Conceptual Understanding - SS.12G.5.a:
Each level of government has its own process of shaping, implementing, amending, and enforcing public policy. Customarily the executive branch will outline its plan and agenda in an executive address to the legislative body.

Conceptual Understanding - SS.12G.5.b:
On various issues, certain governmental branches and agencies are responsible for determining policy. Those who create public policies attempt to balance regional and national needs, existing political positions and loyalties, and sources of political power.

Conceptual Understanding - SS.12G.5.c:
Successful implementation of government policy often requires cooperation among many levels of government as well as other public and private institutions. Conflicts between different levels of government sometimes emerge due to different goals, ideas, and resources regarding creation and implementation of policy.

Conceptual Understanding - SS.12G.5.d:
Active and engaged citizens must be effective media consumers in order to be able to find, monitor, and evaluate information on political issues. The media have different venues which have particular strengths and serve distinct and shared purposes. Knowing how to critically evaluate a media source is fundamental to being an informed citizen.