- Park Forest Middle School
- Course Syllabus
Brennan, Jamie, 8th Grade - Social Studies
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Course Name: Reform, Revolution and the American Experiment
Course Overview:
The first semester of this course focuses on the exploration of global history from the Protestant Reformation in Europe to the French Revolution. Throughout this course, students will grow in the understanding of how geography, economics, and civics shaped the world at that time and the impact those decisions had within a historical context. In the second semester of this course, students will use their knowledge of Enlightenment ideas as driving forces for the creation of the American Experiment and as a segue to study of American civics.
Units of Study:
Unit 1: Reforming Europe
Unit 2: The Sun Rises in the East
Unit 3: The Sun Sets in the West
Unit 4: Absolute Power Corrupts Absolutely; Who Died and Made you King?
Unit 5: Enlightenment and Revolution
Unit 6: So You Want to Be a Citizen
Unit 7: Let Me Read You Your Rights
Unit 8: Three Ring Circus
Unit 9: I Approve This Message
Unit 10: Close To Home
Class Rules and Expectations:
1. Please come to class prepared. You will need to bring the following to class:- Chromebook
*Please be on time to class each day!
2. Absences: If a student is absent, it is the student's responsibility to check in with me via email or in person. The student is also able to check google classroom to see what was missed. Students have one make-up day for every day of class missed per the student handbook. If a student is absent from school for multiple days, then extended time may be given. I am flexible with make-up work as long as students communicate with me!
3. Grades:
Grades are based on points. Total number of points will be converted to a percent out of the total points possible. Grades are based on the following:- Tests/Assessments: There will be a final test or other summative assessment after each unit. Assessments may include tests or projects.
- Homework/Classwork: Homework and classwork will be randomly assigned. There will not be much homework in this class as long as students use their time wisely to complete classwork.
- Projects and class activities: Both projects and activities (individual and group) will occur throughout the year. At least one project or activity will occur for each unit. A daily agenda and homework assignments will be written on the board at all times. Students share responsibility for recording due dates in their assignment book.
4. Help: Students may ask for help ANY time. If a student does not understand something, AREA is a great time to check in with me.