Greenfield High School
2013-2014
World History A
Mr. Gildersleeve
831-674-2751, extension 1601
Course Objectives; Based on the Common Core Standards:
The purpose of the World History course is to provide the student with an overview of major world events and personalities that have helped shape modern world history. The course will provide a global and multicultural perspective of world events. World History is a graduation requirement and is aligned with the California State Standards . The following web address (http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/documents/histsocscistnd.pdf) contains the history and social science content standards for California public schools. For standards addressed in this course click on grade ten.
Course Description:.
WORLD HISTORY/GEOGRAPHY A This is a year long course for sophomores consisting of two semesters required for graduation.
Prerequisite: Counselor recommendation.
Meets SMCJUHSD graduation and CSU/UC entrance requirement (“F”).
This survey course is for college-prep students and is California Content standards aligned. It follows world history/geography from the origins and development of early civilizations through the present time. It traces the rise of Civilization, the rise of modern democratic ideas, and the historical roots of current world issues, especially as they pertain to international relations. World History and geography concepts will be examined to better understand the relationship between past and present cultural, political, and geographical developments.
Classroom Code of Conduct: Behavioral expectations
The student will adhere to all school rules and district policies as summarized in the Parent/Student handbook. Students are expected to be in class on time and prepared for learning. Students are expected to bring their materials to class including a pen or pencil as well as paper. Students are to bring all work to class as pertains to the current topic of study.
Grading Scale:
Administrative Regulation (AR) 5121 (a)
Grades for each grading period as follows:
A (90-100%) Outstanding Achievement 4.0 grade points
B (80-89%) Above Average Achievement 3.0 grade points
C (70-79%) Average Achievement 2.0 grade points
D (60-69%) Below Average Achievement 1.0 grade points
F (0-59%) Little or no Achievement 0 grade points
I Incomplete 0 grade points
An Incomplete shall be given only when a student’s work is not finished because of illness or other excused absence. If not made up within six weeks, the Incomplete shall become an F.
Special Education: Any modification in the above grading will be documented in the student’s IEP with parental consent.
Board Policy 5121 (b)
Effect of Absences on Grades:
If a student misses class without an excuse and does not subsequently turn in homework, take a test, or fulfill another class requirement which he/she missed, the teacher may lower the student’s grade for nonperformance, based on the value of the missed assignment.
The Board believes that 5 unexcused absences per grading period constitute excessive unexcused absences. Students with excessive unexcused absences may receive a failing grade and not receive credit for the class (es).
Students and parents/guardians shall be informed by the teachers if class credit is withheld due to excessive unexcused absences. Each time an unexcused absence occurs the student and parent/guardian shall again be notified of the district’s policy regarding excessive unexcused absences. When a student has 4 unexcused absences a phone call and/or meeting will be arranged by the teacher with the parent/guardian.
Assessments/Assignments: Currently planned, but subject to change based on the needs of the students.
An exam is given at the end of each chapter within the 5 units of this course. Homework is due on the day of each exam. These exams make up 25% of each students grade. Study guides are provided to the students at least one day before the test. Homework is 25% of the course grade, homework is expected to be turned in on the day of the exam unless other arrangements have been made with the teacher. Students may turn in homework one day late. Late homework will be given as much as 75% credit. Participation is 25% of the course grade. All students will have ample opportunities to participate. Quizzes and projects make up 25% of the grade. Quizzes are based on section readings out of the text book.
Special Circumstances:
Students may turn work in one day late for as much as 75% credit. If students have an excused absence when the homework is due, one day for each day of excused absence will be given to turn in the assignment for full credit. Cheating will not be tolerated and will result in a 0% for the assignment. Cases of academic dishonesty will be reported to administration.
Class Expectations – Level of Rigor:
-Students are expected to read the chapter sections that are covered in lecture before each exam.
-Students are expected to write in a manner which is understood by the reader.
-Students are expected to ask questions and participate in class.
-Students are expected to collaborate with classmates in preparation for exams and completion of
projects
-Students are expected to be organized and submit high quality work.
-Students are expected to think critically.
Materials Resources Provided:
The required text for this class is Modern World History published by McDougal Little.