Honors Civics and Economics Course Syllabus



Honors Civics and Economics Course Syllabus

[pic][pic][pic]Currituck County High School

Joanna Blume

Telephone: (252) 453-0014, ext 3032

E-mail: jblume@currituck.k12.nc.us

Web page:

Welcome!

Honors Civics & Economics covers the course material in greater complexity, acceleration and/or pacing, and reflects a differentiated curriculum. Honors students should learn to express and defend their ideas while learning to accept constructive criticism with maturity.

In order to excel, students need self-motivation and a strong work ethic. Students should expect reading homework each night and are expected to come to class prepared to discuss the reading in detail. Class time is devoted to student-generated discussion of the reading, not teacher “explanation” of the text.

I will incorporate opportunities for students to become reflective thinkers who possess the potential to put their learning and accomplishments into useful practice. I also hope to explore areas of interest within the designated course of study that have real-life meaning.

Course Description:

The purpose of studying Civics and Economics is so that the student will be able to learn the skills and knowledge that are necessary to become a better-rounded citizen. Students will be encouraged to think critically, to make decisions and to reason clearly. They will be expected to locate and use varied sources of information. Information obtained in this class is extremely important for any United States History Course.

Course Requirements:

Chromebook: Each student is expected to bring their Chromebook to class fully charged and ready to use. In the event that a student does not bring their Chromebook, an alternative assignment will not be provided.

Binder: Each student will need a 2 inch binder with dividers to keep all notes and important papers properly organized. Textbooks and other outside reading materials will be used. Those who fail to read, take notes and keep organized will struggle in the class.

Textbooks: All students will be given a Civics textbook. Please return it in the condition that it was received.

Homework: Homework will be assigned on a regular basis. It must be turned in to me on the day that it is due. If homework is assigned, please be prepared for a possible quiz or assignment on the same information on the following day. Please check my web page for homework assignments. Any student who fails to complete homework will be assigned to ZAP or Tutoring.

Current Events: In addition to class work, students will be required to blog about a current event. A current event article will be issued each week. The student must post their response on the class blog each week before Friday at midnight. Each article is worth 10 points, for a possible score of 100. This grade will count as a test score. Posts made on Saturday or Sunday will receive no higher than 7 points. Comments posted after Sunday are worth no more than 5 points. Failure to post a comment will result in the assignment of ZAP or Tutoring.

Tests/Quizzes: There will be several tests and quizzes given throughout the year including a state issued final exam. Students will be required to compose responses to short answer questions on class tests and on the state issued final exam. All tests will be collected and kept by the teacher.

Grading Policy:

Tests 50%

Quizzes 30%

Daily Assignments 20%

Grading Scale:

A Superior 100-93

B Good 92-85

C Average 84-77

D Poor 76-70

F Failing 69 and below

Attendance Policy: Attendance will be taken every class period. There are no make up days for absences. Whether excused or unexcused, students are only allowed to be absent 7 days from class. Students absent beyond the 7 day count may fail the class due to attendance. Being tardy to class is unacceptable.

Course Expectations:

Classroom Expectations:

1. Strive to succeed everyday!

2. Respect yourself and the others around you.

3. Be in your seat and prepared for class when the bell rings.

4. Dismissal will be by the teacher-NOT the bell.

5. No food or drink.

6. Be sure to bring the following materials to class everyday:

- Chromebook

- Textbook

- Binder

- A writing utensil (pen or pencil)

Hall Pass Policy: Any student wishing to visit any area of the High School during class hours must have a hall pass.

School Rules: All School Rules will be enforced in the classroom. Failure to comply with these rules may result in an office referral.

State Rules: Civics & Economics is required of all students who wish to graduate in North Carolina. All students are encouraged to get off to a good start and stay focused. Students may not be exempt from the state’s final exam. The exam counts 20% of the student’s final grade.

Cell Phones and Other Electronic Devices: The CCHS cell phone and electronic device policy will be strictly enforced in the classroom.

Make Up Work: When a student returns from an absence, they must complete any missed assignment within five days. Tests and quizzes may be taken in tutoring or ZAP. Make up work is the student’s responsibility! Students who miss more than seven days may be denied credit for the course. For assignments please check my website at or whenever possible get work in advance of an absence.

Parent Communication: Parents can check on their child’s grade at any time using Home Base. This is an online tool that allows you to view my grade book at your convenience. Moreover, progress reports are handed out every 4½ weeks or upon request with enough notice given. These reports include missing tasks as well as the student’s current grade in the class and on each assignment. Parents may call me at (252) 453-0014 ext. 3032 between 7:45-8:00 am or 3:10-3:50 pm. Parents may also contact me for an electronic progress report at jblume@currituck.k12.nc.us to get an update.

Honor Code: All assignments are given with the understanding that each individual will complete that assignment in an honest manner. Anyone caught cheating or plagiarizing will receive an automatic grade of “0” for that particular assignment. Actions in terms of discipline will be assessed individually. Group Work means just that – everyone in the group contributes, and all group members are responsible for understanding the information.

Tutoring: Any student who has a class average below 77 must attend tutoring.

Course Overview

Course Structure: Each unit usually consists of several chapters. Each unit is tested at least once. For unit details and frameworks go to

Course Outline:

Weeks 1-2: Foundations of American Citizenship (Unit One, Chapters 1-3.2)

Weeks 3-4: The US Constitution (Unit Two, Chapters 3.3-5)

Weeks 5-6: Our National Government (Unit Three, Chapters 6-8)

Week 7-8: Influencing Government (Unit Four, chapters 9-11)

Weeks 9-10: State & Local Governments (Unit Five, chapters 12-14)

Weeks 11-12: The Criminal Justice System (Unit Six, chapters 15-17)

Week 13: Personal Financial Literacy (Online Modules)

Weeks 14-16: Economics (Unit Eight, chapters 18-27)

Weeks 17-18: Exam review & Administer State Exam

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Syllabus Agreement

Honors Civics and Economics

Joanna Blume

I understand that effort, proper organization and good study habits will lead to success in this class.

I, the undersigned, have read and fully understand the syllabus and the expectations that will be required of me in this class.

Student’s Name (Printed):_______________________________________________

Student’s Signature: ____________________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Name (Printed):_________________________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______________________________________________

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