MUSTANG NORTH MIDDLE SCHOOL: COURSE SYLLABUS

Course: Pre-AP 8th Grade American History/Teacher Information: Matthew Mitchell, BA in Social Studies Education, University of Oklahoma (2006-2010) Email:School Phone: 324-2236 Plan Period: 3rd Hour: 10:24-11:11 Textbook Website: connected.mcgraw-hill.com

The following syllabus is a course outline. This syllabus may change at the teacher’s discretion.

Course Outline: This American History class is an investigative trip to uncover the reasoning and causes of how the United States developed from the 13 Colonies through the Civil War.The class will examine relationships, connections, cause and effect, and human behavior. Civics, government, economics, and geography will be embedded into instructional units that correlate with the historic eras that we study.

Pre-AP Objective: Students will acquire and sharpen skills in critical thinking and oral and written communication. Students will master the knowledge necessary to be successful in Advanced Placement classes at the high school level.

Class Expectations: Our class will work together in keeping a safe learning environment every day. Each student will be expected to bring a pencil to class every day. A blue or black ink pen is also encouraged. Students need a 3-ring binder and a spiral notebook.Students will use their spiral for class notes and this will be used in preparation for quizzes/tests. The binder will contain class notes/assignments, and will be helpful in studying for quizzes/ tests. Please bring a great attitude to class everyday as well.

Personal Device Policy: Mustang Public Schools is allowing students to bring personal devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.) to school for enrichment opportunities. It is at the teacher’s discretion when these devices are allowed, and students are subject to consequences in the school handbook for not following instructions.

Assignments/Tests: Assignments will vary throughout the semester. They can and will include: OPTIC, Anticipation Guides, Soapstones, Free Writes, Bell Work, Quizzes, PowerPoint, Research Presentations, Projects, Book Quizzes, Know YO Roll, Notebook Checks, Group Presentation, Current Events, etc. As long as you are focused and pay attention, you will have no issue with knowing when an assignment is due.

Video Policy: I try to bring many visual aids into my classroom. All of the content I show in class will be edited for content. Any student not wishing to watch the clip/video can be given an alternate assignment. Allowing your student to participate during these class exercises enhances his/her learning of the material. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions about this.

How You Earn Your Grade: Every assignment that is graded will be worth a certain number of points (i.e. 10 points, 25 points, etc.). Tests and quizzes will usually range from 75-125 points depending on the amount of material covered. My grading system is a total points system. If 1,000 points are possible and you have 900 total points, then you would receive a 90% or an A for those 9 weeks.

Late Work: Assignments will be accepted one week from the original due date for a score of up to 70%. Extra Credit: Extra Credit work is at my discretion. I will let students know if and when this is available.

Self-Advocacy Policy (A Necessary Life Skill)- 8th grade is an important time to start learning the skills your student will need in high school. One of the most important skills they will need is the ability to advocate for themselves. I very much encourage students to take charge of their own learning. I would like for students to approach me themselves with questions on things such as tests, their grades, why they have a zero, and class assignments/projects. Now that does not mean that I don’t love to hear from parents. If you have a concern, please absolutely feel free to contact me.

Remind: Students are encouraged to sign up for Remind. This is an easy way to stay up to date on class announcements and reminders for quizzes/tests. Students/parents can sign up to receive an email and/or text message with class information.

Absences and Make-Up Work: When you are absent, you are still responsible for missed notes as well as assignments. Notes may be copied from a classmate. Make-up work is your responsibility. You will be given 1 day per class day missed to complete the make-up work. Students need to reference the “What did I miss folder” when absent.

Class Rules: Know and follow the guidelines in the MNMS handbook at all times.

Be Responsible

  • Be in your seat when the bell rings. Have your assignments completed before you arrive to school

Be Respectful

  • Respect the school, yourself, and others at all times!
  • Do not write on yourself, others, or school property.
  • Let me teach so everyone, including you, can learn.

Be respected

  • You have the right to feel like a valued member of this class.
  • You should feel safe when you are here.Being respectful goes a long way to be respected.

Be Responsive

  • Be active in the classroom by taking part in class discussions.
  • Answer questions that are asked of you with appropriate responses.
  • If you see or hear negative things happening, do the right thing.

American History Syllabus Acknowledgement Sheet: Mr. Mitchell’s Class

I am very excited for the new school year,and I hope you are as well. This class is meant for students to discover their country and how it was founded. Below, please have you and your student sign showing that the syllabus has been read and acknowledged. Let’s have a great year!

Parent Signature: ______Date: ______

Student Signature:______Date: ______