COURSE SYLLABUS

Mr. Hughes - School Year 2014 2015

COURSE: UNITED STATES HISTORY 1

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course builds the students knowledge and appreciation of
American History by developing the skills and social studies concepts necessary for an
understanding of the countrys past and an appreciation of its present and future. The concepts
are drawn from the political, social, economic and cultural aspects of American History.

COURSE METHODS:
1. Reading from textbook, literature and other material
2. Lectures and note taking
3. Class discussions relating to assigned readings
4. Films and slide shows
5. Homework including both assigned readings and written responses
6. Term project
7. Current events
8. Small group activities

GRADING POLICY AND SCHOLARSHIP:

1. Tests will comprise 40% of a students grade.
2. Quizzes will comprise 20% of a students grade.
3. Assigned homework & projects will comprise 20% of a students grade.
4. Class participation, including current events assignments, will comprise 20% of a students
grade.

CLASSROOM RULES AND POLICIES:

1. The student is to be on time, in assigned seat and beginning work by the time the bell rings.
2. The student will come to class prepared to work & learn.
3. Respect the authority of the teacher and the rights of all students to learn. Obtain teacher
recognition before speaking; do not talk when the teacher or an acknowledged student is
speaking.
4. Electronic devices & their accessories, such as cell phones, MP3 players, ear buds, head
phones, charging devices, or similar items, will not be used in class unless the teacher
specifically authorizes such use. These items are therefore to be kept and stored out of sight, in
purse, backpack, or pocket.
5. Obey and follow all school rules, respect others, their material & their property.

HOMEWORK:
Homework assignments will be given, as deemed necessary, by the teacher. Students are
expected to complete all homework, and to manage their time in such a way as to meet all
homework due dates. Late work will be downgraded on a sliding scale.

LEARNING EXPECTATION:
The state of Pennsylvania has adopted educational standards that describe the knowledge and
skill sets that the student is expected to acquire as the result of this course of study. Mr. Hughes
will plan lessons that address these standards and will deliver a curriculum that meets the
Pennsylvania Standards. In order to acquire the proper knowledge and skill sets mentioned, the
student must make the effort to learn, by accepting responsibility for all work assigned.

PARENT COOPERATION & INVOLVEMENT:

In order to maximize the learning process, Mr. Hughes encourages parents to talk to their
student(s) about school, homework, tests and projects, and to provide a home environment that
supports learning. Mr. Hughes may call parents from time to time, to let them know how their
student is doing in class. Parents should feel free to contact Mr. Hughes by email, or by phone,
with any question about how their student is doing.