Pre-AP World Geography Syllabus
2014-2015
Ms. Erin Edick
eedick@houstonisd.org
N120
Resources:
 Textbook: World Geography by McDougal Littell
Supplies
 Three Ring Binder (at least 1½ in) with dividers (5)
 Notebook Paper
 Markers or Colored Pencils


Pen/Pencil (you must have something to write with
EVERYDAY)
Graph Paper (optional)
Course Description
World Geography provides students the opportunity to study the interaction of people and their physical environments
in the major areas of the World. Content introduces the student to the world of geographers, their unique vocabulary,
tools, and methodologies. Students acquire an understanding of the physical setting of the earth, locate and study
different landforms and regions of the world, learn how people and geography impact each other, and are introduced to
urban analysis. Content also offers the student the opportunity to put into practice the geographical concepts and skill
through critical thinking applications about the world. It also builds upon what the student has accumulated through
the social studies program beginning in the elementary grades and in the Texas and United States History courses.
Course Breakdown:
First Semester
 The World in Spatial Terms and Places/Regions
 Physical Systems
 Environment and Society
 Population and Migration
 Social/Cultural Systems
Second Semester
 Political Human Systems
 Conflict and Cooperation
 Economic Systems
 Examining Economic Disparity
 ESPN World Review
 Researching Geographically
Classroom Expectations:
1. RESPECT: I hold this quality at the highest of expectations in my classroom. In order for this classroom to be as
successful as possible, we all must respect one another. I, as your teacher, will show you the same respect I expect
to be shown. Students will be expected to be respectful to everyone and everything in my classroom. This is
includes but is not limited to: me, other students, themselves, school property, school rules, etc…
2. Preparation: This includes being on time to class with your appropriate materials and assigned work. I also expect
students to come to class prepared to participate in the lesson.
3. Honesty and Integrity: I have a NO TOLERANCE policy on cheating or plagiarism. If a student is caught cheating on
any assignment, they will receive a zero on the assignment and their parent will be notified of the situation via
phone call. Remember, your integrity is one of your most prized possessions and it is not worth compromising over
a few extra points.
4. 100% Effort: As your teacher, I give 100% to teaching and preparing you in the classroom to the best of my ability;
therefore, I expect the same from you. Come to class prepared to work and participate. I want an open, interactive
classroom, where we can discuss and investigate things together. Therefore, in order for this to be successful, you
must do your part. This includes completing assigned readings BEFORE class so that you can actively participate in
discussions and activities, as well as actively participating and contributing during group work assignments.
Classroom Rules
1. Be on time and prepared for class. There is a school-wide tardy policy in effect
2. Raise your hand to speak—do not speak without permission!
3. All students must be in their seats when the bell rings AND before the class is dismissed.
4. 100% Participation!! Do your BEST!
5. NO PUT DOWNS! Everyone’s opinion in class matters. ESPECIALLY YOURS!
6. Be RESPECTFUL at all times.
7. All school-wide policies and procedures will be followed including the following:
 School ID must be worn at all times.
 Dress Code will be enforced
Grading Policy
 Major Grades: 60% (Tests, Quizzes, Projects, etc…)
 Daily Grades: 40% (Daily Assignments, Homework, etc…)
Retake Policy
Students may retake any Major Grade if they receive less than a 75. In order to qualify for the retake, students must:
 Attend a tutorial session to review material
 Complete all related or missing assignments
Policies and Procedures: All Westside High School policies and procedures will be followed and enforced in the
classroom.
1.
Arrival: Arrive to class on time with all supplies everyday. Take care of all errands before class begins, this includes
using the restroom. Any student walking in after the bell will be marked tardy and be subject to the WHS tardy
policy. Restroom policy will be discussed in class.
2. Class Time: Students will remain seated at their desks during instruction time unless given permission by the
teacher to do otherwise. This procedure applies to all of the following incidents. Just use some common sense!
 Throwing trash away
 Obtaining supplies for projects
 Sharpening your pencil
3. Absences: If you are absent, it is your responsibility to make up all missed work.
 Make-Up Folder: It is YOUR responsibility to make up any missing assignment after an absence. You must get
your assignments on the day you return and complete any missed assignment within three school days. You are
also responsible for any notes you missed, you need to ask a classmate for the notes.
 Missed Tests: All missed tests must be made up within one week of your return to school. Make arrangements
with me to take a make up tests before or after school or during lunch. Failure to make up a test will result in a
zero.
4. Tutoring: My official tutoring times are ______________________________________________________________,
but tutoring is ALWAYS available. If you are ever confused or just need a little extra help, please come and see me
so we can schedule a time that is convenient to meet. Please do not wait until the day of the test or the end of the
six weeks to let me know you need help!
5. Electronics: NO Cell Phones, IPODS, CD Players, Radios, etc… in class. They will be taken, and Westside policy will
be followed.
I am really looking forward to a fun and successful year in this class. I am genuinely excited to be teaching one of my
FAVORITE subjects and I feel strongly that a strong Social Studies education is essential for everyone! This will be a group
effort, meaning we will all work together to learn and achieve in this classroom. I have very high expectations for each
and every one of you, which should be taken as a compliment! With that said, please remember that your success is my
primary goal this semester, so if you need anything or have any questions ALWAYS ask. I look forward to a great year!
I have read and discussed syllabus with my parents/guardians, and understand all policies, procedures, and
the grading system of Ms. Edick’s classroom.
Date _____________________
Student Name (printed) _____________________________________________
Student Signature _________________________________________________
******************************************************************************************
I have read and discussed syllabus with my student, and understand all policies, procedures, and the grading
system of Ms. Edick’s classroom. I also agree to receive periodic updates via email &/or phone regarding the
status of my child in class.
Date _____________________
Parent Name (printed) ______________________________________________
Parent Signature __________________________________________________
Parent Email _____________________________________________________
Parent phone _____________________________________________________
Preferred communication: ( ) phone
( ) email
( ) other ______________
This form needs to be returned to Ms. Edick’s class no later than Tuesday, September 2, 2014.
Remember: This form is worth a daily grade for the first six weeks!