World Cultures

Credits: 1 Credit 9^th Grade English & 1 Credit 9thGrade World History

World Cultures offers a thematic approach to the teaching of World History, literature and writing. This is a 2 semester, 2 consecutive period, freshman level class. This course is intended for the highly motivated, college prep student. World Cultures is an integrated curriculum that fulfills both the freshman World History and English I graduation requirement.

Objectives
Content
Evaluation and Assessment
Homework
Grading Scale
Semester Grades
Absences/Make-Ups
Classroom Expectations
Supplies

Objectives:

As readers, students will . . .

1. Acquire a well-synthesized, working knowledge of major historical events tied to the corresponding literature of the period.

2. Analyze the literature and history of various cultures

3. Think critically about events, characters, myths and legends and apply their insights

To relevant life situations

4. Understand the development and use of language throughout diverse cultures

5. Recognize how literary elements and cultural influences are developed and contribute to literature, political and governmental movements

6. Draw logical conclusions based on evidence and be able to summarize ideas, arguments, and develop focused lines of reasoning.

As writers, students will . . .

1. describe the political, economic, and cultural impact of major historical events on the world and demonstrate this understanding through writing

2. further their ability to communicate information, ideas, and beliefs in a variety of modes (descriptive, expository, persuasive, and narrative) and to a variety of audiences

3. express their ideas critically and analytically

4. provide support for their ideas and opinions

5. revise and edit writing assignments using standard English conventions appropriate to grade levels

6. use library skills effectively to locate research materials

7. demonstrate ability to integrate vocabulary skills related to selected historical periods and literary works.

As speakers, students will . . .

1. continue to develop the ability to speak and listen effectively concerning a diverse subject base

2. evaluate ideas according to personal and/or objective criteria

3. express themselves orally to entertain and to inform

4. interpret information and apply it in a variety of formats (peer discussions, class discussions, and projects).

Major Content Areas:

The content of this course focuses on thematic elements in literature and history. The major content areas include:

Semester One: Ancient civilizations including Greece and Rome, Religions (Christianity, Islam, Judaism), Non-western civilizations (China, India, Africa)

Semester Two: The Middle Ages, the Renaissance, Reformation, scientific, cultural and political revolutions, modern wars, and modern political thought.

Evaluation and Assessment:

Assessment of individual student progress includes, but is not limited to:

Quizzes, Unit Tests, homework, projects, research papers, written assignments, and/or class participation.

In a student centered classroom, we assess and evaluate growth in ways which motivate students to use language for effective communication. Students perceive themselves as partners with teachers in the learning process. Students will be encouraged to assess their own competence, determine goals for achievement, and judge their own performance. As students learn to assess and evaluate their own work, they become empowered to take increasing responsibility for their learning.

Homework:

Homework is assigned four to five nights per week. The assignments reinforce concepts introduced in the classroom. Keep all homework papers until the end of the semester. Do not throw anything away. Late homework is not accepted.

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%.

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.

Classroom Expectations:

Have all materials with you for class – texts, notebook, pen, homework.

Come to class on time prepared to begin work.

Be respectful of others beliefs, questions, and comments.

Be respectful of classroom facilities and property.

Use the washroom during passing period. Locker and washroom passes are NOT available.

See the teacher immediately with any concerns you have.

Strive for excellence.

SUPPLY LIST

1. Assignment Book (You can use the handbook distributed by the school!

2. Notebook paper

3. 2 inch/3-ring binder with pockets divided for