POLS 210: American Government – Week 4 Discussion Post Assignment

This assignment is part of the weekly discussion series in POLS 210 at Southern New Hampshire University. It encourages students to engage with key concepts in American political systems through critical analysis and peer interaction. The focus aligns with module objectives on federalism and state powers.

Assignment Overview

Examine the balance of power between federal and state governments in the United States. Consider how recent events, such as policy responses to public health crises, illustrate shifts in this balance. Your post should draw on course readings and external sources to support your views.

Task Description

Write an initial discussion post of 300-500 words addressing the prompt: “How has federalism evolved in response to contemporary challenges like pandemics or economic downturns? Provide examples from the last decade.” Then, respond to at least two classmates’ posts with substantive replies of 150-250 words each, building on their ideas or offering counterpoints.

Requirements

• Submit your initial post by Wednesday at 11:59 PM EST.
• Complete peer replies by Sunday at 11:59 PM EST.
• Use APA formatting for citations and references.
• Incorporate at least two scholarly sources beyond the textbook.
• Ensure posts are original, well-organized, and free of grammatical errors.
• Posts should demonstrate critical thinking, not just summary.

Grading Rubric

1. Content and Analysis (40%): Depth of understanding, relevance to prompt, use of examples.
2. Engagement with Sources (20%): Integration of readings and external references.
3. Peer Responses (20%): Quality of interaction, adding value to discussion.
4. Clarity and Mechanics (10%): Writing quality, grammar, structure.
5. Timeliness and Participation (10%): Meeting deadlines, full involvement.

Total: 100 points. Detailed feedback will be provided via the learning management system.

Federalism has adapted significantly to modern crises, as seen in the U.S. response to COVID-19 where states implemented varied lockdown measures while the federal government coordinated vaccine distribution. This division highlighted tensions, with some states challenging federal mandates through legal actions. Economic policies during recessions further show how federal aid influences state autonomy, often leading to debates on overreach.

 References

• Birkland, T.A., 2020. An introduction to the policy process: Theories, concepts, and models of public policy making. 5th ed. Routledge. DOI: 10.4324/9781351023948. Available at: https://www.taylorfrancis.com/books/mono/10.4324/9781351023948/introduction-policy-process-thomas-birkland.
• Conlan, T., 2019. From new federalism to devolution: Twenty-five years of intergovernmental reform. Brookings Institution Press. Available at: https://www.brookings.edu/books/from-new-federalism-to-devolution/.
• Kettl, D.F., 2021. The divided states of America: Why federalism doesn’t work. Princeton University Press. DOI: 10.1515/9780691201054. Available at: https://press.princeton.edu/books/hardcover/9780691182278/the-divided-states-of-america.
• Rocco, P., Béland, D. and Waddan, A., 2020. Stuck in neutral? Federalism, policy instruments, and counter-cyclical responses to COVID-19 in the United States. Policy and Society, 39(3), pp.458-477. DOI: 10.1080/14494035.2020.1783793. Available at: https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14494035.2020.1783793.