This site is designed to assist students in studying for their U.S. History tests. I have high goals for this site in the future, but for now I will merely try to have review materials available here. Many things keep me busy so I can't guarantee that this will always be up-to-date.
Mr. Kotman
[New!] Review [New!]
I have now added some additional resources in the form of Sporcle review quizzes. Just follow the link below:
Homework
In a typical week I assign 2 to 3 homework assignments from our textbook. I assign the homework to:
1. Develop student's reading comprehension (specifically of historical texts) and
2. To introduce or reinforce History concepts.
Because I set these goals for homework students are not to receive help from others (students, parents, or myself). I will rephrase a question if a student does not understand the wording of a question.
Homework Format: Homework assignments are fairly straight-forward. Typically, students will read a short section from the book (usually around 5 pages) and then answer some questions on the reading (usually 4 or 5 questions). These homework assignments are due the next day at the beginning of class.
Crossword Puzzles
Before many tests I will give students a crossword puzzle review of the material. Many of the clues in the crossword puzzles are test questions themselves (with only slight wording differences). To make sure that students take advantage of this useful review, they are not to receive help from others (students, parents, or myself). If a student figures out the answer but not the wording, I will give the exact wording.
Crossword Puzzle Format: Crossword puzzles are given at the end of a unit and usually have around 20 to 25 questions. Students can use books, notes, or the internet (just not another person). Crossword puzzles are typically due the day of the test at the beginning of class .
Tests
At the end of every unit I give a test. I try to keep the amount of information manageable by having frequent small tests. Review sheets are handed out a day or two prior to the test but are not necessarily complete. If this is not enough time, I recommend taking notes and studying a small amount each night. Some of the material taught in class may not appear on the review sheet or in the book so it is crucial that you pay attention in class and ask questions when confused.
Test Format: Tests are typically one page in length (both sides). I tend to ask short answer questions with some fill in the blank (almost never do I have multiple choice). I require students to answer questions with complete sentences unless the answer is sufficiently answered with one word. Examples:
Who wanted "peace without victory"? Woodrow Wilson (good)
Who were the main Axis Powers? Germany, Italy, Japan (good)
What was the name of Martin Luther King Jr.'s most famous speech? "I Have a Dream" (good)
What nation was blamed for World War I? Germany (good)
Does Social Darwinism match up with Christianity? Why?
No, Social Darwinism rejects the poor and leaves no room for showing mercy to others. (good)
NOT...
No, no mercy (bad)