CIVICS SYLLABUS
Course Description: This course is offered to juniors and seniors to meet Waterloo High School graduation requirements and to fulfill the federal and state constitution requirements established by state law. In order to graduate from high school, the State of Illinois requires students to pass an examination on the following subjects: Illinois constitution, U.S. constitution, Declaration of Independence and proper use and display of the American Flag. This course focuses on the political system of the United States; understanding the structures and functions of the political systems of Illinois, the United States and other nations; understanding the election process and responsibilities of citizens; understanding the roles and influences of individuals and interests groups; understanding foreign policy; understanding the development of the U.S. political ideas and traditions. The focal point will be on the three branches of government and their functions at the state and federal level. A service learning requirement will be incorporated in this course.
Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities (Learn and Serve America National Service Learning Clearinghouse).
Grading Information: Grades will be taken from homework assignments, quizzes, tests and possible individual and group projects. Grades will be based on total points. (Grading may change at teacher’s discretion.) Students and parents are encouraged to view the student’s progress through the use our schools grading program. Grades will be updated regularly. Extra credit may be available throughout the semester. Grading scale is in handbook. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to meet with me and make up your work.
Late Policy: Each assignment is to be completed on time. If an assignment is one day late, you will receive half credit for the work turned in. If an assignment is more than one day late, you will receive a zero. You are expected to turn all work in no matter if it is late or not.
Note taking/discussion: There will be some note taking in this class and organization is an important aspect for success in this class. We will have class discussion s on current topics that are happening in our country and around the world. You are expected to participate in these discussions. Understand that not everyone will agree with you and your opinion, therefore it is important to be respectful of others when these discussions occur. You can be respectful and disagree at the same time.
Materials: Students are responsible for coming to class prepared to learn. A writing utensil, the textbook, a notebook, and a folder will be needed on a daily basis. The folder should have pockets and a place for hole-punched papers. Binders are not necessary but are recommended. Papers will be hole-punched to put in folders.
Cell Phone/Electronics Policy: Cell phones have become a big distraction in the classroom. You will be required to place your cell phone in the designated area unless told differently. We will use cell phones in class for academic purposes only and you will be instructed when to keep your phone with you. If you choose not to put your phone in the designated area when class begins, your phone must be out of site. If your phone is visible, I will confiscate it and turn it into the office along with a referral. *This is also true for laptops, tablets and other electronic devices.
Classroom Expectations/Consequences:
-Students should come to class prepared with all materials. I will not be lending writing utensils.
-Students need to be on time. You will be given a detention on the 4th tardy. Each additional one will be a referral.
-Any inappropriate language will result in a referral.
-Student participation is extremely important, therefore students are encouraged to raise their hands and be involved in the class discussions.
-Food/soda is not permitted in class.
-Students are expected to respect the teacher, each other, and the property within the school. Disrespect will result in a referral. YOU SHOULD BE PROUD OF THE FACILITIES THAT YOU HAVE!
--Please respect the school policy on all electronic devices. (Phones, tablets and e-readers).
--Cell phones may be used in class during special circumstances when instructed by the teacher.
Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities (Learn and Serve America National Service Learning Clearinghouse).
Grading Information: Grades will be taken from homework assignments, quizzes, tests and possible individual and group projects. Grades will be based on total points. (Grading may change at teacher’s discretion.) Students and parents are encouraged to view the student’s progress through the use our schools grading program. Grades will be updated regularly. Extra credit may be available throughout the semester. Grading scale is in handbook. If you are absent, it is your responsibility to meet with me and make up your work.
Late Policy: Each assignment is to be completed on time. If an assignment is one day late, you will receive half credit for the work turned in. If an assignment is more than one day late, you will receive a zero. You are expected to turn all work in no matter if it is late or not.
Note taking/discussion: There will be some note taking in this class and organization is an important aspect for success in this class. We will have class discussion s on current topics that are happening in our country and around the world. You are expected to participate in these discussions. Understand that not everyone will agree with you and your opinion, therefore it is important to be respectful of others when these discussions occur. You can be respectful and disagree at the same time.
Materials: Students are responsible for coming to class prepared to learn. A writing utensil, the textbook, a notebook, and a folder will be needed on a daily basis. The folder should have pockets and a place for hole-punched papers. Binders are not necessary but are recommended. Papers will be hole-punched to put in folders.
Cell Phone/Electronics Policy: Cell phones have become a big distraction in the classroom. You will be required to place your cell phone in the designated area unless told differently. We will use cell phones in class for academic purposes only and you will be instructed when to keep your phone with you. If you choose not to put your phone in the designated area when class begins, your phone must be out of site. If your phone is visible, I will confiscate it and turn it into the office along with a referral. *This is also true for laptops, tablets and other electronic devices.
Classroom Expectations/Consequences:
-Students should come to class prepared with all materials. I will not be lending writing utensils.
-Students need to be on time. You will be given a detention on the 4th tardy. Each additional one will be a referral.
-Any inappropriate language will result in a referral.
-Student participation is extremely important, therefore students are encouraged to raise their hands and be involved in the class discussions.
-Food/soda is not permitted in class.
-Students are expected to respect the teacher, each other, and the property within the school. Disrespect will result in a referral. YOU SHOULD BE PROUD OF THE FACILITIES THAT YOU HAVE!
--Please respect the school policy on all electronic devices. (Phones, tablets and e-readers).
--Cell phones may be used in class during special circumstances when instructed by the teacher.