American History - Syllabus

Instructor Mr. Evan Cardwell E- [email protected] mail Phone 361-242-5672 ext. 6402 Office 5th period conference 1:00-1:40 Hours Office Room 402

Text: Pearson Texas: “United States History” colonization through reconstruction

Description: The content builds upon that from Grade 5 but provides more depth and breadth. Historical content focuses on the political, economic, and social events and issues related to the colonial and revolutionary eras, the creation and ratification of the U.S. Constitution, challenges of the early Republic, westward expansion, sectionalism, Civil War, and Reconstruction. Students describe the physical characteristics of the United States and their impact on population distribution and settlement patterns in the past and present. Students analyze the various economic factors that influenced the development of colonial America and the early years of the Republic and identify the origins of the free enterprise system. Students examine the American beliefs and principles, including limited government, checks and balances, federalism, separation of powers, and individual rights, reflected in the U.S. Constitution and other historical documents. Students evaluate the impact of Supreme Court cases and major reform movements of the 19th century and examine the rights and responsibilities of citizens of the United States as well as the importance of effective leadership in a democratic society. Students evaluate the impact of scientific discoveries and technological innovations on the development of the United States. (1607-1877)

On May 12, 2016 all students will take the 8th grade Social Studies STAAR test. It is clear after reading the description of the course that the class is challenging and fast paced. By that date everyone will be knowledgeable and well prepared. Expectations are high that everyone will be very successful. In order to ensure that success, the following procedures and rules will be followed.

1) Everyone should be prepared daily with a binder that includes a history tab divider or a folder, clean notebook paper, and a blue/black ink pen or pencil.

2) Each student should have map pencils that can be brought to class at appropriate times.

3) Students are expected to keep all history notes, assignments, and tests in their binder history section for an entire nine week grading period. 4) Textbooks can be checked out as needed from teacher. Class sets will be utilized in class.

5) All students are expected to be in their assigned seats ready to learn when the tardy bell rings.

6) When absent a student has as many days as he/she was absent to make up all missed assignments; however the student is encouraged to make up work as soon as possible to prevent them from getting further behind.

7) Missed tests must be made up during tutorial time (8:00-8:25). Students who are present the day of a major test review but are absent the day of the test are expected to make up the test during tutoring time the very first day they return to school.

8) Grades will be calculated according to the guidelines in the student handbook.

9) Students are required to put an appropriate heading on all assignments. All assignments should be kept as neat as possible with no doodling or original designs added.

10) A daily class agenda will be available every day for the student.

11) Students are expected to follow both school and classroom rules at all times. All students are expected to be courteous and respectful to everyone- adults and fellow students.