Dickerson Middle School

6th Grade Social Studies 2015-2016

Mr. Whitworth Ms. Carlton (1st, 2nd and 3rd Period)

Course Goal: The purpose of Social Studies is to help students develop the ability to make informed and reasoned decisions for the public good as citizens of a society which is culturally diverse, democratic, and globally interdependent. Using the information attained in this class, the students will be better world citizens and more able to help ease suffering in the world.

Contact: The best way to contact us is by our e-mail which is listed above.

Students should bring the following supplies to class every day:

-  1.5 inch 3 ring binder with inside pocket(s) and 2 dividers

-  Notebook paper

-  Pencil and pen

-  Colored pencils

-  Agenda Book

-  A sweater or some form of warm clothing is recommended because it is quite cool in my room.

Course Content: In 6th grade, students begin the study of the following major world regions: Europe, Latin America, Canada, and Australia. Within each region, we will focus on historical developments, geography, government, culture, and economic development.

Grading and Evaluation:

Tests/ Projects: 40%

Quizzes: 30%

Classwork/Graded Assignments: 20%

Homework: 10%

Each student is required to keep his or her binder current at all times. Failure to maintain an organized notebook will result in adverse behavior marks. With the exception of illness, religious observances, and family emergencies, late work is only accepted one day after the due date for half credit.

Absences: STUDENTS are responsible for obtaining and making up any work missed while absent. Remember to check the blog and the “Make up work?” shelf in the classroom to obtain work. According to school policy, students will have one day to make up work for each day absent.

Resources:

Student Agenda

Students should have all assignments and class activities written in their agenda daily.

Teacher Blog

The blog is an excellent resource for students and parents and will be updated daily. The blog can be accessed through the Dickerson web page.

Synergy

Synergy is an online grading system which allows students and parents to keep track of student grades.

Online Study Resources

I will provide online study resources on the blog throughout the year.

Student Expectations

1.  Respect others and materials in the classroom

2.  Be on time, prepared, and arrive with necessary supplies and materials.

3.  Follow directions and stay on task

4.  Be a friend and demonstrate the “Golden Rule.”

5.  Maintain an organized notebook

6.  Bring and update your agenda book

I suggest that every student read “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective Students.” Copies of this book can be found in the library. Here is a summary of the seven habits provided by Stephen R. Covey. Using these habits will encourage success in this class and in life.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Students

Habit One: Be Proactive

I am a responsible person.

I take initiative.

I choose my actions, attitudes, and moods.

I do not blame others for my wrong actions.

I do the right thing without being asked, even when no one is looking.

Habit Two: Begin with the End in Mind

I plan ahead and set goals

I do things that have meaning and make a difference.

I am an important part of my classroom and contribute to my school’s mission and vision, and look for ways to be a good citizen.

Habit Three: Put First Things First

I spend my time on things that are most important.

This means I say no to things I know I should not do.

I set priorities, make a schedule, and follow my plan.

I am disciplined and organized.

Habit Four: Think Win - Win

I balance courage for getting what I want with consideration for what others want.

I make deposits in others’ Emotional Bank Accounts.

When conflicts arise, I look for third alternatives.

Habit Five: Seek First to Understand, Then to Be Understood

I listen to other people’s ideas and feelings.

I try to see things from their viewpoints.

I listen to others without interrupting.

I am confident in voicing my ideas.

I look people in the eyes when talking.

Habit Six: Synergize

I value other people’s strengths, and learn from them.

I get along well with others, even people who are different than me.

I work well in groups.

I seek out other people’s ideas to solve problems because I know that by teaming with others we can create better solutions than any one of us alone.

I am humble.

Habit Seven: Sharpen the Saw

I take care of my body by eating right, exercising, and getting sleep.

I spend time with my family and friends.

I learn in lots of ways and lots of places, not just at school.

I take time to make meaningful ways to help others.

I use my Agenda Book