Mr. Bartletti
U.S. History Course Syllabus
Course Description
U.S. History is set up to help students develop the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate and interpret the connection between the events in our nation’s past with each other and the world we currently live in. Students will be required to focus on cause/effect relationships as well as increase their knowledge of significant periods in our national development. The class will focus on the time periods from colonial and pre-colonial America up through WWII.
Course Goals
The main objective of this course is to provide students with a base of knowledge about the evolution of our nation from its inception up until the mid 20th century. It will also focus on developing the ability to use information to form educated opinions and insights concerning our national policies. The class will also try to foster a method of note taking and organization which will aid in the assimilation and transfer of knowledge/information, as well as facilitate the ability of students to work together in groups to create meaning from classroom materials and instruction.
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: 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 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 a Textbook and supplemental readings. A variety of multimedia resources will be used and internet access will be required for some research 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 first hour preparation period or before or after school.
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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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