Академический Документы
Профессиональный Документы
Культура Документы
History 8
Ms. Prepster
E-mail: Melissa.Prepster@austinisd.org
Phone: 841-8717
Website: http://goo.gl/n9x8n0
The Course: This course will cover Unites States History from the Colonial Period through
Reconstruction. We will study the American Revolution, the early republic and the Civil War. We will also
spend some time on the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Students will prepare for the 8th grade Social
Studies STAAR at the end of the year.
Student Expectations: I expect that students always put forth their best effort. I expect quality work at
all times. Students should be on time, bring their materials and participate in class. They should follow all
school rules and complete all tasks and assignments. I expect that if students are having difficulties or
concerns about the class that they ask me for help. I expect that students use time in class productively. I
will not tolerate rudeness, ridiculing or aggressive behaviors. Each activity that we do in class will have
designated expectations and guidelines. Minor insubordination and other infractions will be handled with
warnings and conferences before escalating to parent contact and office referrals.
I have high expectations for this class. Students should adopt a growth mindset, rather than a set one.
This means that students should understand that success in a class is the product of hard work. When
students are challenged I expect them to look upon that as a learning experience. We learn best from our
mistakes. We will be talking more about this philosophy in class.
Blended Learning Class: This course will use a blended model of instruction. Rather than receiving
lectures of content material during class time, students will use technology as well as traditional models
(text, handouts) to take notes and to be exposed to the content either at home or in a lab setting. We will
use our face-to-face time for activities, discussion and re-teaching. Students will be expected to follow
directions to learn techniques that help them best self-direct and manage their learning. More
information about how this all will work will be explained, demonstrated and sent home in the coming
weeks. If students do not have access to the Internet, either at home or on a phone, they
should let me know as soon as possible.
Procedures: All assignments and homework are noted on the white board at the front of the room.
Each day, students will be directed to copy what is due in their planners.
Upon entering class, students should check the screen and follow the directions about materials and
activities for the day. Students will start class with a four-minute warm-up period. Directions for the four
minutes will be dispalyed on the screen. Students are expected to begin the warm-up as soon as the bell
rings. Students who have been absent are responsible for checking the makeup work crate located at the
back of the room and if necessary, talking with me about what they have missed. Even if students are
absent, they are expected to check the website to see how to complete/ make-up class activities.
Technology: We will use technology on a regular basis in my class. Because Gorzycki is a Bring Your
Own Device campus, students may have (but are not required to bring) their own personal electrionic
devices (iPads, iTouch, smart phone, tablet, e-reader). Students are only to use these devices as
instructed and when instructed. Please talk with your student about their data plan. If they are on a
limited data plan, please make sure they know how to connect to the AISD wireless network with their
device (the network is called AISD-GUEST).