The Newman School
Boston
Mr. Dudley, 2011-2012 American History
I Course Description This course is a survey of American History from the earliest 1750 through the present day. Special attention will be given to pivotal moments in the American experience such as the Revolutionary Era , Civil War & Reconstruction and the first half of the Twentieth century.
Goals and Objective:
By the end of the United States History students should be able to
1) Demonstrate a chronological understanding of the history of the United States
2) Be able to identify the impact of major intellectual movements of the past and relate how they endure to this day.
3) Be able to chart the growth in scope of American democracy from 1776 to the 1876
4) Compose a well-written and properly cited research paper.
5) Prepare students for the rigors of International Baccalaureate level history.
II Materials
Textbook: Johnson MacPherson Murrin et al , Liberty Equality & Power
Nota Bene: You must bring the textbook to class every day. Failure to do so will negatively impact your class participation grade.
Additional Readings: Throughout the course of the semester, handouts will be distributed.
Notebook. You are expected to have a separate notebook for this class. Your notebook will be collected, unannounced, periodically during the semester. Your notebook should be a three ring binder with 4 separate sections (use dividers). The four sections should be labeled Class Notes, Homework Notes, Returned tests and Quizzes and Handouts. It is your responsibility to keep a neat and organized notebook and have a section for in-class handouts.
Videos: During the course of the semester, we will watch several videos. It is important to note that these films, whether documentary or fictional accounts of historical events, are the equivalent of class lectures and discussions. They will be included on tests and quizzes. Taking extensive notes on videos is heartily recommended
III Your Grade
Tests: Test account for 50 % of your grade.
Projects: Projects will be graded as test grades. For example a research paper may be worth 3 tests. .
Notebook 20 % of your grade is comprised of keeping a neat and orderly notebook
Homework. Homework is 20 % of your grade
Class Participation . Class participation accounts for 10% of your grade.
Test & Quizzes: Tests will be given every Friday. Tests and quizzes will be based on reading, in-class discussions and videos.
Homework:. Homework is a major portion of your grade and must be turned in on time. Late assignments will be given a 50 % reduction on the first day and will not be accepted afterwards.
Class participation. Class participation is 10 % of your grade.
IV Academic Honesty Policy. All students are obligated to adhere to the Newman School’s Academic Honesty Policy, which can be found in the Student Handbook.
Cheating is morally offensive and dishonorable and will not be tolerated in my classroom. Students caught cheating will a) receive a zero on the assignment b) be referred to the Principal’s office and c) have their parents/guardians contacted via phone call.