Syllabus Honors Economics

Syllabus Honors Economics Cesar Chavez High School 2012-2013 Instructor: Mr. Hamilton

Course description: Honors Economics is a challenging course that is designed to give student an overview of economic systems, terminology and the basics of consumerism. It is a one-semester class that fulfills certain graduation requirements. Solid reading and writing skills, along with a willingness to devote serious time to homework and study, are necessary to be successful. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills, hands on economic projects and the development of a life long understanding of how money works, the value of fiscal planning and common sense. Course objectives: Objectives include mastering a broad body of economic knowledge, demonstrating an understanding of economic theories, using data to support an argument or position, interpreting and applying economic data, analyzing and evaluating economic data from a variety of sources, demonstrating an understanding of cause and effect and compare and contrast, and an ability to work effectively with others to produce products and solve problems. Class organization: Students are responsible for keeping up with reading and writing assignments and being aware of, and prepared for, quizzes and tests. The class will be a combination of lecture, group work, discussions and discussion groups, computer assignments, and daily skills assignments. There are certain assignments that the district requires for you to receive honors credit. Grading and attendance: The grading scale is as follows; 90% = A, 80% = B, 70% = C, 60% = D, below 60% is an F. This scale applies to tests, quizzes, and all assignments. The final exam is worth 15% of your final grade, the benchmark assessments are worth 15%, the reading assessments are worth 10% and the classwork is worth 60%. Attendance in this class is essential. Much of the material is provided through lecture, discussion and in-class assignments. Missing classes can cause problems. I will be following the schools attendance and tardy policies that include calling home and, if necessary, after school detention. Course materials: You are required to have a notebook to keep all of your work in, lined notebook paper, a pen or pencil, and a textbook. You must have these items with you every day!! Course exams: At the end of the semester all students will take a final exam and the district CRT. The district CRT is NOT an “easy” test. There are several tests throughout the semester with essay type questions on each. Students will be tested on Arizona state standards, National Curriculum Standards for Social Studies and College and Career Readiness standards for honors economics. Late work: Deadlines are deadlines whether at high school, college, in business, or anywhere. The only way late work will be accepted is with a personal explanation or parent note as to why the work is late. It is then up to teacher discretion as to whether to accept the work and never for more than 75%. Obviously, if your absence is excused you may turn your assignment in the day that you return at no cost to you. Either bring a note or be sure the absence is excused from the front office. Office Hours: I am available before school between 7 and 7:30, both lunches and after school if you schedule with me ahead of time.