COURSE DESCRIPTION
U.S. History is designed to give
you an overview of American history and the political institutions, social
movements, cultural trends, economic changes, and geographic conditions that
affect life today. This is a yearlong class and we will devote the first
semester to exploring the early history of the United States and work our way
toward the 20th century. During the second semester we will shift
our focus to more recent history. Course content will promote understanding of
historical events and current issues from multiple perspectives. You will also
be asked to participate in projects benefiting the larger community as an
exercise in citizenship.
Participation: Your prepared participation is essential for the success
of this class. I cannot overstate the importance of taking excellent notes.
Come to class prepared to think, ask questions and engage in meaningful
discussion. We should think, talk, and act as democratic citizens. That means
the classroom environment is a venue for discussion, negotiation of competing
ideals, debate and compromise. We must gather information through listening,
reading, thinking, and then critically evaluating information in order to form
our own opinions.
Notebook: You will need a three ring
binder that is divided into three sections: 1) class notes, 2) assignments, 3)
quizzes.
Journal: Each student must have an
in class spiral notebook that will stay in the classroom. We will often start
and conclude class with journal writing.
Homework: Expect regular reading
assignments. Completing these will be necessary to participate in daily class
activities, discussions, and lectures. Other assignments may range from
overnight tasks to multi-week projects. Expectations will be clear and generally
provided in writing. Homework must be completed outside of class and submitted
on the posted due-date.
Assessments: There will be a final assessment for every unit, and
the types of assessment will vary. We will do group projects/presentations, essays,
simulations, quizzes, etc. You should save your work for each unit to prepare
for the unit assessments!
Extra Credit: You can earn extra credit by participating in
pre-approved community and government events, entering history- or
citizenship-related contests (e.g., essay contests), or reading and reviewing a
book or film approved by me. Other opportunities may be made available. Extra
credit is not a substitute for turning in your regular coursework.
Grading: Your grade will be based on participation in
classroom activities, homework, projects, and assessments. Your grade will be
calculated on the percentage of earned points from total points possible. I use
the following standard grading scale -
93 = A 73 = C
90 = A- 70 = C-
87 = B+ 67 = D+
83 = B 63 = D
80 = B- 60 = D-
77 = C+ below 60 = F
Sensitive Materials: There are times in the course of Social Studies classes where sensitive
materials will be shown to students. These materials may include nudity
(indigenous people, war), violence (war, etc), extreme poverty, and some
written/video material with language considerations. It is your right to not
view these materials if you are sensitive to them. You will be given different
materials to incorporate the same information. When very sensitive materials
are to be shown in the class, letters will be sent home to parents.
NOTE: This
syllabus is subject to modification, but I will give you notice of any changes.
A
key to being successful in this class is desire and commitment. If you are
willing to commit yourself to doing your best, I will do all I can to help you
achieve your best.