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CIVICS – A STUDY IN DEMOCRACY
250 1 Semester
This course provides a program of instruction in United States local, state and national government and in the duties, responsibilities and rights of United States citizens. Emphasis is placed on how an informed citizenry governs itself. Major issues facing the United States will be critically examined. As a part of the curriculum, students will be expected to become involved in the democratic process. This course is required for graduation.
Assessments:
1. Minor assessments (Reflective journal entries, written homework assignments, quizzes)……..10-50pts
2. Major assessments (Tests, projects, research papers)….. 100+ pts.
Class time will be spent in a variety of ways: lecture (though necessary, I will try to limit, and if I forget, REMIND ME), discussion of assigned readings, analysis of primary sources, small group activities, and individual research exercises. Grades will be based primarily on completion of research projects, multiple choice tests, and preparation of reading assignments as evidenced through quizzes or brief written summaries. Homework will be assigned daily.
Late Work:
· All assignments are due at the beginning of the class period assigned unless otherwise noted.
· Minor assignments not handed in, or missed due to an unexcused tardy or absence must be completed by 2:30 of the same day to receive passing credit (D-).
- Major assignments not complete at the time due will receive a grade deduction per CALENDAR day unless an accommodation is granted at least a full day in advance. All major assignments may be submitted electronically unless otherwise noted (electronic submission is typically required).
Extensions/Missed work:
· Students needing accommodations/extensions other than illness must meet with me well in advance of the due date. Last minute extensions will only be granted under very extenuating circumstances.
· Students missing work for excused absences are responsible for planning ahead if possible, or seeing me after classes to get missed assignments. Do not expect to get this done in the few minutes before or after class.
· Assignments posted while a student is absent are due within 5 days of returning to school.
· Extended assignments (projects, papers, etc.) due on the day of an absence are due upon return unless an extension is granted prior to returning. Major assignments (Tests/papers) will be marked down 10% per day until the work is failing.
· No exceptions will be granted on the due date of an assignment. See the student handbook regarding work missed due to extended absences.
***STUDENTS ARRIVING LATE TO SCHOOL AND MISSING CLASS ON A TEST DAY ARE EXPECTED TO MAKE UP THE TEST ON THE SAME DAY OR LOSE 10% OF THEIR GRADE. STUDENTS FAILING TO SEE ME AFTER A LATE ARRIVAL AND MISSED TEST MAY RECEIVE A ZERO IF THEY DO NOT SEE ME BY THE END OF THE ACADEMIC DAY.
All class members are expected to show respect for those in our community. I want this class to be an open forum where every member can contribute ideas, challenge assertions and defend positions. In doing so, we must also remember to respect the views and opinions of our peers. Any behavior that detracts from the learning atmosphere will not be tolerated, and will have a direct impact on participation grades and be subject to further disciplinary action in accordance with the guidelines established in the student handbook. Such behavior includes being tardy or unprepared for class. I will not belabor the guidelines as established in the handbook, and am confident that we will be successful in creating a learning environment where every student will be a valuable contributor to the class community.
All students must complete and return the Responsible Use computer forms by the end of the first week of classes. Failure to do so may result in loss of credit on class exercises!!!