International Relations
CLASS SYLLABUS
Mr. Hobdell
Telephone: 610-627-6374
E-mail:
Room Number: A-113
OBJECTIVE:
This course provides an introduction to some of the major theoretical perspectives for studying how states and peoples behave and interact. Students will learn new ways of thinking about international relations, increase their ability to evaluate these competing ideas, and apply different perspectives to concrete policy issues.
CONTENT:
Course webpage. Projects, videos, and current events will also be prominently featured in this course.
COURSE OUTLINE: Since our curriculum is based on themes rather than chronology, these units can be covered in any order.
I.Introduction to International Relations and Foreign Policy
II.Diplomacy, International Law, and The United Nations
- International Trade
IV.The Nuclear Age
- The Threat of Terrorism
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.
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: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: 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.