Mr. Bartletti
Contemporary Issues Course Syllabus
Course Description/Course Goals
Contemporary Issues is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to make intelligent and informed decisions as adult members of our society. This course will focus on economic issues related to personal finance such as savings and investing as well as the role of taxes in society in relation to their personal lives and the national/world economy. The course is also designed to prepare our students for their participation in a global community by focusing on contemporary issues dealing with national/global politics, world problems, and the changing dynamics of the 21st century. Such issues covered may include: global terrorism, the rise of new international powers such as China and India (as well as others), and the potential problems that may face the U.S./world in the coming century. This course will use a multidisciplinary approach, by drawing on the fields of economics, history, geography, psychology, and sociology.
Grading Policy
The grading policy will follow the policy directed by the district which is found in the student handbook.
Homework Policy
Homework policy will follow the guidelines laid out in the student handbook. Late work will be accepted at 75% credit if it was collected or 0pts. if it was checked/discussed in class at the beginning of the hour. Work turned in at the completion of the unit will not be awarded points. As teacher I retain the right to adjust/amend deadlines and points based on classroom circumstances. Ultimately it is the responsibility of every student to complete their required work on time.
Assessment Plan
Assessment of student learning will be accomplished through the use of, but not limited to, the following methods: participation, class work, group work, projects, quizzes, unit and semester tests.
Tests/Projects = 55%
Quizzes = 15%
Class work = 15%
Participation = 15%
Parental Communication/Collaboration
As an educator, I believe that cooperation and collaboration between students, parents and teachers is important in student achievement and learning. I intend to communicate with parents as much as possible for both positive items and areas of concern. In order to do this it would be helpful if parents would provide information about the preferred method of communication and the appropriate times. It is not possible to contact every parent on a regular basis to provide feedback on every project, lesson or assignment that is done in the classroom. Therefore it is important that student and parent check progress on Skyward Family Access on a regular basis (grades will be updated on a weekly basis). If there are problems or concerns please feel free to contact me via email here at school (email is on the school website: //www.wittbirn.k12.wi.us/) or by phone. The best times to contact me are between 8:15-8:45 during my first hr. preparation period, or after school.
Classroom Expectations
I approach class as an opportunity for each student to learn. It is my expectation that students take their participation and learning seriously. I expect students to be Respectful by not interrupting the learning process, using polite language and treating their classmates as they would wish to be treated. I will treat each student as an individual worthy of respect unless actions would prove otherwise. Students also need to be Responsible for their actions and use their time wisely and plan ahead/prepare for class. I feel that most problems that arise in class can be solved by discussing them as responsible people.
Classroom Materials
Students will be provided with supplemental and contemporary readings. A variety of multimedia resources will be used and internet access will be required for some research, projects and activities. Computers with internet access are provided at school, but the class would be greatly facilitated by internet access at home as well (not required). The most important thing to bring to class is an open mind, a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Extra Help
Any student who feels they need extra help can set up a time to go over the material during my 1st hr. preparation period, or before or after school.
Cut on the line below and return
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* Please acknowledge that you have read and understand this syllabus. You can do this by signing below. It would also be helpful if parents provided their preferred method of communication and the best times to be reached.
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Signature of Parent/Legal Guardian___________________________ Date_____/_____/_____
Preferred method of communication and best times to contact
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