American Affairs / Civics
Class Outline and Class Rules
Mr. Masters

This full year course will be an active study in American government. You will explore the creation of our government, while working toward an understanding of the forces that shaped our nation. A strong emphasis is placed on helping your prepare for your role as an involved citizen. By following current events you will learn to think critically about and begin to understand the United States’ involvement in world affairs. You will travel to Hartford Superior court to hear a case. Guest speakers will supplement your studies as well and provide you with an opportunity to discuss topics that are important to you.


I expect that you will come to class prepared with something to write with, your agenda, an organized notebook, textbook and any homework that is due. You will receive a daily preparedness grade and homework will be collected and marked. Please keep your text covered at all times. You will need to have a 3.5” floppy disk for class.

Your notebook will be checked and graded twice each quarter; it will contain class notes, handouts, homework, tests and quizzes and projects or essays. Your notebook must be divided into sections, have no loose pages, and hold all of the work for one quarter. Homework is to be turned in at the beginning of class. If you are absent from school, you will have three days from the last day you were absent to turn in missing work (refer to your student handbook for specific details).

You will be assigned several short-term projects to supplement your current work, and periodic long-term assignments that will include research and writing. These will be announced in advance and class time may be provided for their completion.

I will be available nearly every day after school for extra help.


Class Rules 1. Be on time to class (inside the room when the bell rings).
2. Inappropriate language will not be tolerated.
3. Work quietly when expected to do so.
4. Respect everyone in the classroom.

Long Term Goals 1. To expose you to the roots of American government.
2. To further your understanding of the ways that government works and affects you life.
3. To explore the constitution in greater detail and reinforce it’s importance.
4. To develop your critical thinking skills through challenge activities.
5. To help you develop an appreciation for your role and responsibility as an American citizen.

Textbook Civics, Participating in Government, Prentice Hall companion website www.phschool.com

Grading Distribution
quarter 1 mid    
quarter 1 final    
quarter 2 mid    
quarter 2 final    
quarter 3 mid    
quarter 3 final    
quarter 4 mid    
quarter 4 final    
BONUS GRADE    
(midterm and final exam grades are 20% of 2nd and 4th quarter averages.)
homework 30 %
tests/quizzes 20 %
preparedness 15 %
participation 10 %
projects 25 %
100%
  Microsoft Word document