History of Western Civilization Syllabus
2011- 2012
Pd 9
Jennifer Genis
Room C-106
847-825-4484 Ext. 1398 (Voicemail)
Email: jgenis@maine207.org
Open periods: 2nd and 7th
Course Objectives:
1. To understand the many different regions of the world and the people who live in
them.
2. To learn geography, climate, and resources of the lands.
3. To learn about the people on the Earth and ways in which they live and interact with
their environment.
4. To develop reading, writing, and vocabulary skills.
This textbook series teaches students through incremental development and continual review,
which improves student learning. Topics are taught in small steps spread over time. Through
continual review, previously presented concepts are practiced frequently and extensively over
the year.
Text:
World Geography and Cultures, Globe Fearon
World Geography and Cultures Workbook, Globe Fearon
Supplemental materials provided by the teacher
Needed Materials
• 3-Ring Binder (Divider tabs would be very helpful)
• Pen/pencil
• Paper
• Assignment Notebook
Grading Scale
A
100-90%
B
89-80%
C
79-70%
D
69-60%
F
59% & lower
Quarter Grades are averaged and based on weighted percentages: tests (40%), quizzes (30%),
homework assignments (15%), and participation (15%) over the course of the quarter.
Tests and Quizzes : There will be a test after each chapter and occasionally a larger test at the
end of a unit. There will also be short quizzes given within a chapter. Quiz material may be
taken from your assignments and notes, so it is in your best interest to complete your
assignments on time and pay attention in class.
1
Binder / Portfolio Grade: We will be creating a binder of your work that is completed in class
and is dedicated towards organizing and maintaining your Western Civilization notes and past
work for reference. It will be graded at the end of each chapter. You are to bring your binder
to class EVERYDAY.
Homework: Some type of homework is usually given every night. (It may only be a reading
assignment.) Homework is due at the start of class the next day. Homework may be turned in
for partial credit (50%) up until the chapter test. After that, it will not be accepted and will
count as a zero. It is your responsibility to check in any late work with the teacher.
Participation Grade: You will receive daily participation points that will be entered into the
computer weekly. You may earn 5 points daily provided you meet the following requirements:
a. Being on time = 1 point
b. Having a writing utensil =1 point
c. Having your assignment notebook = 1 point
d. Having your text & binder = 1 point
e. Class participation = 1 point
Food and Drinks: Only water will be allowed in the classroom or you may be excused to use
the drinking fountain upon asking. No juice, flavored waters, sodas, or other drinks will be
allowed in the classroom. Also, there will be no eating in the classroom (this includes candy
and chips). This is a school rule and has caused problems in the past. Leave it in your backpack
or don’t bring it into the room.
Passes: Outside commitments or errands need to be made before or after class. You will not be
excused from class in order to take care of non-class related issues. Likewise, you are expected
to use the washroom before or after class (unless it is an emergency).
Absences and Make Up Work: If you are absent and excused, you are expected to make up the work.
I will try to find time in class to re-teach you the material. Otherwise it is your responsibility to find
time (either during your Seminar, lunch, or before/after school) to meet with me. If you are absent and
not excused, you will not be allowed to make up work missed and any test or quiz scores will be counted
as zeros. It is up to you to ask the teacher what work is needed to be made up from your absence.
YOU CAN ALWAYS EMAIL ME FROM HOME!
Cheating: Students are expected to complete all tests and assignments honestly and will not collaborate
in dishonest actions. Students will not give or accept answers or assignments unless directed to by the
teacher. Students caught cheating or plagiarizing will be subject to discipline as stated in the Student
Handbook. You only hurt yourself and the others you involve. Don’t do it!
Assistance: I am available before school (usually by 7:15), 2nd and 7th periods, and immediately after
school. Please try to let me know ahead of time so I can make sure I am there for you. It is important to
get help right away to avoid further confusion. Do not wait to get help until the day of a test or quiz.
2
Expectations: You are expected to follow the 6 “P”’s to success in this class. This ensures you and your
fellow classmates’ right to an environment conducive to learning and your success in this class. The 6
“P”s are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Prompt ………be on time
Polite …………use good manners and body language at all times
Prepared …….have all your materials and assignments needed each day
Positive…… ....use only positive language and comments about yourself and others
Participate …..on in class assignments and group work
Produce ……...deliver high quality work on all you do
3