U.S. History
GRADE 11
Mr. Frommeyer’s 2017-2018 Syllabus
Course Website: http://www.laquintahs.org
Students and Parents:
Welcome! I am looking forward to an exciting and challenging 2017-2018 school year. The academic rigor of this U.S. History course is outlined below. Meeting this challenge will reward each student with success and a great sense of accomplishment.
Course Objective and Disclaimer:
The course objective as stated in the History-Social Science Framework for California Public Schools, “In this course students examine major turning points in American history in the twentieth century. During the year certain themes will be emphasized: the expanding role of the federal government and federal courts; the continuing tension between the individual and the state and between minority rights and majority power; the emergence of a modern corporate economy; the role of the federal government and Federal Reserve System in the economy; the impact of technology on American society and culture; change in the ethnic composition of American society; the movements toward equal rights for racial minorities and women; and the role of the United States as a major world power. In each unit students will examine American culture, including religion, literature, art, drama, architecture, education, and the mass media.”
The discussion of volatile issues in class will reflect varying points of view. Students will discover and develop skills enabling them to better analyze historic events, synthesize abstract relationships, as well as evaluate differing opinions and making value judgments. Parental interest is welcome.
School Calendar:
By now, all students should have in their possession a copy of the Student Planner. The Student Planner contains the official school calendar as well as school policies and procedures. Should this not be the case for you, please contact the administrative staff in the Principal’s Office. Additionally, school resources are provided and available to parents on the La Quinta High School website: http://www.laquintahs.org .
Textbook:
At the core of the 11th Grade U.S. History Course is our textbook, The AMERICANS: Reconstruction to the 21st Century, published by McDougal Littell. The textbook is required reading and chapter readings will be assigned for homework.
Classroom Structure and Responsibilities:
Class begins the moment the bell rings. Students are responsible for being in their seat when the bell rings, coming to class each day with paper, pen and/or pencil for taking notes, and being prepared for the day’s lesson. Class sessions will include lectures, discussions, group activities, in-class reading and writing assignments, oral presentations, as well as collaborative learning situations. Audio visual presentations will be included as time allows. Note-taking and outlining skills will be introduced the first week of class and will be reinforced throughout the year.
Classroom Expectations:
All students are capable of learning, achieving, and growing academically. My classroom is designated as a sanctuary for learners. Students are expected to behave in a responsible manner that reflects their status as young adults. Respect for others and the property of others is the primary way of demonstrating acceptable behavior. The Student Planner clearly outlines school policy. Consequences for a lack of respect in the classroom or for disregarding school policy are: the first inappropriate behavior is met with a warning; the second inappropriate behavior results in a phone call to the student’s parents; and the final consequence of inappropriate behavior becomes the problem of the student, the parents, and the principal.
Technology:
Computers are integral parts of the world in which we live. Students will be utilizing computers in numerous ways throughout the year. Certain lessons will be presented on Power Point Slides. Student research, class projects and individual or group oral reports may also rely on the use of computers. Students will be encouraged to incorporate the computer into her/his work. Student access to computers at school facilitates such usage.
Homework:
All Homework Assignments will be given with corresponding due dates. These assignments and due dates will be posted on the classroom white board and on the course website. Completion and submission of all homework is required on the day that it is due.
Readings, term papers, and individual or group projects will be assigned early enough to enable proper preparation by the student.
Grading:
Grading criteria are as follows: Student assessments account for 60% of the semester grade which includes tests, essays, and student presentations. Homework assignments (reading notes), classwork, and practice assignments account for the remaining 40% of the semester grade. Class participation is required.
Tutorial:
I am available daily in my classroom, Room 505, for student assistance. My classroom door will generally be open from 9:01 AM – 3:30 PM for student consults (unless posted differently as a result of staff meetings etc.). Before school meetings are arranged by appointment. Parents, feel free to contact me. My school email address is: .
SOCIAL CONTRACT:
U.S. History
Grade 11
I have read the course syllabus and understand my responsibilities. In addition, I clearly understand Mr. Frommeyer’s expectations as they pertain to me being enrolled in his U.S. History Course.
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PRINT (above line) – Student name
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Student Signature Date
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Parent/Guardian Signature Date