Course Outline for

APS and Economics

Mr. Swanson, Room D-1

 

Welcome to American Political Systems and Economics!  I’m looking forward to this opportunity to explore our national and local governments, as well history.  I take an approach to teaching that encourages each student to be an active participant in the educational process.  This approach may at times put you in situations that you have not encountered previously during your educational career. With that thought in mind, it is extremely important that you understand that I expect the following:

¨      Writing that demonstrates clarity of thought and maturity of style

¨      An understanding of the appropriate behavior for the situation

¨      The ability to effectively address a variety of audiences

¨      The desire and discipline to use class time efficiently

¨      The flexibility to handle a wide range of work situations and a willingness to make your best individual effort in every activity and situation

¨      The capacity to work in cooperation with a variety of people


Units of Study Include:

Ø      Origins of American Democracy, the Legislative Branch, and the Executive Branch

Ø      The Judicial Branch and the Rights of Citizens

Ø      Participation in Government and State and Local Government

Ø      Political Systems and Public Policy

Ø      Economic Systems and the History of Economic Thought

Ø      The U.S. Economy and its Role in the Global Economy

Ø      The Role of Government & Labor in Economics

 

Homework

Homework, including long-term assignments, is solely the responsibility of the student. Late work is not accepted; some assignments will not be accepted late even in cases of absence. Students are expected to take notes on each reading assignment, and to keep all lecture and reading notes through the year.

If you are unsure of the homework assignments please check the class web page at https://www.angelfire.com/retro/clu89/govt.htm

This site will extremely helpful to you throughout your time in this class.

 

Textbook and Other Materials

Each student is responsible for covering and caring for their textbooks. Lost or damaged books must be replaced or paid for by the student. You should keep your copy of the text at home in a place where you can access them in a speedy fashion, because nightly reading assignments will be critical to your success in this class. There will be 5-6 occasions over the course of the year when you will be expected to bring your text to school.

 

Grading Policy

All grades will be computed on a points earned out of points possible basis. As the importance of an assignment increases, so does the assignment's point value. Missing assignments will be counted as zero points. The student's total points earned are divided by the total points possible to determine their percentage. The following scale is used to determine each student's grade:

Letter Grade

Percentage

Letter Grade

Percentage

A

92.5-100.0%

C

72.5-77.4%

A-

90.0-92.4%

C-

70.0-72.4%

B+

87.5-89.9%

D+

67.5-69.9%

B

82.5-87.4%

D

62.5-67.4%

B-

80.0-82.4%

D-

60.0-62.4%

C+

77.5-79.9%

F

0.0-59.9%

 

Students have one week to make up tests or quizzes that they missed because of an excused absence. No make up tests will be given to students who had an unexcused absence on the day of the test or quiz. The student is entirely responsible for scheduling the make up test with the teacher. Any test or quiz not made up after one week will be recorded as a zero. Student grades will be posted on my teacherweb site (by student ID number) at least once every two weeks. It is the responsibility of the student to be aware of their academic standing and bring any questions they have about their grade to the attention of the teacher.

Academic Honesty

Any student involved in dishonesty on any work, from homework to projects to tests and quizzes, will receive zero credit for the assignment in question. Repeat offenders may be subject to a referral to the Assistant Principal, suspension from class, and/or a parent/teacher conference.

Attendance Policy

The school tardy and absence policies will be strictly enforced.  Additionally, students wishing to use the restroom must leave their cell phone with me when they do so.  Students without cell phones must provide written communication to me from their parents to that effect.

 

Communication

I am happy to provide answers and clarification for all of my students and their parents.  I can be contacted in the following ways:

Voicemail: (805) 495-7491 x1301

e-mail: kristerswanson@conejo.k12.ca.us