8th Grade U.S. HISTORY
CLASS RULES
Teacher: Maynard Robinson
Textbook: America, History of Our Nation
Prerequisites: World History
1. COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is an overview of the history of the United States from Independence from 1789 through 1914. This course will include studies in the following
areas: Birth of a Nation, Era of Thomas Jefferson, Louisiana Purchase, War of 1812, Age of Andrew Jackson, Industrial Revolution, Age of Reform, Westward Expansion, Manifest Destiny, War with Mexico, Civil War, Reconstructions, Transforming the West, Industry and Urban Growth, Political Reform Movement, Women Suffrage, Spanish American War, and World War I.
2. ATTENDANCE & TARDIES: Students are required to attend all classes unless excused.Students will receive a grade of zero on all assignments and tests for any “unexcused” absence.When the bell rings it is expected that all students should be in their desks ready to work and previously have taken the opportunity to use the restroom, get water, visit, sharpen their pencil, etc. Bottom line is that each student is expected to “ assume full responsibility” for their actions. It ismy prerogative to give a zero on tests or assignments to those students who are “habitually” absent or tardy. (Sometimes, it seems that the Pescadero flu only comes on test days?)
NOTE: All studies show that failure and low grades can be traced usually to high absences.
3. MATERIAL: Students are expected to show up in the class with their textbooks (with bookcovers), homework, paper, and pen….and ready to go. A notebook is required for this class. In addition all students are to keep a “mandatory calendar” for their daily assignments. This calendar will be checked periodically and graded. It is suggested that you have a “study buddy” whom you can call to clarify or discuss the assignments. All misspelled words will be tracked in mandatory graded “spelling folders” which will be explained after the 1st test.
4. HOMEWORK & TESTING: This is the Achilles Heel of most students!!! Late work will
only be accepted if you have an “excused absence”. There will be no credit for homework left
at home, in your locker, or in your car. Please do not ask to borrow a book if you failed to bring
your book to class. Work assigned before your absence is due on the day of your return. In
accordance with the handbook, each student has the number of days absent to complete the
missed work and take tests. (For example, 2 days of absence allows you 2 days to complete the
missing work). However, the teacher reserves various and appropriate stimulating options for
those few students who have established a pattern of being sick on important days. These
students will be taking the test their 1st day of return. Each student may use one “homework
pass” per semester. If you forget to use it, you lose it. Expect a quiz on all reading
assignments.
- 5. CLASS PARTICIPATION: Students should take the personal effort to enhance their
learning process by taking an active part in class. This is shown by reading their assignments,
answering questions, and engaging in discussion. Students are expected to take notes and have their textbook out for a reference. Those students who show up unprepared will be penalized. Please
don’t be shy or you will be called upon more often. All mannerly comments are welcome. Shy
smart people may not do well in the real world. Communications is the key!
- 6. OFFICE HOURS/AVAILABILTY: I am available before school, during my prep period, and after school. Please do not attempt to carry on business in the halls during breaks or at lunch, as I have monitoring duties. Parents and students are free to contact me via email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) or phone (831) 425-1901.
- 7. CLASS BEHAVIOR
- Cheating in any form will not be tolerated. Expect a zero for “all” participants, a referral, and
a call home. In addition any student caught cheating will have all their work “red flagged” and it
will be given much more scrutiny in the future.
- Raise your hand if you care to speak, answer a question, or make a comment.
- Eating and drinking a beverage is not allowed in the classroom. (water is allowed)
- Please do not groom yourself, chew gum, or engage in childish behavior.
- Do not put others down to amuse the class or yourself. Do not make improper statements
concerning drugs, alcohol, genders, race, or sex. Cursing will not be tolerated and expect detention
or suspension, as it has no place in school. You will be asked to leave class.
- Once in your seat, expect to stay there. Do not leave your seat without permission.
Raise your hand if there is a problem, request, or something that you would like to point out.
- There will be no bathroom breaks unless medical or “extreme” emergency.
- Due to my Southern heritage it is requested that students not disrupt or try to entertain the class
with loud yawns, belching or other gaseous behavior. This boorish behavior is not appropriate at school. It may be funny with your friends, but it is not funny in class.
- If you are caught chewing gum you will be asked to vacuum the class or library area.
- Please do not come in the last few weeks of school and expect to “cut a deal” in order for you
to pass or graduate. If you wish to have a discussion about what you could do to improve then
have a “get well” plan to tell me what you will attempt to do. Do not expect grading and passing requirements to be lowered if you are not putting in the work required. Likewise, please do not approach me with “ a promise” to do better if you can play sports.
A 68%, 78%, and 88% stay where they are as final grades and are not raised to make you happy.
8. GRADING: A computer printout will be provided every two weeks to give you a status of your progress. Please check to see if there are any mistakes or corrections that need to be made. Anytime parents and students may request a grade printout with a one day notice. Grading parameters are as follows:
TESTS & QUIZZES 70%
HOMEWORK & PROJECTS 10%
PARTICIPATION 10%
FINAL EXAM 10%
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A = 90 - 100
B = 80 - 89
C = 70 - 79
D = 60 - 69
F = 0 - 59
OF NOTE: Students who have maintained an A average at the end of each quarter or semester are exempt from the Final Exam!!!
Remember 2 quarters average to 1 semester. However, 2 semesters do NOT average for the final
grade. Each semester is an independent grade that stands alone. Thus if a student fails 1 of the 2 semesters then the failed semester must be repeated.