Welcome to junior year and United States History and Government 11R. This course traces the development of the United States and its institutions from the colonial period to the present, incorporating major social, political, and economic issues and trends that shape today’s America. Throughout the course students study the Constitution to monitor the changing political norms of our growing nation. All students enrolled in this course are required to take the United States History and Government Regents exam in June.
Class Expectations
Students are expected to arrive to class promptly and to have the necessary materials with them. Students should act in a socially acceptable manner, demonstrating respect for peers, for the instructor and for school property. This way we will be able to keep the distractions to a minimum and maximize learning.
Extra Help
Extra help is available every day. Please ask for it!!!
Homework
Homework consists of two parts: reading and writing. It is imperative that the student read all the assigned material; otherwise, the student will not be prepared to complete the homework and discuss the material appropriately. Homework should be done in blue or black ink with a proper heading. All questions should be answered in complete sentences. Half of the battle is vocabulary. You will be required to make a set of vocabulary flashcards on 3-by-5 inch index cards for the key terms introduced in each unit. As you make the cards, you are already beginning to learn the vocabulary. These flashcards provide an excellent means of review. Homework must be handed in the class period that it is due. Assignments handed in one day late will receive half credit. Assignments handed in more than one day late will not be accepted. Parents will be called after two missed assignments..
Quizzes and Exams
Quizzes are generally given on a daily basis and are based on already covered material. Vocabulary quizzes will consist of the chapter vocabulary and will be given on the third day after the previous unit exam Exams are given at the end of each chapter with advance notice. Each exam will include material from class notes, homework, and readings. If an exam is missed due to absence, a makeup test must be taken within 5 days of returning to school. All makeup exams will be given in the activity period. It is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed assignments and notes.
Attendance
All students must be in class when scheduled. Students that are late to class without a pass will have one point deducted from their quarter average for each lateness. Students that cut class will have 3 points deducted from their quarter average for each class cut. Please see your Student handbook for school policy regarding attendance, lateness to class and truancy.
Projects
Projects may be given at the discretion of your teacher. Project grades equal two exam grades.
Participation/Motivation
A student is participating in class when the student:
 | Is prompt and attends class regularly; |
| Participates actively and regularly in group work by offering ideas and asking questions; |
| Listens respectfully when others talk, both in groups and in class; |
| Has his or her homework completed, out ready to be checked, reviewed or collected; |
| Does not disrupt class with private conversation. |
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New York State Social Studies Standards
The New York Social Studies Standards: History of the United States and New York, World History, Geography, Economics, and Civics are incorporated into the course work when appropriate.
Grading Policy
Quarter Grades will be computed as follows:
Exams 80% Homework and participation 20%
Textbook and Supplies
| America Pathways to the Present. Andrew Cayton, Linda Reed, Elisabeth Israels Perry and Allan M. Winkler. |
| Perforated spiral notebook |
| 3 hole binder for handouts |
| Blue or black ballpoint pens; no. 2 pencils and colored pencils for map work. |
| Two packs of 4x6 index cards |
| Brief Review in United States History and Government. Bonnie-Anne Briggs and Catherine Fish Peterson. The cost of this review book is $9.00. |
Final Note
While the demands of this course are rigorous I believe that Social Studies can also be fun. Hopefully, we will be able to balance the two. Please do not hesitate to speak to me on any issue, as your input is always welcomed. Good luck in the coming year.