Modern America

Modern America

Mr. Hobdell

2016-2017 Syllabus

Phone: 610.627.6374 E-mail:

Course: With how fast change, spurred by technology, takes place in this country, it is important for students, as well as leaders, to be aware of what took place in the past so we as a nation do not make the same mistakes. This course is a survey of the last century. While not every era will be covered down to the last detail, every era will be depicted in such a way as to give the student a clear picture of where our nation has been. The result will be the ability of students to thoughtfully and intelligently analyze where and why we are heading in the direction we are.

Content: This year-long course begins with the study of September 11, 2001 and the role in which the United States finds itself today. The course then moves backwards beginning with the study of American History from the Gilded Age to current day. Along the way, influential leaders will be discussed. A look at the major wars of the century will be discussed. However, more than just people and wars will be examined. Students will study social movements, political and economic movements, all the while analyzing why Americans acted as they did.

Evaluation: The ways in which you will be evaluated come in four categories: homework, class participation, quizzes, and tests. Each is described below.

Homework: The average of all homework scores counts towards 20% of your marking period grade. Even when no written homework is assigned, you are responsible for reviewing any previous work (notes, handouts, etc.). Homework may conist of assignments that will be checked for points, or a homework assessment that is administered at the beginning of class. Make-up/late homework may be handed in for one point. No homework will be accepted after the close of the quarter. If you are absent, you must show me your homework at the beginning of the next class you attend in order for your homework to be considered on-time. For example, if you are absent Monday when an assignment is due, you must present the completed assignment Tuesday at the beginning of class. If you have a good reason as to why you cannot get to the homework that night (family emergency, worked late, etc.), it is your responsibility to either call me or email me in advance. Failure to do so will mean regular deductions. This is intended to apply only once in a while; do not abuse the privilege. You should be checking the website for homework even when you are absent. Staying on top of homework is essential for success in this course. Due to the sheer volume of information we are going to cover your success depends on reviewing notes, guides, and completing homework.

Class Participation: Class participation counts towards 20% of your marking period grade. Proper participation includes preparedness for class and completing/participating in class assignments. Random notebook checks, in-class assignments, and participation in class discussion and group work may all contribute to one’s class participation grade.

Quizzes: Every week, you will either have a quiz or test. Quizzes are basically the halfway point in the material between tests and are designed to keep you on top of the material. Almost every quiz will be ten questions. Some quiz grades will include in-class review assignments.Your quizzes will be averaged together and20% of that average will be put towards your marking period grade. If you miss a quiz, you have one week from the date the quiz is given to make it up. If you do not make it up in a week’s time, the grade becomes a zero.

Tests: Every week, you will either have a quiz or test. Tests will be designed to test a variety of skills and will progressively get more challenging as you prepare for college and the working world. Typically, but not always, there will be a review session the day before the test only (not quizzes). Tests constitute 40% of your marking period grade. The make up policy for quizzes applies to tests.

Projects, Books, etc. Each marking period you will have at least one particular extra assignment. This could be an outside reading, a research paper, a speech, a debate, a creative assignment, or the like. They will be announced during the marking period and will carry a certain weight in the test or quiz category.

Learning Enhancement/Office Hours:I am available any time you feel you need it. However, it is your responsibility to come see me. I recommend makng an appointment and cite specific issues you want to work on when we meet.

Questions: If you do not understand something or are unsure of something ask. Remember, you are responsible for your own education.

Academic Integrity: I expect honest, independent work from all students at all times. Any academic dishonesty will result in a zero for the assignment in questions and an automatic zero in class participation for the marking period. Refer to the building’s academic honesty policy if you have questions.

Electronics in class:

Electronics (cellphones/Ipads/etc.) are not to be used or visible in class unless Mr. Hobdell is allowing for their use in/on/or during an activity. Electronics should be SILENT AND AWAY from the moment of entering the room to the the time of leaving the room. Violation of this rule will be a detention – NO WARNING PROVIDED.