Civics
Introduction: This year you will be studying about the formation of the United States,
the process of developing the Constitution, how our government functions, your rights,
and how the law works. You will be introduced to new ideas, concepts, challenged to
think critically, and encouraged to develop your personal beliefs about various topics.
This will be done through a combination of research, use of technology, guided learning,
and a variety of other methods.
Binder: Each of you should have a standard 3 ring binder, and at least two divider tabs.
The first section of your binder will be for notes, the second for homework assignments,
and the third for handouts. You will be given a handout tracker at the beginning of each
quarter to help you track handouts and not lose them. In the back of the room will be a
board listing which assignments should be in your handout tracker. Your binder will
count as part of your overall grade.
Assignments: Each of the assignments is explained in detail further down. Below is a
break down of their percentage towards your overall class grade.
Tests:
Quizzes:
Homework quizzes:
Current Events:
Binder:
40%
20%
20%
15%
5%
100%
Tests: Tests will be administered at the end of each chapter/unit. At the beginning
of each chapter/unit you will receive a review sheet for the chapter/unit that will
highlight key terms, topics, and ideas that will be studied. This sheet will be
referred to throughout the chapter/unit and doubles as the test review sheet. They
are only one tool though in reviewing for tests. You should use your textbook,
notes, quizzes, and handouts to help you study as well. Tests will be given back to
you to place in your handout section of your binder.
Quizzes: There will normally be at least 1 quiz given in between tests. Quizzes
will be announced, but will not have a review sheet for them. Quizzes will be
given back to you and should be placed in the handout section of your binder;
they will help you study for tests.
Homework quizzes (5 in 5): You can expect to be quizzed on notes taken in class,
and reading assignments from homework several times a week. If you are absent,
you are to check the basket and find the quiz with your name on it.
Current Events: You will have to complete at least one current event project each
marking period (there may be more). These projects may be posters, reports,
student made videos, or other presentations. The directions and rubrics will be
reviewed in class, and when possible, time will be provided in school to work on
the projects.
Final Thoughts: You should feel comfortable in this class, and try to enjoy yourself. If
you ever have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to ask me; whether in front of the
class or after class. I do expect you to work hard, but know that everyone needs a helping
hand from time to time.