Class Objectives
This course is designed to prepare students in early American History so that he/she will be able to apply, analyze, and appreciate the heritage of our country. It is my goal that all students that enter my classroom will have a solid understanding of how important events, places, and dates shaped the United States, as we know it today. Political, economic, and geographical activities will focus on connecting our past, present, and future, as well as, exhibit the importance of being a well rounded global and domestic citizen.
Students will also learn the skills necessary to become successful beyond the eighth grade. Skills such as reading, vocabulary, organization, and writing will be stressed. Daily class activities will include class discussions, group work, note taking, quizzes, and projects. I believe in designing activities where all students can be successful, and demonstrate their own individual talents.
My sincerest hope is that students that leave my classroom in May will leave better prepared to enter high school. I hope to instill in my students a better understanding of the history, geography, and people that make the United States of America a wonderfully unique country.
Class Procedures
When Absent
When students are absent it is their responsibility to ask me for the work they missed from their days absent. I keep any work they missed in a hanging file folder on the whiteboard, however it is crucial that they also get the proper instructions and directions before they begin working on their make–up work.
Missing and Zero Work
The missing and zero work grading policy of the Acton Middle School History Department states that any work that is turned in one day after an assigned due date will receive an automatic point deduction. Each day after that, the teacher may decide how many points to deduct from their grade. We will follow the Hallway SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) established by the teachers on the 8th grade hallway.
Retest Policy
A retest must be taken within 10 school days of receiving the initial graded test. A test can only be made up if original grade was below 70. The highest grade a student can receive on a retest is a 70. Only one retest is allowed per test, and a retest will not be given to any student caught cheating on the original test.
Student Grades
Student final grades will determined by the following:
1. Class Participation- Each student will receive a participation grade for classroom discussions. In US History there are several occasions for class discussions, and what is discussed is vital for student success. Assume everything we do is for a grade!!
2. Quizzes- I will give regular quizzes based on what we discuss in class to make sure the students are understanding previously learned material. Quizzes will count as a regular daily grade, but not as much as a test. Students should be prepared as some of the quizzes will be open note, and some of them will not.
3. Tests- Students will be given tests at the end of each unit. It is vital that students pass the tests to succeed in US History this year. I will review what is going to be on the test the day before each test, and the students will be given review materials to study for the test.
4. Projects- Projects will be assigned when appropriate with the material, and time frame allowed in a unit. Projects will always be graded as a test, and be accompanied by several daily grades.
Technology Use
Cell Phones- We will use cell phones in class on occasion, but please make sure to keep cell phones away until instructed to take them out. When using cell phones in class make sure to stay off of social media during class and please do not make personal phone calls.
I-Pods- Students will be allowed to listen to I-Pods during class while they are working individually as long listening to an I-Pod doesn’t keep the student from working or disrupting other students in the room.
GISD Grading Weight
Daily Assignments- 65%
Tests- 35%
Extra Credit
Extra credit can be done anytime during the school year. An extra credit grade could be used to replace a low daily grade, or raise a low test score. However, if a student is interested in an extra credit assignment they must come and talk with me before class, after class, or during tutorials. I am always more than willing to work with a student who shows interest in improving their class average.
Materials for Class
1. Composition book - used in class daily as an interactive journal.
2. Notebook - used in all classes almost daily for notes, paper, etc. Important for success in class. Must have notebooks by Friday the first week of school!!
3. Folder - A two pocket folder. Doesn’t have to be anything more than a 10 cent folder from Wal-Mart as long as it can hold handouts, and passed back graded work..
4. Pen/Pencil - I don’t care which you bring, but bring a pen/pencil to class everyday! No exceptions!!!!!
5. Highlighters and Map Pencils - we will use a lot, but I supply those things in my classroom. You only need to have your own if you don’t want to use the ones my other students have used that day. Its up to you.
Class Rules and Expectations
1. Be On Time!! There are only 3 minutes between classes this year, and no tardy bell so be responsible, take care of your business quickly, and get to class!!
2. Be Prepared to Learn!! Have all your stuff ready to go before class starts. If you need to borrow a pen, pencil, or paper from someone else please do so before class starts.
3. Respect Everything Inside the Room!! That includes each other, myself, and anybody that happens to come in the room. Show respect at all times!
4. Never Fear Your Own Success!! That means simply to be the best student that you can possibly be! Ask questions, ask for extra credit, and apply yourself.
5. Respect All Opinions!! We will discuss current events from time to time. Respect other people’s points of view so we can have a positive and informative debate.
Upcoming Projects
History Fair- Students will have the option of competing in the GISD History Fair. It will be extra credit but students are highly encouraged to participate. More information to come the first week of school.
Tutorial Hours - I will be available virtually any day during the morning or afternoon to assist any students who need tutoring or need to finish an assignment. I am available each morning from 8:00 - 8:30 except Friday, and I will be available in the afternoons until 5pm Monday through Thursday. Please have your child let me know if they plan on staying in the afternoon so I can plan accordingly.