U.S. History

 
WELCOME TO U.S HISTORY  2008 - 2009

   I am delighted to welcome this year's Junior class to the study of U.S. 
History!  Although they have been exposed to the subject in grade school, 
this " survey" course is intended to challenge the students at a much higher 
level.

   TEXTBOOK: THE AMERICANS

  COURSE OBJECTIVES:  The 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 skill to prepare them
             for their college career

   GRADING POLICY:
         As stated on the announcement page, all grading will be done on a
         cumulative point basis.  The breakdown will be as follows:

                   1.  Tests ( at least three major tests per quarter)
                       80 - 100 points

                   2.  Projects:  80 - 100 points


                   3.  Take home Essays:  50 points

                   
                   4.   Quizzes:  30 - 40 points


                   5.  Homework ( to be checked in class)  10 points each


    PLEASE NOTE:  My personal goal this year is to make the study of History 
interesting for every student.  I also want every student to be successful.  
I create a variety of assignments so that all the students can be 
successful, given their particulare learning style.  Review sheets for tests 
will be given out approximately two days before the exam date.  Essays will 
be give out at least one week before they are due.  Some quizzes will be 
open book.  Projects will be designed to reflect the student's own 
creativity.

    DESPITE MY BEST EFFORTS:  some students have not been as successful as 
they could be and almost always this is predicted by their work ethic.  For 
example, each quarter they will have at least 100 points of checked 
homework, and yet, I have had students who have squandered this opportunity 
and failed the quarter.  Homework will be due at least every other day, so 
please check with your student to see if they have done their work.