. Bill of Rights: First Amendment freedoms
2. Exploring the remaining Amendments and their significance
3. Debates over interpretation: originalism vs. living constitution

Weeks 9-12: The Three Branches of Government 

1. Legislative branch: structure and functions of Congress
2. Judicial branch: federal and state courts, role of the Supreme Court
3. Case study: landmark Supreme Court decisions and their impact

Weeks 13-16: The Electoral Process and Political Participation 

1. Electoral College: purpose, criticisms, potential reforms
2. Political parties and ideologies: Democrats, Republicans, third parties
3. Civic engagement: voting rights, voter turnout, grassroots activism

Weeks 17-20: State and Local Government 

1. State government structure: governors, legislatures, courts
2. Local government: municipalities, counties, special districts
3. Federal and state interactions: cooperative federalism, conflicts

Weeks 21-24: Civil Liberties and Civil Rights

1. Right to bear arms: Second Amendment debates
2. Civil rights movements: African Americans, women, LGBTQ+ community
3. Affirmative action, equal protection, and combating discrimination

Weeks 25-28: Public Policy and Domestic Issues 

1. Education policy: funding, standards, school choice
2. Environmental policy: climate change, conservation, regulation
3. Social welfare programs: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid

Weeks 29-32: Foreign Policy and International Relations 

1. U.S. involvement in global organizations: United Nations, NATO, etc.
2. Trade and economic policy: tariffs, trade agreements, globalization
3. National security and counterterrorism efforts

Weeks 33-36: Contemporary Issues and Future Challenges 

1. Immigration policy and border security debates
2. Income inequality and wealth distribution
3. Review and reflection on the course, civic responsibilities, and future of U.S. government