U.S. History I
Course Syllabus
Mr. Fischer MLHS 2007-2008
Course Description
An understanding of the history and cultural development of the United States is necessary for enlightened citizenship. Since democracy depends upon an intelligent electorate, knowledge of U.S. History is vital. This is a survey course covering the political, economic, and cultural development of the United States from the colonization of North America to the present. It is a lecture-discussion course with ample use of outside materials and videos as well as simulation games. U.S. History is required for graduation and may be taken as a junior or senior. College-bound students may elect Advanced Placement U.S. History rather than the general course.
Course Objectives
The primary objective of this course is that the students will learn about the origins of our country and how the United States became the country it is today. The students will learn the differences and similarities between the various ethnic groups within the U.S., and how the groups influenced those around them.
The reasons for growth and expansion in the U.S. will be discussed along with the problems caused by western movement. Major political, military, business, and other famous figures in the history of the U.S. will be discussed and the positive/negative effects each person had on the country. The major wars, battles, and conflicts the U.S. was involved in will be discussed, as will the direct results of the fighting that occurred.
Lastly, the students will illustrate how the history of the U.S. has affected the world they live in today and themselves as well. We will be exploring the past, but always looking at how the past relates to the present as well. There is much debate about events occurring in the world today, so students need to keep up with the news as some class time will be used to employ historical methods to analyze what they are hearing and reading.
Materials Needed
· Text – The Americans (2007) – By: Gerald Danzer, J. Jorge Klor de Alva, Nancy Woloch, & Louis E. Wilson,
· Blue or Black ink pens/or pencils
· Paper – loose leaf is preferred
· Notebook – will be used for notes and assignments
· Three-ring binder: this binder is an important study tool that MUST be brought to all classes. All materials should be clearly dated and kept in chronological order. Materials to be included: Lecture and class notes, worksheets, handouts, and all homework assignments.
Grades
· Participation=5%
· Homework=15%
· Quizzes=15%
· Projects=20%
· Tests=30%
· Final Exam=15%
*There will be NO extra credit in this class.
Grading Scale:
95-100% A
93-94% A-
91-92% B
87-90% B
85-86% B-
83-84% C
79-82% C
77-78% C-
75-76% D
72-74% D
70-71% D-
Below 70% F
Tests & Quizzes
1. Tests will be objective with some essay questions.
2. If you miss a test during the semester, an alternative test must be taken within one
week of returning to school.
3. If you missed a test or quiz because you were absent, you will be given one day for
each day absent. If not a “0” will be given for the missed test/quiz.
4. Field trip absences do NOT excuse a student from taking the test/quiz on the day the
student comes back.
5. Retakes may be taken on tests only. The test will not be the same as the first test taken and the
retake score will be averaged with the first test score. To retake a test you must meet the following
criteria:
1. You must have had all homework, and assignments completed
and turned in by due dates.
2. You must correct the mistakes on your test.
3. Meet with an instructor to answer questions.
Complete retake within two weeks of original test date or six week grading period.
Homework
1. Homework is due at the beginning of class to receive full credit.
2. Late assignments may be turned in before a chapter is completed for half
credit.
3. If getting work done becomes a problem the teacher can use the school Academic
Action Plan to help the student improve.
4. If you are absent for any reason you must still turn in your work or make up the
assignment. You will be given one day for each day absent. If it is still late it will be ½
off.
5. All assignments will be posted on the Social Studies web page under "Mr. Fischer's
assignments".
Projects
1. Each student will be required to complete two projects during the course of the
semester.
2. The first project will entail writing a report on the Revolutionary War- what occurred,
who was involved, what events led up to it, could it have been avoided, and its
immediate and long-term effects (a separate handout will give more information on
both projects). Due November 5th
3. The second project will involve reading the book Uncle Tom’s Cabin and writing a
report on what the book is about, who the author was, why it was written, its impact
on society at the time, and your opinion of the book. Due January 7th
4. Each project will account for 10% of your semester grade.
Participation
1. You are expected to be prompt to class and in your seat before the bell rings.
2. Bring all appropriate materials to class (book, 3 ring binder, paper, pen, homework).
3. Show evidence that you have read the assignments.
4. Participate in class discussions to help clarify the materials.
5. Work with classmates to help generate new ideas and stimulate learning.
Final Exam
At the end of the semester there will be a cumulative final exam worth 15% of your final grade.
Absence Policy
1. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to find out what you missed and make it
up. You will have one week.
2. If you know that you will be absent, get assignments before the anticipated absence.
3. Work will not be made up if a student deliberately cuts class.
Attendance Policy
1. If you are not in your seat when the bell rings you are considered tardy.
2. THREE TARDIES per unit will lower your grade by 5%.
3. THREE UNEXCUSED ABSENCES per unit will lower your grade 10%.
Cheating
If a student is found cheating on any test, quiz, project or assignment the result will be a “0” given for the work. The student will then go to the Dean of Students where the Academic Integrity Policy will be enacted.
Extra Help
1. I will be available before school at 7:30 (Tues-Fri) and after school on most days until 4:00 unless coaching.
2. IF YOU ARE HAVING DIFFICULTIES, PLEASE SEE ME.
Contact Info:
Off periods – 1st Semester – 3 & 6
2nd Semester – 1 & 5
Email-
School Phone – 414-461-6000 ext 265
Room Number- 204
Class Expectations:
1. Treat people with dignity and respect
2. Care about others
3. Follow policies and procedures
4. Be on time and ready for class
5. Perform to the best of your ability
6. Save eating & drinking for the cafeteria (except for water)
Emergency Rules:
Fire – Use Southwest Doors
Tornado – Walk quietly to freshmen hallway
Medical – inform teacher first, go to office
Unit Themes:
1 – American Beginnings to 1783
-Chapters 1-4
2 – A New Nation (1781-1850)
-Chapters 5-8
3 – An Era of Growth and Disunion (1825-1877)
-Chapters 9-12
4 – Migration and Industrialization (1877-1917)
-Chapters 14 & 16
5 – Modern America Emerges (1890-1920)
-Chapters 18 & 19
6 – The 1920s and the Great Depression (1919-1940)
-Chapters 21-23
7 – World War II and Its Aftermath (1931-1960)
-Chapters 24-27
8 – Living with Great Turmoil (1954-1975)
-Chapters 28-30
9 – Passage to a New Century (1968-Present)
-Chapters 32-34
Teaching Cues:
Class will start when someone goes to the podium and does the devotion.