Everything you wanted to know about Social Studies class but were afraid to ask!

Hello Parents,
It's great to be back. Many of you are the parents of 8th graders and already know what to expect from my class. These expectations have not changed: papers, projects, journals, and quizzes are on the immediate horizon. Don't panic. The rest of you are the parents of 7th graders, or perhaps have become lost. Here's how my class works:

Students are accountable for three assignments per quarter, notwithstanding my dreaded (actually quite manageable) quizzes, which appear every other Friday. These assignments are:

1. A research paper. This will pertain thematically to class units, but also will allow students to conduct research above and beyond the curriculum proper if they desire. 2 pages, double spaced, 12 pt font. Don't plagiarize: it's extremely embarrassing and you will always be caught.

2. A visual project. Students will have the opportunity to construct a visual representation of their research on a topic of choice. They will be graded of creativity, evidence of time/effort, and their knowledge of the subject matter they present.

3. A research journal. This will consist of daily notes, vocabulary, and class activities. In addition, every Friday, students will write a 1/2 page entry pertaining to class discussions.

Each of these assignments is worth 20% of a student's grade for the quarter, as is an average of Friday quiz scores and class participation, resulting in five total grades in the grade book. Any zeros, then, will result in the loss of two letter grades.

Behavior: please refer to the student handbook if you have any questions about behavioral expectations. Pay close attention to the dress code, gum, electronics, and misconduct. If I see a phone, you will be picking it up in Mr. Dye's office.

Supply list:
- A Mead Composition Book.
- Pens, I don't believe in pencils
- 1 Ream of Copy Paper.

And that's it.

My class can be seen as a general overview of the social and behavioral sciences. Students will attain a new understanding of human behavior through history, government, economics, and geography. I have no doubts that students will be engaged by our class discussions, field trips, and hands-on projects. If you have any further questions, feel free to email me at algreengaard@lpatucson.org.