Daryl Bilandzija
7th/8th Grade Language Arts Teacher


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Class Syllabus

September 04, 2009

 

7/8th Grade English and History
Class Syllabus
Mr. Bilandzija
Odyssey Charter School 2009-10
_________________________________________________________________________
 
Class Overview
The overall purpose of English and History is to develop students’ critical thinking skills, expand historical and social awareness and improve language skills. We will apply what we learn in both English and History through a variety of writing assignments, creative projects, Socratic discussions, dramatic performances, presentations and research.
 
English Objectives
The main objective of English class is to help students read, write, listen and speak with confidence, clarity and a sense of purpose. We will focus on the following three core areas of language development:
 
1.     Reading—Students will read and analyze novels, dramas, short stories, poetry, and nonfiction. Students will develop vocabulary through the study of root words and word lists taken in context from course readings.
2.     Writing—Students will practice and produce a variety of writing including journals, creative pieces, autobiographical, expository, analytic, reflective, persuasive, compare and contrast, and research essays. Students will study and apply proper English grammar and conventions.
3.     Listening and Speaking—Students will practice effective communication through class discussions, group collaborations, academic presentations and creative performance.
History Objectives
In history, we will study the major social, cultural, and technological changes that occurred in the world in the years A.D. 500–1789. In order to better understand the universal patterns in history, we will focus on the following thematic questions:
  • Culture—What were the most influential ideas, events, art and discoveries of different cultures and what did they contribute to our world?
 
  • Economics—How did different societies deal with the production and distribution of goods and services? What is the most just economic system?
 
  • Politics—What forms of government did different cultures develop over time? Which form of government is the most just?
 
  • Environment—How does the environment determine the development of civilization? What are the differences in relationship between different cultures and the environment?
 
  • Technology—What were the most important tools and technologies developed by different cultures? How has the development of technology and tools changed the world?
 
  • Cooperation and Conflict—What are the major causes of most wars and conflicts? What factors allow humans to be more cooperative and peaceful?
 
Required Class Materials:
Students should bring the following materials to class everyday:
·         A composition notebook for English to be used for journals, notes and writing
·         A composition notebook for History to be used for notes and writing
·         A three-ring binder with dividers for handouts and reading materials
·         Blue or black pens, pencils and a sharpener
·         Colored pencils, markers and highlighters are optional
 
Assessment:
Students will be given written and oral feedback on all work, in addition to a letter grade. Grades will be earned in the following areas:
25%--Formal Writing: essays, papers, quizzes and short answer tests
25%--Composition Books: journals, notes and reflections
25%--Projects: group work, presentations and portfolios
25%--Effort: doing your best work
 
90-100%=A
80-89%=B
70-79%=C
60-69%=D
Less than 60% = F 
 
Late Work and Email Policy:
Unless you are sick or have a family excuse, late work is not acceptable for any reason and will receive zero credit. Students are allowed to revise any written assignment as many times as they please, only if they turn the assignment in on time. I do not accept work through email. It is your responsibility to print out your work and turn it in. In the event that you cannot print, simply hand-write your assignment.
 
Class Expectations and Rules:
Do your best and you will succeed. In addition to always doing your best, please be aware of the following class rules:
·         No food, drinks, candy or gum. Water only and please bring a reusable container.
·         No cell phones or ipods in class. All electronic devices must be turned off and put away at all times. If they are out in class, they will be taken away and parents will have to pick them up in the office.
·         Leave it better than you found it. Help to keep the class and campus clean and green by picking up after yourself and helping others.
 

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7th Grade, 8th Grade, Mr. Bilandzija, parents