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MODERN AMERICAN HISTORY II (1970 - PRESENT): COURSE SYLLABUS
TEACHER: Mr. Potter
PHONE: 439-4320 Ext. 286
E-MAIL: dean.potter@hillsdaleschools.org
Students and Parents,
Welcome to Modern American History II (1970-PRESENT)! This course outline gives you a brief idea of course expectations. Additionally, it will help guide the student towards success. It is my hope that all students will not only meet course expectations but exceed them. I am looking forward to another great semester. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to let me know.
Sincerely,
Mr. Potter
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This Social Studies elective is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the United States from 1970 until today. Students will gain great insight on areas such as culture of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s, Nixon Administration (Vietnam on the home-front and the Watergate Scandal), the end of the Cold War, The Clinton years, America and the Middle East, September 11th 2001 and America now. Students will also interpret United States history socially, economically and politically through primary sources.
KEYS TO SUCCESS
- Students should turn in all assignments when they are due (late assignments will be accepted at half credit; all assignments are due on the second to last Friday before the end of each quarter)
- Students may re-take tests that you failed. I will count the higher of the two grades. Please take these no more than a week after the initial test.
- Students should take advantage of any extra credit opportunities that are given
- Students/parents should continue to monitor grades throughout the quarter through power school.
- Students should use the HIVE after school to get additional help on upcoming tests and/or assignments.
GRADES
Test and Quizzes: 40%
Coursework: 30%
Projects: 25%
Homework: 5%
A 100-93% C+ 79-77% D 66-63%
A- 92-90% C 76-73% D- 62-60%
B+ 89-87% C- 72-70% F 59% and below
B 86-83% D+ 69-67%
B- 82-80%
DAILY ASSIGNMENTS, HOMEWORK, TESTS AND PROJECTS
Daily assignments tend to be about 15 points each. Tests range from 35 to 65 points. Daily work will make up about two-thirds of the total points. Therefore, daily assignments and homework are extremely important.
Homework is due at the beginning of the hour or it is late. Late assignments are half credit. If you are absent, it is the students’ responsibility to get all make up assignments. Tests also need to be made up soon after an absence. Failure to make up a test will result in a failing grade on the test. If you are on a long-term suspension or absent for an extended amount of time, the student must contact me so that the student does not fall further behind in their daily work.
Students who have a low grade (D or E) may be assigned to my lunch period to make up missing assignments. Failure to meet at lunch will result in Saturday detention. Periodically, letters will be sent home (via student) to let the parents know that they are failing. Parents are asked to sign this letter and send it back with student to give to me. Additionally, you can also find all grades through PowerSchool (on-line grading system).
CLASSROOM RULES
1. BE ON TIME
· Arrive in the classroom before the bell rings
· Go directly to seat before bell rings
· 4 tardies = Saturday School
· 5 minutes late to class = 1 unexcused absence
2. BE PREPARED
· Be ready to learn by bringing book, pencil, and notebook EVERYDAY
· Turn homework in on time
· Bring any other material that is asked of you
3. TREAT OTHERS WITH RESPECT
· Students and the teacher will treat each other with respect
· Be quiet when someone is allowed to speak
4. BE IN CLASS
· Go to school everyday!
· See Student/Parent Handbook for more details on attendance
OTHER CLASSROOM RULES/EXPECTIONS
- No pop, candy or food in the classroom (water is allowed)
- No Cell Phone, No headphones, IPOD, other electronic devices in class
(These devices may be taken and given to the principal without warning)
- Dress Code – see handbook for policy
- No bags allowed in class – see handbook for policy
BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT
It is up to my discretion as to which step to take first. Severe discipline problems require principal investigation.
1. Student warning
2. Disciplinary Referral (given to parents/guardian and principal)
3. Lunch Detention, Saturday Detention or Snap Suspension
MATERIALS NEEDED FOR CLASS
1. #2 pencil and/or black or blue ink pen brought EVERYDAY
2. Notebook with white lined paper brought EVERYDAY
3. Folder for assignments/projects
4. Book (a class set will be provided but kept in the classroom)
*** Please sign, date and detach the following and send it back to Mr. Potter ***
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I have read, understand and will follow Mr. Potter’s grading polices and classroom rules for Modern American History II (1970 - PRESENT). My son and daughter will give 100% effort on assignments and studying for tests. Additionally, assignments will be turned in on time.
Parent Signature:
_______________________________ Date: _______________
Student Signature:
______________________________ Date: _______________