US History Syllabus

In this course, which is the second part of a two-year study of U.S. history that begins in Grade 8, you
will study the history of the United States from Reconstruction (1877) until the present.
Course Themes:
As we study the United States in the modern era, we will explore the following broad themes:

The development of common social and political values

The development of American capitalism and its relationship with the American national
government

The evolution of the American political system, the Presidents, and the Presidency

Industrialization, technology, and America's role in global markets

The following materials are required for participation in our classes:
Pencils and pens
One large three-ring binder

Spiral-bound or composition
notebooks
Binder dividers

Loose-leaf notebook paper

Pocket folders

We will use several different modes of inquiry (ways of obtaining knowledge) in this class, including:

Independent reading and work

Group work and presentations

Essay assignments

Media presentations (film and PowerPoint)

Discussion and lectures

The grades you receive on your assignments throughout the semester will contribute to your overall grade
depending on how they allocated into Dallas Independent School District's standard grading policy.

Classwork/Homework: 50 percent

Tests: 20 percent

Projects/Products: 20 percent

Six-week test: 10 percent

At the start of each semester, you will begin with an "A" average. I want you all to do well in this class,
and believe you all can succeed in it. It is your responsibility to maintain this average.
Course Rules and Guidelines
Make-up work: Work assigned prior to an absence must be submitted on the day your return from your
absence. This policy is consistent with school policy. Any make-up work incurred over a longer absence
will be treated with flexibility upon return.
To make-up an exam please see me and we will arrange a time that is convenient for both parties.
Exams must be made up within 48 hours of the absence unless permission is given to extend the
timeframe.

All other school rules apply in this class. The most important rule in all my classes is that, while we are
sharing a room, we will respect each others' thoughts, feelings, opinions, and persons. Any actions that
break this rule or disrupt our class will be subject to disciplinary action.
Retest Policy: A grade of 69 or below is eligible for a retest on an exam only. The highest grade that can
be received is a 70. There will be no retests on quizzes. You must retest an exam within 24-hours of
receiving your initial grade on the exam.
Late Work: Late work will be accepted for a maximum of three days:
One day late -15 points off
Two days late- 30 points off
Three days- 50 points off
Units and Themes

Unit One: Foundations and Background to American History

Unit Two: Industrialization and the Gilded Age
Unit Three: American Society in Transition
Unit Four: The Progressive Era
Unit Five: America builds an Empire
Unit Six: America in WWI
Unit Seven: The Roaring Twenties
Unit Eight: The Great Depression and the New Deal
Unit Nine: America in WWII
Unit Ten: America in the Cold War and the Civil Rights Years
Unit Eleven: The Sixties: A Decade of Protest and Change
Unit Twelve: Crisis and Resurgence
Unit Thirteen: America in the New Millennium

Please sign this document and return it to me within one day of receiving it. Your signed syllabus will
count for a grade.
I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES LISTED IN THIS SYLLABUS.

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Also, please have a parent or guardian sign this document on the line below.
I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTAND THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES LISTED IN THIS SYLLABUS.

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