<p>*Keep as the 1st page in your binder* Ms. Dodge/Ms. Finsmith: US History </p><p>Dear Students and Parents, Welcome to US History and junior year! Please read the following information so that you know what is expected throughout the coming year. Both the student and parent should sign the agreement form on the second sheet and return to us no later than Friday September 8th. </p><p>Course Introduction: US History is a full year course designed to provide students with a culminating survey of the major forces in their nation’s history. By examining a series of “enduring issues” in our nation’s past, students should develop an understanding of basic constitutional issues and principles, as well as, the cultural heritage upon which our nation is founded. Students are expected to complete the assigned class work, homework, and pass course exams. The final exam for this course is a Regents exam which counts as 1/5 of the final course average. </p><p>Course Objectives: - Prepare students for the Regents examination in U.S. History & Government - Study major themes in American History from the founding of the first colonies to the present - Develop analytical and interpretive skills - Reinforce study skills - Create a greater awareness of both the world role of a major nation and the individual role of a responsible citizen - Develop a life-long interest in the discipline of history</p><p>* The students must pass this course in order to be eligible for a high school diploma and graduation.*</p><p>Regents Exam Part I – contains 50 multiple choice questions Part II – contains 1 Thematic Essay Part III – contains 1 DBQ Essay</p><p>Materials: Loose-leaf 3 ring Binder – students are expected to keep a separate notebook for US History which is to be kept in order and brought to class each day. A separate section should be dedicated to writing. Pens (blue or black ink) Pencils</p><p>Classroom Expectations: 1) Be on time  in your seat and ready to work before the bell rings. </p><p>2) Respect  me, your classmates, and yourself. Our classroom will be a safe and comfortable learning environment for all students to participate. Put downs, inappropriate language, and negative comments will NOT be tolerated.</p><p>3) Cheating will not be tolerated. You will receive a zero and a call home. 4) If we see/hear a cell phone, IPOD/MP3 player, or other electronic device IT WILL BE TURNED INTO AN ADMINISTRATOR. 5) Homework – Students will have 2 or 3 assignments per week. Homework will be collected, graded, and included as part of the course grade. All homework should be turned in on time. Any late work that is not reviewed or discussed in class may be accepted for half credit. </p><p>6) Testing – unit tests and quizzes will be given throughout the year. Quizzes will be based on homework, videos viewed in class, and class notes/discussion. Tests will be based on all class material. Advanced warning will be given for unit exams.</p><p>7) Make up work - If you missed school for either illness or a family emergency, you will have 3 days from when you return to make up any missed work. YOU are responsible to obtain any missed work; CALL GUIDANCE and they will notify teachers and gather work to be picked up. Students will not be allowed to make up work for illegal absences. * If you are LEGALLY absent for a test, it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to pick up the check your folder for information. You are then to take the exam at the TEST TABLE during a free period within 3 days of your return. After 3 days a score of ZERO will be given*</p><p>8) Extra Help – Ms. Dodge is in the Social Studies office (Rm. 223) and Ms. Finsmith is in the Special Ed office (Rm.113) by 7:20am each day. We can also be available after school by appointment. If you have any questions/concerns please feel free to come and see us. </p><p>Grading: Tests (50-100pts), Projects (50-100pts), Quizzes (25-50 pts), Classwork (15-25), Homework (10-15pts), Participation (5pts)</p><p>How to succeed in US History: If you come to class with a positive attitude, complete your work with care, participate in class, and see us if extra help is needed you will do well in this course. Remember, we are here to help you, not hurt your grade, but you need to do your part in order to succeed!! </p><p>Parents: Feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have. We can be contacted at [email protected] or 897-6700 ext 30064 and [email protected] or 897-6700 ext 30088. E-mail is best as our extensions are office phones. Please sign up for “Remind” for assignment updates.</p><p>Website: http://www.wappingersschools.org//Domain/1181 or http://www.wappingersschools.org//Domain/1309 Sincerely, Ms. Dodge and Ms. Finsmith Please sign and return, signifying you have read the course information provided, no later than Friday _____/_____.</p><p>Student Name: ______Student Signature: ______</p><p>Parent/Guardian Name:______</p><p>Parent/Guardian Signature:______</p><p>Please provide me with the telephone number or e-mail address that is best to contact you at in regard to your child’s progress in this course. </p>