Truesdell

World History
2011-2012 Syllabus

Description:
World History is a course that is designed to help students explore a vast number of civilizations and cultures that have existed throughout the earths past. Students will learn how to think like historians by performing artifact analysis, reading primary documents, and constantly comparing and contrasting past societies. Its going to be a mad dash to cover so much ground, so get ready to do some workand have some fun along the way!

Contact Information:
Name: John Truesdell Education: B.A. Education (Social Studies & Earth/Space Science), University of Michigan. Email: jtruesdell@sjschools.org Phone: 269-926-3344 (Please call between 7:00 - 7:50 am or 3:10 - 430pm) Twitter: @MrTruesdellSJHS Room: #217 (Burgundy Hallway)

Twitter Announcements:
In an effort to remind students and parents about class information, news, and updates, I will post important announcements on my twitter feed (@MrTruesdellSJHS) after 3:05pm on a regular basis. These posts will reflect announcements from class to help students keep track of their responsibilities. World History announcements will be tagged #WHistSJHS.

Course Objectives:
Students will:
Gain a larger understanding of the worlds collective history Construct new critical thinking skills and tools Strengthen their abilities to objectively compare and contrast civilizations across time and cultures Practice interpreting and utilizing primary documents Understand how to build an intelligent, college level argument using historical evidence

Truesdell Classroom Policies:

1. RESPECT: Above all else, everyone in classroom #217 will respect themselves, each other, and the learning environment. This class will explore sensitive issues that require students to demonstrate mature behavior. I understand that respect is a two way street, this expectation applies not only to students but to the teacher also. Be Prepared: Entering the classroom ready to learn means bringing the proper supplies each day. On a daily basis, students should bring their journal, a notebook/paper, and a writing utensil. Students will receive 24 hours notification if any additional supplies such as a textbook are required. Extra materials are available in the Student Activity Center but are very limited. Be Responsible: I recognize that most of you will be going to college or entering the real world in a very short time. As a result, I will treat you like young adults. In return, I expect you to demonstrate a high level of self accountability by keeping organized and staying on top of your work. Ask Questions: Expectations and instructions will always be laid out as clearly as possible. However, even the greatest thinkers will sometimes become confused (most likely because of their teachers!). Never be afraid to approach me to ask questions or clarify an explanation. Have a Good Attitude & Have Some Fun: This class is heavily driven by student discussion and participation. That means Im relying on you guys to push this class to become a fun exploration of the criminal justice system.

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Late Work: Work should be turned in on time. Unexcused late work will be accepted within 24 hours of the original due date for credit. Absences: Absences are the best way to guarantee that you will not learn anything. Much of what we will do in this class cannot easily be made up. I will adhere to the student handbooks policies regarding attendance. Classroom discussions, guest speakers, and simulations are very difficult to find in a textbook, so make it a top priority to show up for class. Additional information to know: Unexcused absences on test or quiz days will result in a 25% reduction of your test score. All tests and quizzes must be made up within three days of your return (excused or unexcused). Additional delays will result in a reduction of your test/quiz score. (5% per day). Unexcused absences on a test or quiz day will result in an immediate 0 plugged into Powerbook until you come speak to me about making it up. After a student has received more than 10 unexcused absences, they must complete a World History Portfolio in order to be allowed to take the semester exam. This includes: o Speaking to Mr. Truesdell about completing & turning in all missing work at a C level or higher. o Completing all remaining semester work on time and at a minimum of a C+ average. o Performing an Outside World Culture Project as determined by Mr. Truesdell

Grading: 100 93% = A 92 90% = A89 87% = B+ 86 83% = B 82 80% = B79 77% = C+ 76 73% = C 72 70% = C69 67% = D+ 66 63% = D 62 60% = D59 00% = F Note: Extra credit will be earned, not given. Opportunities for extra credit will be available at certain points throughout the semester, and will typically require students to become engaged with the community. Students will be notified of these opportunities as they arise.