Course Syllabus & Guidelines

Western Hemisphere Geography & History 2016-2017

Mr.
McNeil Rm. B115
Email: ctmcneil@ockps.org
Website:mcneilsocialstudies.com
Planning Period: 3A/B except on Tuesdays/Thursdays (Team Meetings)
Lunch Hour: 11:00 to 11:30
Reassessment Schedule
Monday:(7:45 to 8:30)/ (3:40 to 4:30)
Tuesday:(7:45 to 8:30)/ (3:40 to 4:30)
Wednesday:(3:40 to 4:30)
Thursday:(7:45 to 8:30)
Friday:(7:45 to 8:30)/ (3:40 to 4:30)
Course Description: This class is a yearlong course that will cover a broad range of historic and geographic
information. from understanding how to read and use maps to studying the earths layers as well as studying
history of the Americas as well as Greek & Roman.We will also stress quality writing of historical answers in
our assessments and projects to ensure preparation for future middle and high school history courses as well as
preparation for the collegiate level. We will work towards writing notes and written responses for high school
as well as college preparation.
CLASSROOM PROCEDURES:
Be on time to class every day, come into the room and sit in your seat.
If there is a warm up assignment on the board, please get your binder and get started. If not, please have
out your notes and something to write so you are ready to start class.
You will need a three-ringed binder to keep all handout materials and will be checked periodically
No FOOD or CANDY in class. Drinks are allowed as long as they are in a spill proof container.
We will use YouTube, History Channel, Discovery Channel, and other internet video clips as they pertain to
our area of study.
Supplies: bring DAILY
Pens/Pencils: only black ink on written assessments
Class agenda
3 Ring binder
Highlighter to aid in note taking/studying
------------------------------------Please cut along this line & turn into teacher-------------------------I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE GUIDELINE THAT HAVE BEEN PRESENTED TO ME. MY SIGNATURE BELOW
INDICATES THAT I WILL ABIDE BY ALL GUIDELINES THAT HAVE BEEN STATES.

____________________________
Student signature
____________________________
Student name PRINT please

__________________________________________
Parental or Guardian Signature
____________________________________________
Parent or Guardian PRINT please

Standard Based Grading

The standard based grading system is designed for students to fully understand what they are being tested or
assessed on. For example, the gradebook will NOT state things like Unit or Chapter 1 test. Instead the
assessments will be based on I can statements. For example, I can analyze the processes within Earths surface
and how they affect earths surface. Students will be able to use notes, maps, and other items that we have
created in class on the assessments. Also students can reassess on assessments.
4- Innovating: I am using my knowledge above and beyond what was taught in class.
3- Applying: I am confident in my knowledge and am able to use this concept or skill properly on my own.
2Developing: I am building my knowledge, but I have a few questions or I need help sometimes.
1Beginning: I am beginning to understand, but I need a lot of help.
0-No Evidence: I have yet to show evidence of learning.
Scale
4= 100%
3= 93%
2= 75%
1= 60%
0= 50%
ALL SCHOOL POLICIES and RULES WILL BE FOLLOWED!

EXPECTATIONS:

Follow Daily Classroom Expectations and everything will run smoothly.

Respect yourself, classmates, and the teacher.
Participate in class.
All handouts and notes will be kept in a 1or 2 binder
Do not be tardy!
Bring your materials and expect to learn EVERYDAY.

Keep organized!

It will help keep you focused and improve your chances for success.

Need Help:
Please ask for whatever help you may need. I am available before and after class daily, also available during
Odyssey. Just ask and we will work together to help your needs.