United States History A
Course Outline 2015-16
Teacher: Coach Fraker Teacherblog; http://lhsblogs.typepad.com/fraker/
Description of the Course
United States History is a survey of the United States from discovery to the present. The purpose of the course is to help the student recognize not only what happened in our country’s history, but also how and why these things have taken place and how the past affects the present and the future.
· The first semester we will focus on “the causes of the American Revolution” to 1900. Second semester we will study 1900 to the present.
Evaluation
· Students and parents are encouraged to monitor Synergy for frequent grade updates.
· Grade categories:
Major Grades 60% (Unit tests, Optional extra projects/papers, Projects)
Minor Grades 25% (quizzes, daily classwork, homework, small projects)
Final Exam 15%
· Testing: Major test will be given on Monday, Wednesday or Friday.
Classroom Procedures
· Academic Integrity: Cheating is considered a serious matter. Students involved in cheating (whether giving or receiving answers) will receive a grade of zero for the assignment. Cheating includes: helping, checking answers, sharing, plagiarism, etc
· Cell Phones: On occasion student will be able to or asked to use cell phones in class for certain research activities. Other than these times, it is expected that cell phones NOT be used for texting, game playing, or other activities during class.
· Tardies: Students who are not in the room when the bell rings are tardy. Tardy students should immediately report to LAS and then class.
· Makeup Work: Check with the teacher and the blog to find out what you missed. I will do my best to keep the blog up do date with all assignments, readings, videos, test dates, etc…that are needed. If you are absent, check the blog. When in doubt about something, check the blog.
· Supplies: 3 ring binder, a little notebook paper, pencils, pens, LOTS of 3x5 notecards. Colored pencils will helpful but not necessary.
End of Course Tests In May 2015, students will take the State End of Course Test (EOCT) over content from both semesters A and B. The State mandates that the score will count 20% of the second semester grade and it is printed on the student’s transcript.
Tips to be successful in Coach Fraker’s U. S. History Class
· Use notecards to take notes. These can/should be used for all key terms or vocabulary.
· Read the Fraker Tales versions several times while making sure that you understand the information and any key terms that are bold and underlined.
· Always read over the notes/review notecards the night they are taken. If they don’t make sense, compare them with another student’s or ask questions when we review them before the next day of notes.
· When completing a reading guide, READ THE CHAPTER rather than hunting for key words, bold print and section titles.
· Keep an organized notebook. Whenever you are given a paper, put it in the back of your notebook (not in your textbook).
· Before a test, ask someone to call out the terms, people, events, etc. listed on your notes. Then explain it to them. If you can explain the history to someone else, you know it.
· Complete all work when assigned and turn it in on time.
· Study the history a little at a time instead of waiting until the night before a test. Cramming at the last minute rarely works. It is best to study 10 – 15 minutes several times a week.
· While studying, instrumental music is fine but turn off the songs. Only text, tweet, etc. at preset intervals i.e. Study 20 minutes then reward yourself with a break for electronics.
Used properly, the above tips should be more than enough for most students to earn excellent grades. However, if
you need further help, try these:
· Study U. S. History 15 minutes every day.
· Ask another student if you can make a copy of his/her notes to supplement yours.
· Define and identify (on paper or flashcards) the people, places, and events that are listed on the notes.
· Outline the textbook chapters by reading it and then writing down key information.