MRS. CELESTE LEX
2009 - 2010
This survey course in American History will trace the rise of the American
nation from colonization to the present. Students will be required to
demonstrate analytical and interpretative abilities in class discussion as
well as in written work, leading them to a better understanding of the
American culture, the American family.
As the school year progresses, the students will assume greater responsibility
for their own learning. In the first semester, only material covered in class
will be evaluated; however in the second semester, the students will be
responsible for all of the material in the textbook regardless whether it was
covered in class or not. It is absolutely imperative that students read for
understanding and complete homework assignments in order to be successful.
Textbbooks: Sophomores and Juniors will use the same textbook
College Prep: The Americans, Danzer et al; 2005
Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course, students will:
1. have an understanding of the major events, ideas, and people responsible
for shaping our history.
2. recognize and appreciate the many cultural groups that have blended to form
the American mosaic.
3. understand the formation and development of the United States in order to
become active citizens.
4. appreciate the sacrifices made by our ancestors to create the unique
American freedoms and identity.
5. hone their critical thinking skills through reading, writing, research, and
oral communication.
6. sharpen their note-taking and listening skills to prepare them for their
college career.
Required Materials: a small binder for homework, notes, and
handouts
Grading Policy: Grading will be done on a cumulative point
basis. The majority of the points, thus the heaviest weight, will come from
tests, at least three major tests per quarter. In addition, each student, both
sophomores and juniors will create a series of essays over the course of the
year as responses to specific events in United States History. There will also
be quizzes, and analytical homework assignments. While I do not give "pop"
quizzes, you will expected to take quizzes based on your homework.
Tests = 50% Homework / Quizzes = 30% Essays = 20%
Make up Tests: Make up quizzes and tests will be given if a
student is absent on the day of the original. You may take the test before or
after school, or during your study hall. Please note: I always
announce tests well in advance, so if you happen to be absent on the day
before a test, you are still expected to take the test on the day of the test.
There will not be any extra credit questions on make up tests. Students have
one day for each day of absence to make up work. This includes a "drop" day. It
is your responsibility to make up work in a timely manner so as not to receive
a zero. I will NOT chase you down.
Late Work: It is in your best interests to turn in all
assignments, including homework, ON TIME!
1. Nightly homework will only be accepted on the day it is due. Accordingly,
you must have the homework in class with you, not in your locker. As I am
incapable of reading a disc or flashdrive, you must be prepared with a hard
copy of your work. Furthermore, I will not accept homework that is e-mailed to
me.
2. The student will be penalized one full letter grade for each day an
assignment is late.
3. After four school days, including a "drop" day,
late work will no longer be accepted.
Extra Credit: DO NOT ASK! I do NOT give extra
credit assignments, however there are ample opportunities within the structure
of the class in which to receive extra credit points. In a typical quarter,
you will have the opportunity to receive approximately 20 - 25 extra credit
points in the following manner:
1. all tests contain extra credit questions
2. long term assignments turned in early
3. classroom activities
4. extraordinary effort - either with homework or in class participation
** Please note that you must be physically in class in order to receive extra
credit.
Classroom Policies
1. RESPECT each other as well as myself. This means that you do not
talk while either I or one of your classmates is speaking.
2. PARTICIPATE in order to demonstrate your mastery of the material as
well as your lack of understanding. While I do not grade participation, it is
in your best interest to participate, especially if you are "on the bubble"
between grades.
3. ACADEMIC DISHONESTY in any form will not be tolerated.
4. RESPECT my classroom as I spent a great deal of time, effort, and
money to provide a pleasant environment for you.
5. Check my website for assignments. I usually post the week's assignments by
Friday of the preceding week or Mondays. I expect you to be aware of what we
are doing in class and what you are supposed to do for homework.
6. Bring your books, binder, and writing implements to class. You will not be
permitted to get them from your locker once class has begun.
7. Be on time! Class usually begins with a quick review of the previous
discussion. This is an excellent opportunity for clarification. If you are
having a quiz based on your homework, you will not be give extra time due to
tardiness.
8. Do not chew gum in my class.
9. Since I strive to present a neat appearance, I expect you to do the same. Wear
your uniform proudly.
Contact Information:
Students: Please talk to me if you have a problem. It is too late after
you have failed a test to tell me you did not understand the material. I am
usually available after school and am more than willing to help.
Parents: As I have over 100 students, it is sometimes difficult to
monitor each child's progress. Unless I note a dramatic decline in you child's
performance, I will not contact you. However, please feel free to e-mail at
clex@paulvi.net, or call me at school if you have any questions or concerns.
If I have not responded within 48 hours, I did not get the message. I will
respond as quickly as I can.