U.S. Skills
United States History Basic Skills
Semester Two
Eleanor Barbino
Course Content
This course will discuss the events in U.S. History from Civil War through the
early the 20th Century. Other units of study will include the
Reconstruction, Progressive Era, Imperialism, WWI, the Depression, WWII, the
Cold War and other 20th Century events
This course is designed for improving your social studies skills. Reading, writing, outlining, and speaking will be the major skills targeted. We will gradually build upon these and other skills throughout the semester.
Text
Your primary text is Why We Remember. Students are responsible for
returning the SAME book they are issued. Hefty fines will result for lost or
damaged books. Book covers are mandatory at all times.
Evaluation
You will be graded on everything you do. I always expect you to strive to do
your best in and out of the classroom. Your grade will be determined by a
cumulative amount of points in the following categories:
Notes
You will be required to maintain a spiral notebook with all your class notes.
This notebook will be just for U.S. History. You will be allowed to use
your notes for most tests, so take good notes. You will also receive a grade
for your notes at the end of each unit. It will be approximately 10% of your
grade. We will slowly be weaning you off your notes for tests.
Quizzes
Pop quizzes will be frequent and unannounced. You will NOT be able to use your
notes for them.
Tests
Tests are given about every two weeks. They are short answer essay tests. The
material will be taken from notes, discussions, homework, films, and just about
everything we do in class.
The Final
There will be a big and nasty final in June. It will cover everything we do.
It will be worth 10% of your semester grade.
90=A 80=B 70=C 60=D 59=F
1st Qtr= 45% 2nd Qtr=45% Final =10%
Just a small reminder.... This class is required for graduation
General Expectations:
· Treat your teachers, classmates and substitute teachers with the respect you would expect yourselves.
· There is absolutely NO FOOD or DRINK allowed in the classroom. Students coming to class with either will be required to throw it away and will receive a reprimand the first time and detention for each additional offence.
· The dress code will be strictly enforced in this class.
· I-Pods and cell phones are forbidden. If I SEE an I-pod, the wires from head phones, or a cell phone, it will result in an automatic referral. NO EXCEPTIONS
· Come to class prepared. Students arriving in class without text books, note books or pencils will loose points and will be marked late should they have to get their things from their lockers.
· Raise your hand when you wish to speak so that we can listen to what you have to say. No student should speak while I or another student is speaking.
· Regular attendance is a key part of your chance to succeed in this class. Activities, lectures and discussions are prepared to help pass the exams and the class overall. Excessive absences will be discussed in the dean’s office.
· Tardiness will not be tolerated. Be in class and seated when the bell rings.
· Once the bell has rung to start the class, you will have 30 seconds to finish your conversations and settle down after which I expect silence
· Once class has begun, there should be no need to leave the room unless it is an emergency. Students who must use the restroom during class will be required to make up the time (15 minutes) before or after school.
· If you sleep in this class, your participation grade will suffer and you may receive a detention.
· You will remain in your seat, working until the dismissal bell has rung. DO NOT BEGIN to pack up your things early or line up at the door.
· Do not complain about the assignments or activities. Each is planned to help you better understand history and hone your academic skills. Reading, writing and public speaking are essential elements for a successful future.
· We will frequently have group assignments. Your participation and cooperation in group assignments is crucial to the success of these activities. Any student who does not behave well with the group or fails to remain focused on the activity will receive detention.
· If you would like to talk to me about a grade on an assignment or in the class in general, you must come to the social studies office before or after school. I will not be giving out grade sheets as all grades are available on the new i-parent system. Before coming to discuss your grade, you must access it on i-parent and have specific questions or concerns. I am more than happy to help you succeed in this class, but you must show some initiative.
Class Participation
I expect ALL students to be ACTIVE learners in our classroom. It is up to you
to make a positive mark on your teacher and your classmates. Come to class with
a positive attitude, ready to learn. All put-downs, disruptive behavior, and
negatives in general are not welcome in our classroom.
Student’s Responsibility
Your job as a member of our class is that of an open-minded learner. Your
energies will be spent becoming more aware and educated about the world in which
you live.
Teacher’s Responsibility
My responsibility to you is to provide a safe, freethinking atmosphere to learn
and to provide learning activities that will challenge you to become better
citizens of the world. Do not complain about the activities and assignments
provided for your learning experience. Each is designed to help you understand
the subject matter and hone your academic skills.
Contacting Me
If you need help, I am available before and after school. The best way to
contact me is by email. My email address is ebarbino@naperville203.org
Conclusion
I sincerely hope each of you each of you learns a great deal about your nation’s past. The story of United States history is both exciting and unique. If you work hard, meet me at least halfway, and share your thoughts, ideas and opinions (where appropriate) and complete assignments on time, success is guaranteed.