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Howard Phifer Middle
MR. William Garwood
Room: G -12
You will be given a textbook to take home for your own use. You will also be given a sign-on for access to the digital online textbook.
In the 8th grade, students will study the time span that includes the development of the new American Republic during the Jefferson Era, the War of 1812, Westward Expansion and the affects it had on Native Americans, the land and other nations. We will look at the causes and main events that lead to the American Civil War. Lastly we will study complex issues surrounding Reconstruction after the war.
The instructor reserves the right to deal with specific late work and make-up work issues on a case by case basis. The general rules that will apply are as follows:
If you are absent, it is YOUR responsibility to get the work from my missing assignment file sorter or download the work from my website.
You have 2 days to make up the work or else it will be considered late
Late assignments will be faced with a GRADE DEDUCTION.
Late work will be accepted until the end of each quarter.
3-Ring Binder and loose leaf paper. You don’t need a separate notebook for this class
We will watch multiple historically based videos & clips. The video ratings range from G-PG 13 and may contain re-enactments of wars or war like images. If you don’t not feel comfortable having your child view these types of images please let me know.
Internet access will be a must for certain homework assignments. You will also have access to computer labs afterschool.
Remind updates - Make sure you are signed up to get text alerts. Parents and students are encouraged to sign up
I will update my teacher webpage periodically, here students can find all the assignments and other class information
You can me at anytime.
If you have a smartphone or tablet please download this app.
Class Part.
Classwork
10%
Quizzes
20%
25%
35%
10%
Homework
Tests/ Projects
100 93 85 77 69

2. PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN
US History Syllabus
Continued…
STUDENT SKILL
Welcome back to History class! Throughout the year, we will engage in the art of historical inquiry just like true historians do. The students will be asked to read, analyze, question, critically think, and problem solve events of the past. We will learn how to investigate historical events by analyzing and questioning historical materials (such as written sources, artifacts, photographs, political cartoons, and historical maps). Students will be challenged with the task of developing the core literacy skills of reading, writing, and speaking. They will work on these skills frequently and with a purpose. 
To increase critical thinking skills.
To develop skills in taking part in class discussions.
To learn how to analyze and evaluate information from different sources.
To develop important study skills and habits.
To gain skills in finding the main ideas from all forms: lectures, presentations, textbooks, articles and videos.
To develop a comfort level with reading, writing, and speaking skills associated with US History.
Student behavior will be measured in the form of Health Points (HP). All students start off with 70 HP. Students who conduct themselves in inappropriate manners may lose HP, depending on the situation. Situations where HP may be lost include:
Disrupting the class.
Late or missing homework.
Late to class.
Frequent bathroom breaks ( without note from parent or doctor).
Students who reach 0 HP must roll the dice of fate and accept the consequence given to them. The instructor reserves the right to handle each particular discipline situation case by case. Parents/guardians will be contacted concerning any persistent or major problems. Referrals to Mrs. Gery (Asst. principal for the 8th grade) will be the final option.
PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN
I have reviewed the materials in the syllabus, grading policy, goals, expectations, and all other details.
Student Name (please print): ____________________________________________________________
Student Signature: ______________________________________________ Date:_______________
Parent / Guardian Signature:______________________________________ Date:_______________
Parent / Guardian Contact Information:
Best phone number to reach you: __________________________________
Address (Please print clearly): ____________________________________________________
Do you have internet access at home? Y / N (Circle One))
Is there anything you would like to share about your child that you think would help me best understand your child’s educational needs? (i.e. allergies, medical, home life, academic or social concerns)