COURSE EXPECTATIONS

Course Description

Grading Policies

Organization

Questions

Course Description

The New York State Education Department Social Studies Standards set the framework for the course content.  The eighth grade curriculum in Social Studies begins with the Civil War and continues through the present in American History and culture.  The purpose of the course is to help develop the understanding and skills necessary to live as a productive citizen of this country and to gain an understanding of America’s connection to the world as a whole.  In order to assess student achievement of these skills, New York State administers a standardized test for all eighth grade students.  This test will cover material from the 7^th and 8^th grade curriculums and will occur in June.  We will use the America: History of Our Nation  textbook to guide us, but not to dictate our content. 

To ensure that students are always prepared to study and complete assignments, they should leave a textbook at home, covered, and in a safe place.  Many topics will be studied, so all students can find something both challenging and enjoying.  Student should keep this paper in their notebook throughout the school year.

Grading Policies

Grading –

Course Averages may not be calculated using simple averaging, since each assignment may be weighted differently.

20% Tests/ Major Projects                                           20% Quizzes

35% Homework/Minor Projects                                  

25% Classwork/Participation

There will be homework 3-5 times a week and occasional small projects.  Homework is essential to develop background or achieve reinforcement of content ideas.  Completion of homework is an easy way to succeed in this class.  Assignments will be explained in class, posted on the chalkboard, and accessible on the homework hotline.  Timely completion of homework is essential as late work interferes and distracts from learning.  Late Work includes any work that is handed in after 3:00 pm on the due date.  If any work is handed in after this due date, students will receive half credit. 

Organization

Students will need to bring the following materials to Social Studies on a daily basis:

·        Assignment pad (provided by the school)

·        3- Ring binder

·        2 pens, a #2 pencil, a highlighter, and a well stocked notebook

·        (If any of these items are not obtainable, please let me know.)

Student should be organized in a 3-ring binder with a few dividers.  This binder can be shared with other subject areas if students remain organized.  If students prefer working with spiral notebooks, they should obtain loose binder rings to keep photocopies in the notebook.  It is strongly suggested that students file work from finished units at home in a safe place for review at the end of the year.  A shoebox or folder is a good way to keep these things. 

Questions/Extra Help/Make-Ups

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