US History Course II
Teacher
Mrs. Erin Beaver
Classroom C-17
Phone
(480) 541-5957
Website
E-mail
ebeaver@kyrene.org
www.kyrene.org/ebeaver
Couse Description:
This U.S. History Course II covers the time period of 1700s-Present and encompasses the study of the impact of the
Revolutionary War on the United States, World War II, the Cold War, the Korean War and the role of the United States in the
Vietnam Conflict. Civil Rights issues and events in the Post War period are studied including Contemporary U.S. History, and
events in the Middle East during the 20th and 21st centuries. Geography, Civics/Government and Economics standards are
integrated within the study of U.S. History Course 2.
Course Expectations:
Students in US History Course II are expected to develop writing skills, keep up with reading assignments, and begin the
process of historical analysis critical to understanding and interpreting the past. Students are expected to come to class
prepared and the complete assignments on time.
Textbook and Materials:
American History
Textbooks will not be given to students to take home.
Online reviews can be found at www.classzone.com. You can review each chapter
for free without logging into the website. Just find our textbook on the main page.
Accompanying chapters will be uploaded to my website as we use them.
Statement for Academic Dishonesty:
Academic honesty is expected in this class. Cheating will not be tolerated. Consequences may include: reduction in grade
on an assignment, repeat assignment, no grade on the assignment or others as deemed appropriate. Academic
dishonesty will be reported to a school counselor and a parent will be notified. The student will also be sent to ISI for the
remainder of the class period for a Time Out.
End of the Year Eligibility:
As eighth graders, there are numerous opportunities to participate in fun, non-academic days toward the end of our year
together. As per school policy, if a student is failing a class or has been placed on social probation due to behavior, they
may lose the privilege of participating. As stated later in the syllabus, there are no extra credit opportunities in US History
Course II. It is your responsibility to maintain a passing grade in my class as well as all other classes.
Grading Plan:
The grade levels in US History Course II are based on the typical standard stated below:
90 - 100% = A
80 - 89% = B
70 - 79% = C
60 - 69% = D
0 - 59% = F
There will be no plus or minuses when it comes to grades.
The Kyrene School District considers a D a passing grade and an F a failing grade. As Rattlers, we have high expectations for
each and every one of our students, therefore my goal is to have every student finish eighth grade with at least a C in US
History Course II. Myself and my fellow 8B teachers are committed to providing quality education catered to each of our
students, therefore if there is a way I can make my classroom more suited to your learning style, please do not hesitate to
email me or meet with me before or after school. I want every student to experience success in my classroom and in their
eighth grade year.
Grades will be updated regularly in StudentVue and ParentVue, as well as posted in the classroom. Students should be
aware of their position in my class at all times.
100% Club: Vocabulary is an essential part of the history curriculum. You will find that there will be many vocabulary tests
and quizzes given throughout the year. Vocabulary tests and quizzes will typically consist of matching the word to the
definition, but may include fill-in-the-blank or multiple choice questions. In my class, if a student receives 100% on a
vocabulary test, they will get a break the next time around; they will automatically earn 100% on the next vocabulary test.
Course Policies:
Student Work: Students will be expected to complete assignments outside of class time on a regular basis. All students are
expected to read class material, think critically and write effectively. Students are expected to use complete sentences,
proper grammar and correct spelling in every written performance.
Group Activities: You will be working in groups on a regular basis. Your group will be given cooperative learning activities to
complete. You will be expected to be an active member of your group. You will always be graded as an individual;
however your group may earn points together as well.
Extra Credit: There will not be any extra credit opportunities in US History Course II.
Absences: If a student is absent, it is HIS/HER responsibility to get all late work returned to the teacher in a timely manner. All
assignments, readings, and materials can be found on my website.
Class Rules:





The student is expected to treat the teacher and other students with respect at all times. Offensive language and
hatefulness is not acceptable in this class. I like to use as a guideline “Do the right thing”. You know what is right and
wrong and you will be expected to act accordingly.
Students are expected to be in their seats and prepared for class when the bell rings. Being prepared for class
means having all materials, books, pens, etc. out and ready.
Pay attention. Talking while the teacher is instructing or while other students are presenting will not be permitted.
Listen the first time directions are given.
Students will stay in their seats at all times unless otherwise directed by the teacher.
The phrase, “I don’t know” is never an acceptable answer.
Page 2
If students cannot follow these rules, they will be refocused according to the Akimel A-al refocus policy. As an eighth
grader, students will have three chances to refocus their behavior in my classroom for the entire school year. If they cause
disruptions or break the rules, they will be sent to ISI for each infraction after the third refocus.
Please return this page to Mrs. Beaver by this date: __________________________________________________________________
Keep the first two pages for your records.
I have read and understand the expectations and rules for Mrs. Beaver’s US History Course II class.
Parent/Guardian Signature:__________________________________________________________ Date:__________________________
Parent/Guardian Email Address:______________________________________________________________________________________
Student Signature: ___________________________________________________________________ Date:__________________________
Page 3