Latin American Studies

Latin American Studies is a one semester course that examines the historical, political, economic, and most importantly cultural achievements of the modern countries located in this region of the world. 

• Objectives

• Expectations

• Materials

• Grading

• Semester Grades

• Absences/Make-Ups

• Course Outline

• Applications

Student Objectives: 

As a result of completing this course, the student will be able to:

1. Locate and identify the geographic region known as Latin America.
2. Explain the impact of geography on the political and economic development of the region.
3. Identify the major indigenous groups that lived in the region and explain their contributions to modern civilization.
4. Describe local situations and issues existing in Latin America today.
5. Identify individuals who contributed to the development of the modern nations.
6. Understand the rich heritage of Latin America as it expands its global influence in the 21^st century.
7. Recognize the importance of appreciating the cultural differences between the United States and all nations.

Student Expectations:

As active participants in a student focused learning environment, the student will be expected to:

1. Be on time!
2. Complete all assigned work in good order by the due date.
3. Participate in classroom discussion, activities, and projects.
4. Maintain an assignment book and class folder with all class materials.
5. Successfully pass all evaluations and the semester examination.
6. See the teacher immediately with any concerns you have.
7. Strive for excellence.

Materials for student success in Latin American Studies:

1. Pocket folder for course materials and notes
2. Blue/black and red or green pen everyday
3. Textbook, class notes, worksheets, maps, and all related class matierals
4. Submit all materials on time.

Grading Scale:   A+ = 97 – 100             A = 93 - 96                 A- = 90 – 92

                                B+ = 87 - 89                B = 83 – 86                 B- = 80 - 82

                                C+ = 77 - 79                C = 73 – 76                 C- = 70 - 72

                                D+ = 67 - 69               D = 63 – 66                 D- = 60 - 62

                                F = 0 - 59

Semester Grades:    Quarter1 equals 40%; Quarter2 equals 40%; Final Exam equals 20% of the recorded semester grade.

Absences/Make-Ups:

Obtain your work on the day you return from an absence. Any work due on the day of your absence is due the day you return. You have one day for each day you are absent plus one day to complete missed assignments. Tests and quizzes missed due to an absence must be taken during the scheduled make-up time.

Course Outline

Real World Application: The knowledge and skills obtained in this course will help students to develop an understanding of Latin America with its rich and diverse cultures, its varied political and social issues, and its monumental contributions to the entertainment world.  Such an imagination is the mark of every good student of history.  Students will be able to use these skills in their relationships with other people throughout life, in pursuing success in their careers, family relationships, and community associations.

Enjoy your semester!

Sociology | World Cultures | Latin American Studies | NHS

Contact me: gerry.sansone@lz95.org         Phone:  847-540-5418        Voice Mail: 4356
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