La Conner High School

Course: 9th Grade World History

Instructor: Mr. Voorhees

Phone: (360) 466-3173 ext. 1243

Email:

Textbook: “Holt World History – The Human Legacy”

Course Goal: To create foundation of world knowledge using geography, economics, civics and history. The World History course is built upon the foundation created in the elementary and middle school Social Studies programs. I am hoping to expand on the background knowledge from students’ previous experiences in an exciting and challenging manner.

The Freshman World History class is a semester long course that will be examining several themes spanning from pre-Columbian History circa 1450 to 1750. Some of the major themes we will cover during the semester are:

  • World Religions
  • Exploration
  • Encounter with Indigenous populations

Materials

It is also the student’s responsibility to be prepared for class every day. Students will need to bring the following items to class every day:

  • Notebook (3-Ring Binder)
  • pen – blue/black
  • Loose leaf paper (College Ruled)
  • #2 Pencils
  • USB Flash Drive (Desired)

Course Requirements: Lectures will provide information and ideas that will not be found in the text. Students will also need to encounter the class text on a regular basis. Therefore, students are expected to take notes that will provide them the needed information to be successful on the assessments.

Assessment: This class will be graded using a standards-based assessment model using a 4,3,2,1-rubric system that emphasizes the student’s ability to communicate mastery of a specific standard or learning target. This is a continuing assessment process that will allow students an opportunity to improve their scores through multiple attempts. Each standard will consist of a formative (practice) attempt(s) and a summative assessment that will be factored into the final grade.

The final assessment for this class will be a Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) that will cover several standards and therefore be a significant portion of the course grade.

The Washington State Standards for this class can be found at:

or by clicking on the link from the class website.

Graduation Requirement: This class is a graduation requirement.

Late Work Policy: Late work will not be penalized however, the time for corrections, feed back, and input into grade book will be longer for late work. All late work will need to be turned in at least two weeks before the end of the grading period (quarter).

Class Webpage: A webpage will be available for student access. It will consist of weekly assignments, resources used in class and also a number of supplementary sites designed to enhance the course. Students can access it by going to the La Conner School District home page ( click on staff and under Social Studies/History, Peter Voorhees. Then on the left side of the screen click on the course you are enrolled in to access pertinent information.

Testing Policy: Students are to take tests on the date to which they are assigned. Missing the day before a test does not constitute a one-day extension. If a student has an excused absence the day of a test, he/she will have a maximum of two days to make-up the test before or after school in my classroom. Students who are struggling or need extra help are expected to take advantage tutorial after school, or come in before school to meet with me and discuss how we can help get the student caught up.

Class Expectations: Respect. Everyone has a right to learn in a safe environment - impeding other students’ ability to learn will not be tolerated. Respect also includes coming to class on time and prepared to work every day. Cell phones, food and drinks are NOT allowed in class (water in a clear plastic bottle is ok).

If you fail to meet these expectations, you can expect an intervention. The interventions are as follows:

  1. Verbal warning
  2. Teacher-student chat *Note: Serious infractions will
  3. Teacher-student-parent chat result in immediate removal
  4. Refer to counselor/administrator and a meeting with a counselor.

Remember, be an active and appropriate participant in class!

Classroom Routines:

Hall/Bathroom Pass: I want you in class the whole time please use the restroom during the passing period. If you need to leave class your will own the same amount of time you were gone during the passing period.

Unpreparedness (not having your supplies): If you do not come to class prepared I will try to have extra supplies on hand and will give you a pen or pencil in exchange for a call home after class.

Tardy Policy: You will need a note from the office or teacher for late admittance into class. Arriving over 5 minutes late to class you will be counted as truant without a note from the office.

Please return this piece of paper to Mr. Voorhees signed by both the Student and Parent/Guardian by Wednesday September 8, 2010.

My son/daughter ______(student) and I have read the syllabus and know how to appropriately address any questions or concerns with the policies and procedures associated with Mr. Voorhees World History 9 class.

X______Parent/Guardian ______Date

X ______Student ______Date