Welcome to American History Class 2011-2012!

Teacher: Ms. Kathy Castillo

The objective of this class is for you to gain a knowledge and understanding of American History by examining political, economic, social, and cultural developments from the post-Civil War period to recent times. You will see the connection between the past and present and better understand current events in the United States. You will also be exposed to new ways of thinking about American history – going beyond memorizing names and dates and figuring out why things happened the way they did.

Conte nt
Unit One: Geography
Unit Two: Native Americans of the United States
Unit Three: Early European Settlements of North America
Unit Four: Colonization and Conflict
Unit Five: The American Revolution
Unit Six: The Civil War
Unit Seven: Immigrants and Immigration

Grading Policy

On Task 15%
Homework / Notebook/ 15%
Pop Quizzes 10%
Projects or Expositions 10%
Tests/Quizzes 50%

Classroom Expectations:
The following factors are important to being successful in school:

Punctuality
Neatness
Responsibility
Respect
Enthusiasm and good attitude towards learning

1. Raise your hand to ask questions or participate in class.
2. No wandering, students are to stay at their desks.
3. Respect school authorities and classmates.
4. Bring your materials to class.
5. No side conversations. Be attentive in class.

Make sure to copy daily homework, tests dates and projects due dates from the board
When having problems understanding any class material, ask your teacher or a classmate.
Make sure you do your homework on a daily basis, study for tests and turn in projects on time.

Notebook Policies:

A notebook is required for class notes and homework. This notebook is to be used only for American History class.
Every time you come to class you are to label the top of your notebook page with the date and subject.

Homework Policies

Homework should include subject, date, page and problem numbers, and your name.
Make sure to use a pen when doing your class work and homework.
If you lose your notebook, replace it as soon as possible.
Homework done on separate sheets of paper or in a different notebook will not be accepted, unless I ask for it.
Homework will be assigned regularly, almost on a daily basis.
Homework will be checked at the end of the class period.
According to school’s policy, any assignment not turned in because of excused absences should be made up and presented to the teacher. You are responsible to turn in your work to me when absent.

On-Task Behavior:

On-task behavior in class will include completing assigned class work and bringing in required materials.
On-task behavior includes behaving appropriately during class and being punctual.
On-task behavior will be recorded on a daily basis.

Test and Quiz Policies:

Formal assessments will be applied on a weekly basis. Unannounced pop quizzes will also be given to students, with the purpose of checking progress and motivating daily practice.
During examinations, no talking and exchange of materials will be allowed. This is considered cheating.
Honesty is expected when taking tests. Cheating will be punished according to school policies.
Make sure you work in pen always when doing class work or taking tests and quizzes.

Projects:

Projects will be assigned depending on the topic viewed.
A rubric will be given at the start of each project. In it you will find a description of all the elements required for the project. Make sure you follow it when working on your project.

Materials: