8th Grade- Social Studies Syllabus
2015-2016 School Year
Mrs. Rachael McSpaden
Goals:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Text:
Develop a better understanding of United States history.
Develop skills that lead to independent thinking and learning.
Develop critical thinking and reasoning ability.
Develop reading and writing skills.
The American Journey, Modern Times, Glencoe
Chapters 7-17/ Progressive Era through Present Day
Also: Classroom readings and other sources
Online textbook:
Address: www.glencoe.com/ose
Student login Access Code: D0843B1AB5
Other textbook resources: Website for the textbook is www.glencoe.com. Use code
“TAJMT7189c1”. Change the last number to correspond to chapter number. For example,
Chapter 12 would be “TAJMT7189c12”
Supplies:
Students are to bring to every class: one spiral notebook, writing utensils, loose leaf paper, book,
and two-pocket folder. These items may be requested as needed: index cards, markers/colored
pencils, ruler, graph paper
Class Rules:
 Be on time for class (responsible). Third tardy results in a referral.
 Be prepared for class (responsible).
 Raise hand and wait to be called on (responsible/respectful).
 Follow all handbook and school rules (respectful/safe).
 Respect yourself, others and your environment (respectful).
Consequences of infraction.
 Could result in warnings/reminders, phone calls to parent, and office referrals
 Severe offenses will be sent to the office immediately.
Rewards:
Students can earn free time, homework passes, and positive feedback.
Academic Policies:
Student grades will be based on:
Tests and Major Assessments
45%
Quizzes and Minor Assessments
40%
Classwork and Homework
15%
 Study guides will be given before tests. All tests and quizzes are announced 6-7 days before.
 Cooperative groups will meet during class time.
 Research and projects will come with direction sheet.
 Internet access will be necessary for many activities at home.
Grading Scale:
A=90%--100%
B=80%--89%
C=70%--79%
D=60%--69%
F=59% & below
Homework:
 Homework is due on the date given. Late work is accepted next day for 70% of full credit.
 More than one day late, credit will not be given for assignment. (For students not absent).
 If you are absent the day homework is due, then you are to turn it in for full credit on the day
you return to school.
 Cheating will result in a zero for a grade. Plagiarism is cheating! Remember, cheating only
hurts you.
 Please see handbook for homework policy.
Character is doing what’s right when nobody’s looking. J.C. Watts, Jr.
My Responsibilities as your Teacher
To treat you with respect and care as an individual
To provide you an orderly classroom environment
To provide the appropriate motivation
To teach you the required content
Keep open lines of communication
Offer help as needed to each student
Your Responsibility as my Student
To treat me and others with respect and care as an individual
To be prepared in class and ready to work
To be cooperative
To study and be responsible
To participate in class
I always have time for you.
I am available before and after school. Please let me know if you need help or find an assignment
confusing.
Website: www.summithill.org/summit_hill_jr_high/summit_hill_jr_high.asp
OR www.summithill.org, click on “Summit Hill Jr. High”, then “Teacher Pages”
Please visit the website for weekly updates, homework, and other information.
“mcspaden.blogspot.com” will become very important!! (currently a work in progress)
Parent Communication If for any reason you need to contact me, feel free to leave a message
in the office at 469-4330, or e-mail me at rmcspaden@summithill.org . I will return your call or
e-mail as soon as possible.