American Government/Civics

American Government/Civics

Classroom Rules and Syllabus

Dr. Oscar Ceron

Phone: (706) 650-6040

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COURSE DESCRIPTION

American Government Grade Level: 9-12 Status: Required Core

This course provides an in-depth study of the American political system. It focuses on the foundation, principles and structure of the American system of government; examines the roles of political parties and social factors as they relate to the role of the citizen; and analyzes the decision-making processes that are a part of the system of American political behavior. This course meets the state’s Citizenship/Government requirement for graduation.

COURSE GOALS

As a result of this course, students will:

Develop effective communication skills using a variety of written and oral assignments.
Develop critical thinking skills by teaching students to analyze and critique primary historical sources.
Gain proficiency in researching, and in wise use of technology.
Understand the events of the past responsible for shaping the world today.

ASSIGNMENTS

Grading will occur on a variety of assignments including reading, creative writing or various short essay assignments, active class participation is encouraged, group work, hands-on projects, unit tests, quizzes, presentations, study guides for tests, and video/DVD viewing, homework, etc. Pre-reading of the text assigned as homework is essential to be prepared for class and discussions as this will be part of classwork grade and evaluation. Pre-reading may be assigned as homework and will include a variety of forms.

SUPPLIES

1 inch binder
Pens/pencils
Lined paper for binder

EVALUATION CRITERIA (Grading)

Summative Assessments (Standards Tests, Major Projects) 70%
Other Assessments (Quizzes, In-class Projects, In-class Written Assignments) 30%

ATTENDANCE POLICY

Regular and prompt class attendance is an essential part of the educational experience. Greenbrier High School expects students to exercise good judgment regarding attendance and absences. Students will accept full responsibility for ensuring their work does not suffer because of absences. Exceptions may be made for illness and valid emergencies. Being tardy to class will be noted and enforced following the school’s attendance tardy policy. Students are highly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the school’s attendance/tardy policies. Ignorance is not an excuse.

LATE WORK

All homework assignments are expected to be turned-in on the due date. If a student is absent, the assignments are to be turned-in upon returning to school. If a student is absent multiple days (more than 2), it is the responsibility of the student to get assignments missed and he/she will have 5 days to turn in.

CLASSROOM RULES

Posted in classroom. Consequences will follow when lack of cooperation and failure to follow rules occur.

CELL PHONES

While cell phones can be great tools for learning when used appropriately, cell phones also can become very disruptive that can take away from an effective learning environment. In an effort to minimize distractions, maximize classroom instruction and learning opportunities and to eliminate behavior issues, phones will not be allowed in my classroom. Students must always keep their phones in the book bags. Therefore, I ask parents to encourage their students to keep their phones away and to not text or call students during your child’s classes to eliminate the possibility of unauthorized use. In accordance with school policy, failure to follow the class rules is Willful Refusal and consequences will follow.