World History

Period 2 - Room 3

Mr. Wood
CWood@BitneyPrep.net

Learning Goals

Our goal is to obtain an overall and in-depth understanding of the History of the World.  We will do our best to dispel myths and retell individual histories by using primary sources and drawing upon the most recent writings on the subject. Hopefully your goal is to be as inquisitive and curious as possible so that you gain a better understanding of the origins of the world around you.

Student Expectations

I believe that students know what is, and is not, correct classroom conduct.  I would like to make a few points clear, however. 

Students are expected to:    

1. Arrive in class promptly.
2. Come to class prepared with pen or pencil, notebook, textbook and any other required class materials.
3. Make proper use of class time.
4. Respond when called upon.
5. Leave all food and drink outside the classroom.  Absolutely no food or drink is allowed in the classroom.
6. Students are expected to behave respectfully towards the instructor and toward fellow students. Behavior that is inappropriate to the classroom may result in permanent removal from the class.  I do not tolerate put-downs nor derogatory language of any kind in my classes.  When in doubt, use common sense. The ultimate responsibility for each studentís education lies in his/her hands.
7. Do not bring any electronic devices out into the classroom or they will be confiscated and held until the end of the session.

Assignments

Assignments are due on the date given.  Late assignments will not receive credit.  I do not accept late work. 

Cheating Policy

Assignments are due on the date given.  Late assignments will not receive credit.  I do not accept late work. 

Requirements for Passing

In order to pass this class you must do the following: 

1. Pass the Mid-Term and Final Examinations                                                  
2. Pass Various Map Tests - Because geography is an integral part of history, as we navigate through this course, you will be expected to identify countries, nations, empires, regions, cities, etc...
3. Complete the Project Presentation (First Semester) - The Project Presentation will be discussed in greater detail at a later date.   
4. Participate in Discussions and Present Articles of Interest - Articles of Interest will be presented every other Wednesday.  Find an article in a newspaper, a magazine or on-line, that somehow connects to what we have studied or will study in this class.  Fill out the Article Analysis Abstract Form and turn it in for credit after you have presented it to the class.  This is part of your participation grade.  These articles are a chance for us to discuss the past and how it affects us today. 
5. Maintain a Notebook on Lectures & Readings - You must keep notes in a Notebook or 3 ring Binder.  Your Notebook will include notes taken during lectures, the course outline and syllabus, returned homework, quizzes and exams and Article Forms from Weds. presentations.   Notebooks will be checked at various times during the course for a grade.  Each Lecture must have a clear title and date of entry.  For Example:  Lecture #1  History,  August 26, 2004
   
   Your Notebook will be graded on the following criteria: 
   1. Neatness and organization
   2. Clear divisions:  Lecture Notes, Articles, Returned Work, Handouts
   3. Complete Number of Assignments, Articles and Lecture
      (If you are absent, make sure you copy the notes from a peer)
      
6. Pass the Bi-Weekly Quizzes and Complete Daily Homework Assignments - Quizzes will focus on that weeks lectures, homework and/or in class discussions.  Homework will be assigned on a regular basis.  I expect homework answers to be in your own words (not copied verbatim from the reading or your neighbor) and written in complete, coherent sentences.  ìYesî  and ìNoî answers will not be accepted.
7. Answers to Video Questions - Each  documentary video that you view in class will be accompanied by questions.  These are to be answered and turned in at the end of the video.  This means you need to pay close attention to details.
8. Complete a Term Paper (Second Semester) - To be discussed at a later date.

How Grades are Computed

Points earned will be based on daily work, notebooks, quizzes, tests, participation  and projects.  Your grade will be based on the percentage of points earned.  Grading is cumulative throughout the semester and is based on an absolute percentage.

Homework and class assignments are typically worth 10-20 points, quizzes 20-50 points, projects and tests, 50-100 points.

	Assignment Categories				Letter Grades
	Notebook		10%		A: 90% and above B: 80% and above C: 70% and above D: 65% and above F: below 65%
	Participation, articles & homework		30%
	Project, presentation, quizzes & tests		60%

Please keep this course outline and policies in your notebook and refer to it from time to time as the need arises.