Honores Estudios Latinoamericanos
Señor Whitford
2014-15
Course Syllabus
Office: Blair Arts Center Room 227
Phone: (301) 983-5701 Ext. 832
Email: Bryan_Whitford@bullis.org
Free Periods: See Office Hours
Texts and Materials
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Charged computer and power chord
“Latin American Politics and Development” by Howard Wiarda and Harvey F. Kline
Assorted Teacher-generated handouts and resources
Spanish/English, English/Spanish dictionary (hard copy or electronic)
Writing utensils
Organizational binder
Course Evaluation
 Projects and Essays
 Quizzes and Writing Assignments
 Weekly class participation
 Pop quizzes
 Homework
 Final Exam and Final Project
30%
20%
20%
5%
5%
20%
Course Content and Objectives
¡Bienvenidos a Honores Estudios Latinoamericanos! You are now ready to embark on a
course solely devoted to discovering Latin America. This course does not use vocabulary lists or
textbook grammar lessons. Instead, we are going to take a detailed journey through this region as
we strive to better understand it. During this journey you can expect to do the following:
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Define the physical boundaries of Latin America and identify the variety of cultures
represented.
Explore the role of immigration in the development of modern Latin America.
Analyze the effects and consequences of the Cold War in Latin America.
Observe the changing face of economics of Latin America.
In this class we will some English language base texts to help guide you through some of
the more challenging information. I will supplement some Spanish language texts. Class,
however, we be conducted in Spanish, and you are expected to participate in the target language
at all times.
During the course of this year you will have a variety of tasks and assignments designed
to develop your language skills. All of our work revolves around the Bullis Core Academic
Values:
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4.
5.
Critical Thinking
Collaboration
Communication
Resourcefulness
Creativity
I look forward to a great year with anyone.
Policies and Procedures
I. Student Expectations and Computer Policy
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Student Expectations
This is a Spanish class and thus
Spanish is the primary classroom
language. Please get into the habit of
speaking Spanish as often as you can
because I will speak Spanish more and
more frequently as the year progresses.
All students are to arrive on time with
all their own materials.
There will be no eating in class. There
will also be absolutely no gum
chewing in class. Look beneath the
tables if you do not understand this.
Bottled water is permitted. Please do
not bring other beverages. We all need
to ensure we keep the room clean.
Do not repeatedly ask to go to the
bathroom. Do your best to do so
before or after class. If you must be
excused during class please ask to do
so.
You must also be in full compliance
with the Bullis uniform policies.
Students who violate the uniform
policy will be warned and given the
opportunity to correct it. If you do not
correct it you will be written up.
Unless I have specifically instructed
you to use your phone or you have
received specific permission, all phone
are to be turned off and away. I do
confiscate phones I see or hear.
I expect all students to abide by the 
Bullis honor code. I will not give out 
warnings for students who disrespect 
me or a fellow classmate. Instead, I 
will fill out a comportment form.
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Technology Statement
Expectations:
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Bring computer every day
Bring your class materials (binder,
notebook, pencils, pens, and any
textbooks or workbook) every day
Bring power cord every day
Bring the appropriate connector for the
classroom projectors as needed
Post or email assignments before the
start of class
Classroom etiquette:
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Students will close computers at
teacher request
Teacher will monitor student computer
use
Assignment details:
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All voice files or sound recordings
must be submitted through audio drop
box through Haiku
All voice thread projects should be
shared by a link and made public
All written assignments must be saved
in the teacher specified format
II.
Organization and Preparation
This course will likely represent a significant change from what you were accustomed to
in your Level II Spanish course. Vocabulary will be much broader and will focus more on usage
rather than theme. You will strengthen your Level I and Level II material before being
introduced to more advanced material. You will also spend considerable time working on
reading, listening and speaking skills. For all these reasons it is extremely important you stay
organized. Whether it is taking notes or keeping track of printouts, you should be able to locate
material quickly at any time.
III. Participation
Participation is essential in this course. Due to the discussion nature of this class, you all
have the opportunity to help shape the direction. In order to do so, everyone needs to play a role
in our discussions. Also, please note that the participation category is equal to the quiz category.
IV. Homework
Homework assignments allow the students to actively practice your language skills and
computer skills on a daily basis. Completed assignments demonstrate diligent participation. They
are the students’ responsibility. Completing homework on time will allow students to effectively
participate during class. Students will receive a zero on missed homework assignments unless the
absence is excused. For extended excused absences, please make arrangements with the teacher.
Under extenuating circumstances in a particular course, percentage points may be removed at the
discretion of your teacher. Your daily homework grade is based on the following criteria:
 3 points – I completed 100% of the assignment with my best effort.
 2 points – I completed roughly two thirds of the assignment.
 1 point – I completed roughly one third of the assignment with minimal effort.
 0 point – I did not complete the assignment.
V. Assessments
There are three main types of assessments in this course:
1. Project presentations (both group and individual)
2. Debates
3. Culture quizzes
You will notice there are no traditional tests. Instead, projects and debates offer you
alternative ways to demonstrate command of material. Some projects are individual while others
are more designed for a group.
VI. Attendance and Tardiness
Please refer to the Bullis Handbook for complete policies pertaining to attendance and
late arrivals. You are late if you arrive to class, and I have already begun. If you do not wish to
be marked unexcused then please bring a note from your previous teacher or adult.
VII. Office Hours and Extra Instruction
During this course you may encounter a moment where you have some additional
questions or you are looking for some extra practice. While you certainly may always ask
questions during class, I am always willing and available to meet with you during another time.
Please consult below to see which times during the year I am available:
Fall Trimester
Free Blocks:
Winter Trimester
Free Blocks:
A, F (Study Hall)
A, F
Spring Trimester
Note: It is always best to check first with me before trying to find me in case I have a meeting or
another appointment.