Survey of U.S. History I Course Guidelines- Fall 2009
Mr. Nussbaum
Room: 254 E-MAIL: anussbau@usd497.org PHONE #: (785) 832-6050 ex. 1431 WEBSITE: http://nussworld.blogspot.com
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is the general American history survey course for all juniors except those who have chosen to take Advanced Placement U.S. History. This course provides a chronological look at American society and culture from the Civil War through World War II. It addresses the major historical issues of this period which include the nature of history and contemporary issues. Successful completion of this course is a requirement for graduation from Lawrence Free State High School.
CLASS OBJECTIVES 1. Identify and demonstrate understanding of the six reading strategies, six traits of writing, research skills, and ability to interpret maps,
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. charts, graphs, picture, and diagrams. Discuss the causes of the U.S. Civil War and explain the social, political, and economic effects of the war and Reconstruction that followed. Explain the social, political, and economic effects of the Industrial Revolution. (encompasses populism, progressivism, and immigration.) Explain the emergence of the United States in international affairs at the turn of the 20th century. (encompasses the Spanish-American War, imperialism, and World War I.) Demonstrate an understanding of the social conflicts (race, gender, and class) during the Roaring Twenties. Discuss the causes and major events of the Great Depression and explain the social, political, and economic effects of the Great Depression. Discuss the causes and major events of World War II and explain the social, political, and economic effects of the war.
TEXT
The Americans: Reconstruction to the 21st Century. Gerald A. Danzer, et al.
GRADING SYSTEM
80% Exams, Quizzes, Papers 20% Class Participation, assignments, in-class work, review questions 90%-100% = A; 80%-89% = B; 70%-79% = C; 60%-69% = D; below 59% = F
CLASS PARTICIPATION
The class participation grade will be determined by the effort that you put forth in class. Each of you will start the semester with 250 class participation points. Failure to do what you are asked to do (and this requirement encompasses many things) will result in the loss of five participation points for each day’s noncompliance. Additionally, failure to prepare for class, as evidenced through the use of quizzes, may also result in the loss of participation points. Do what is asked of you and keep 100% of your participation points. Fail to comply with expectations, and you will see those points dwindle. Word of caution: Please note there will be no “traditional” homework assignments that you turn in for a grade. So, the only part of your grade that is not exams, papers, and projects is your class participation grade. I’m giving you an A on 20% of your grade just by meeting expectations of appropriate student academic behavior. Don’t blow it!
ATTENDANCE/TARDY POLICY
Refer to Student Handbook
ASSIGNMENTS
*Remember these assignments will not be graded on completion. These assignments are meant to be used as tools to learn the material, the objectives, and the essential skills and knowledge.
Reading assignments will be given on a daily basis. Maps, charts, activity sheets and guided reading questions will be used to supplement the text. Notes should be taken over material given in class—may be checked if needed. Small presentations, group discussion, etc… (Do not miss these, as there is no REAL way of making up a missed experience)
EXAMS/QUIZZES EXTRA CREDIT [Supplemental Enrichment] CLASSROOM RULES Do what’s right! Do not interfere with teaching or with learning! Be prepared for class everyday! WONDER, CHALLENGE, ACT, SEEK, RESPECT Do your best!