World Studies I
2009-2010

This course will cover significant places and events in world history from the human origins in Africa through the fall of the Roman Empire.  We will be using a variety of curricular materials including the exciting InspirED and History Alive! curricula, which utilize cooperative learning, multiple intelligence teaching strategies, group problem solving, writing and reading for understanding, and experiential exercises to cover key social studies concepts. Throughout the year, we will focus on common themes such as ideas that shaped history: cultural practices, religions, governments, trade, philosophies, and the artistic expression of these civilizations that developed and shaped the course of world history.  In addition to looking to the ancient past, we will also discover how these ancient societies have influenced the world that we now inhabit, and what some of the most pressing issues facing these regions are today.  We shall also focus on improving writing and reading skills, and learning by utilizing multiple learning styles, creative and critical thinking, and community development.

Expectations

Expectations of you:

• Be in class on time and ready to work.
• Come to class with all appropriate materials:
• Social Studies binder
• Homework
• Pen or pencil
• Daily Planner (book to write assignments and events in)
• Positive attitude, and a willingness to have fun, take risks and learn!
• Respect ALL ideas expressed by students in the class.
• Participate on a daily basis by asking questions and sharing ideas.
• Turn in assignments on time.
• If you are absent or are late with an assignment, it is your responsibility to talk to the teacher and make up the work missed.
• Have fun, learn, and strive to make a difference.

Your expectations of me:

• Respect ALL of your ideas and try to answer your questions.
• Be available everyday for help with homework, projects and studying.
• Provide study sheets with relevant information and important questions for each unit we explore.
• Provide appropriate notice and time for projects and formal assessments.
• Get your work back to you in a timely fashion.
• Listen and be flexible when it is needed.
• Be sensitive to your individual needs and learning styles.
• Have fun!

Grades

PVPA’s non-traditional grading system mandates that students demonstrate completion of all work at a minimum level of competency (what other schools would grade as a “B”).  Students, who are interested, are encouraged to work at higher levels of competence (“A” of Honors). Thus, students develop tools to learn and become responsible and motivated learners.

Class Participation:

• All students must participate in class activities on a daily basis.
• Attendance is very important and you cannot participate if you are not in class.
• On time and prepared for class with the necessary materials.
• Participate by asking questions, providing constructive comments, seeking after-school help, and emailing questions when needed.

At Home and School Learning

• At Home learning is an extension of what is learned in the classroom.
• Assessed based on quality of writing, effort, completeness, and neatness.
• At Home learning must have a proper title, your name and date.
• 20 Absences (for the quarter/semester), five unexcused absences, and/or the inability to demonstrate a minimum level of competency will result in a loss of credit for the course.

Essays, Quizzes and other Assessments

• Quizzes will be given periodically to review concepts you have read.
• Essays will be assessed based on organization, content, spelling and grammar.
• If absent, quizzes should be made up within three days of school.

Projects and Formal Assessments

• All directions and expectations will be given prior to any completion dates.
• Assessments will include key terms, definitions and concepts from the topics studies.
• If absent, assignment should be made up within five school days.
• Projects will be conducted on an individual and group basis at the end of learning units.