Syllabus
American History I (1500-1890)
This course examines the history of the United States beginning with Pre-
Columbian Native cultures of the North American continent through the post
civil war and westward expansion eras in the United States.
American History II (1890- Present)
This course examines the history of the United States beginning with how
industrialization transformed America during the late 19th and early 20th
centuries through to contemporary issues affecting the United States.
Materials/Class Activities
TEXT: AMERICAN ANTHEM; Holt, Rinehart, & Winston © 2007
SUPPLIES: A 3-ring notebook, loose-leaf paper, containing tab dividers, a
zipper pocket for pens and pencils, and lined paper. Only one section will
be needed for this course
Pen (blue or black ink) or pencil
ACTIVITIES:
A. Lecture/Note taking, Class Discussion, Map Work, & Vocabulary
B. Group Work (2-5 people)
C. Homework will consist of reading, note taking, and “fact finding”
activities. All homework must be done on notebook paper.
D. Tests both essay and completion, will evaluate chapters, units, and
other related activities used in the classroom.
E. Research projects
F. Audio-Visual presentations
G. Student presentation
Grades
Grades are based on accumulative points for class work, homework, tests,
quizzes and projects. The quarter grade will be determined by adding up all
the points earned and dividing by the total points possible. The resulting
grade will be given a letter grade based on the Mesa Public Schools’ grading
policy. The semester grade will be based on the first quarter grade, second
quarter grade, and the final exam.
90 - 100% = A
80 - 89 % = B
70 - 79 % = C
60 - 69 % = D
0 - 59 % = Fail
Grades are not "rounded up"
Attendance and Homework
• Student attendance will follow district and school guidelines, including
the sweep program. Any assignment due must be turned into the sweep proctor
to receive full credit. On test days, the student must schedule a make up
time the same day. No make up days will be allowed.
• Incomplete homework will not be accepted for credit.
• Make-up (verified absence where the parent reports the absence within one
day). You will have one (1) day for each day absent to turn in make-up work.
• Audit: Students with 10+ absences are in audit status.
• In the event that a student is absent the day before a test that student
will still take the test upon returning on test day. Final Exams will not be
rescheduled to accommodate family vacations.
• DAILY ATTENDANCE IS VITAL TO YOUR SUCCESS IN THIS CLASS. If you miss a
class, check the daily calendar for the assignment. I will not check with
you. Make-up days will be equal to the number of days missed. Unexcused
absences do not apply. You must take full responsibility for all make up
work.
Class Policies
• NO STUDENT SHALL KEEP ANOTHER STUDENT FROM LEARNING IN THIS CLASS.
• Students is expected to demonstrate competent study skill on a daily
basis; keeping careful records of homework assignments, exam and project due
dates on an assignment calendar and/or daily planner.
• Student is to come to class prepared to participate. This involves having
your textbook, 3-ring notebook, completed homework and proper attitude.
Student must have his or her school ID with them in order to leave the room
with a pass from Mr. Hill
• School attendance and dress code policies will be enforced. Electronic
devices such as pagers, cell phones, palm pilots, calculators, CD players,
ipods or any other music device are not allowed to be in sight or used and
are to be kept in your back pack. If it causes a disruption it will be
confiscated and given to an administrator.
• No food, candy or drinks in class.
• Sleeping or lying on the desks is not allowed. If you are feeling ill ask
to go to the nurse- you are expected to be alert, awake and attentive and
ready to learn. Your enthusiasm is appreciated!
• Be polite to each individual in the class. The study of history and
current events invites discussion of different points of view. When
expressing your opinions or beliefs do so in a manner that is respectful of
yourself and others.
Teacher Availability
If any questions arise, Coach Hill may be reached at 480-472-3084.
Parents are encouraged to make note of this number and call as needed.
I will assist the counseling department in the afternoons and will be
available for phone calls. Also, I can be reached by email at
whill@mpsaz.org Students are encouraged to seek extra help after school.
I will arrange my schedule to meet with students as necessary.
