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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 mosaic.
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:
College Prep: The Americans, Danzer et al; 2005
General: Creating America, Garcia et al; 2005
Course Objectives: Upon completion of this course,
students will:
1. have an understanding of the major events, ideas, and people which have
shaped 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. hone their critical thinking skills through reading, writing, research, and
oral communication.
5. 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. There will also be quizzes,
analytical homework assignments, and written assignments, both spontaneous as
well as long term.
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. 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, 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. Bring your books, binder, and writing implements to class. You will not be
permitted to get them from your locker once class has begun.
5. Be on time! Class usually begins with a quick review of the previous
discussion. This is an excellent opportunity for clarification.
6. Do not chew gum in my class.
7. Do not deface the desks in my class.
8. 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: Please feel free to e-mail, or call me at school. If I have
not responded within 48 hours, I did not get the message. I will respond as
quickly as I can.
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