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**World History I** **2011-2012 School Year**
 * Mr. Lofgren**

Welcome to World History I and the 2011-2012 school year! This course will cover the history of humanity from its origins to the middle ages and the beginnings of the modern world. It is designed to help students understand the impact that past events have on the present and to identify the recurring themes that drive our history. Research skills, including primary source analysis, analytical and creative writing, and critical thought are the focus of this course.

Beck, Robert, et al. //World History: Patterns of Interaction//.Orlando: Holt McDougal, 2011.
 * Text:**

Supplemental readings will be supplied as needed.

You are expected to be in class on time. All tardies will be turned into the office. When class begins you should already be in your seat.
 * Tardies/Bell Activities:**

Homework will involve vocabulary, discussion questions, readings and assigned projects.
 * Homework:**

Quarter grades will be determined using the following percentages:
 * Grades:**

Homework 20% Quizzes 30% Tests 50%


 * __ Homework: __** Homework is assigned to prepare you for class the following day, or to help you gain a better understanding of material covered the day before. Therefore, homework assignments are to be completed on time and collected or checked at the beginning of class the day they are due. Homework assignments will include (but are not limited to) textbook readings, worksheets, written responses, and portions of class projects. Homework completed one day late will be given a maximum 70% of the total points and a zero after that. If you are absent on the day homework is checked or collected, the homework is due the day you return to school. **IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO HAND IN ANY MISSED ASSIGNMENTS AND TO RECEIVE ANY WORK THAT YOU MISSED!**


 * __ Tests/Quizzes: __** There will be three or four tests each quarter and a number of quizzes, covering material from class discussions, readings, and other class and homework activities. Make-up tests/quizzes will be given during your study hall. Arrangements will be made on an individual basis


 * __ Grades: __** Grades are based on points accumulated on homework assignments, classroom assignments, presentations, project, quizzes/tests, and class participation.


 * __ Accountability, Honor, and Integrity: __** Be sure you understand the instructions for your assignment. I will go over them with you as a class and provide written instructions for assignments, as well. Understanding the expectations for an assignment is your responsibility and will help you avoid honor issues in the future. If you are unclear or uncertain, ask me to go over the instructions again. While we will do a number of group activities, all work is to be completed on an individual basis unless you are given other instructions by me. **Every assignment, whether it is a research paper, a test, or a five-point homework assignment is considered to be “pledged.”** Take pride in your own work and your own ideas, and when appropriate cite your sources to credit the work of others.

Please ask me any questions that arise during the school day in person. I share a room with Mr. Liese but if you cannot find me there I will be available either in the History department work room or the Library. After school, please email me with any questions that you may have. I prefer to discuss and answer questions with you in person, and may ask that you set up a time for us to meet to address more lengthy questions or concerns. Good communication is essential for a successful year. My school email is: dlofgren@randolphschool.net. In the event of an emergency I can be reached at 256-655-5946.
 * __Contacting Mr. Lofgren:__**

We will use laptops regularly in class and you will need to have your laptop to access your text book, which is available online. You are expected of abide at all times by the acceptable use policy you sign when you receive your laptop.
 * Lap-tops:**

Computer problems are not acceptable excuses for not turning in work, nor are printer issues. **You must have your assignments printed and ready BEFORE class**. You will not be allowed to leave to pick up assignments from the printer during class. Students are expected to make back-up copies of their work. The more ways you back up your data the better.
 * Important:**


 * __ Course Outline: __**
 * __ First Semester __**
 * 1) Human Beginnings
 * 2) The Rise of Early Civilizations and Kingdoms
 * 3) The Vedic Age and Eastern Religions
 * 4) Early America
 * 5) Ancient Greece
 * 6) Ancient Rome
 * 7) African Kingdoms
 * 8) Chinese Dynasties
 * 9) The Byzantine Empire
 * 10) Islamic Civilization
 * 11) Middle Ages
 * 12) Rise of European Monarchies

During the course of the year it is important to keep and open mind as we discuss cultures with values that may be drastically different from your own. Feel free to express your opinions and be ready to defend them. I do not tolerate disrespect towards me, the material, or other students.