MR. Karl Byrd U.S. History KO Knudson MS Room 400

Welcome to U.S. History with Mr. Byrd I have been at K.O. Knudson since I have taught both U.S. History and Geography classes as well as accelerated U.S. History. I received my B.A. from York College and an M.A. from Brooklyn College in New York City. In 2008 I received an advanced studies certification in teacher leadership from Southern Utah University. I am currently the department chairperson for social studies at K.O. Knudson

US History Syllabus United States/Nevada History 7 – 1260 I. Course Scope: This one-year course is a study of Nevada from statehood to present day and American history from the time of the American Revolution through World War II. Students explore and evaluate challenges facing the new nation and make connections between the rise of industrialization and contemporary social and economic conditions. The history of Nevada is integrated throughout the year. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This is a required course for all seventh grade students.

Teacher Expectations My course goals for all students includes: Course Goals 1. To evaluate the significant social, cultural, economic, and political changes in the United States and Nevada from the American Revolution through World War II. 2. To summarize the contributions made by diverse cultures to the United States and Nevada. 3. To assess the concepts of tolerance and respect. 4. To cite evidence supporting the development of the state of Nevada and its unique features. 5. To explain the effects of new technologies on the development of the United States and Nevada. 6. To investigate the value of responsible citizenship. 7. To apply the content literacy skills necessary to analyze historical documents, artifacts, and concepts. 8. To use information, media, and technology literacy skills necessary to research, communicate, and demonstrate critical thinking.

School Wide Discipline Policy BEHAVIOR: Progressive Discipline 1st Incident – Verbal warning 2nd Incident - Parent contact by teacher 3rd Incident – Counselor referral 4th Incident – Dean’s referral

Textbooks, Supplies and Technology The textbooks for this class are priced to replace any that are lost or damaged. 1. Discovering Our Past: A History of the United States $68.40 Classroom Textbook 2. Creating America: A History of the United States $55.00 Home Textbook 3. Nevada: A Journey of Discovery $30.00 Class & Home Textbook Each student will be issued an American History and Nevada History textbook. Students will be responsible for any lost, stolen or damage incurred to the textbook issued to them. Each student should come prepared to class with three-ring binder that has a social studies section containing paper. Writing materials should include several pencils, a couple of blue or black pens or other color for grading, and blue, green and yellow highlighters. I will issue each student a composition book that will be used to keep handouts and notes. Students are to have their charged iPad in class each day.

Grading Explanation of Student Grades: I. A = 100 – 90% II. B = 89 – 80% III. C = 79 – 70% IV. D = 69 – 60% V. F = 59 and below How and when will students be advised of their grades? I. Parents and students are urged to check Infinite Campus regularly. II. Infinite Campus will be updated live each day. III. Students will receive at least one graded assignment updated into Infinite Campus weekly. IV. Assignment grading will be completed within one week of the due date. III. Progress Reports. IV. Parent contact ( , phone, or Unsatisfactory Progress) for all students in danger of receiving a D/F for the quarter.

Teacher’s hours of availability for additional assistance: Students needing additional assistance need to make an appointment for either after school help or secure a PAWS pass per the teacher’s availability.

Grading a. Grading Policy Assessment 50% Assessments will include test, historical simulation performances, projects and research writing assignments. Classwork 40% The classwork grade will consist of the student’s daily participation by maintaining a good notebook, completion of daily assignments, readings, and oral participation in class discussions. Homework 10% Each quarter students will be responsible for completing homework assignments which are designed to enrich student understanding of historical topics, current events, and to serve as practice for in class discussion. Makeup Work Procedures - Students are held accountable for any work missed due to absence. It is the student’s responsibility to ask the teacher either before or after class/school for any work missed. Late Work Policy and Procedures - The History Department has expectations that all work should be turned in a timely manner. All work turned in, in a timely manner. All work is expected on the due date. Any work turned in within 14 days after the due date will receive a maximum score of 70%. Work turned in over 14 days late will receive a maximum score of 50%. No late work will be accepted after week 7 of the quarter.

Course Outline First Quarter 1. American Geography/History Skills 2. Colonization/American Revolution 3. Building a Nation and the United States Constitution 4. Contemporary American Issues and Civics Second Quarter 1. Westward Expansion 2. Slavery, Abolition, and the Civil War 3. Westward Movement 4. Nevada History, Contemporary American Issues and Civics. Third Quarter 1. The Industrial Revolution and the Progressive Era 2. Becoming a World Power, imperialism, and World War I 3. The 1920s 4. Nevada History, Contemporary American Issues and Civics Fourth Quarter 1. The Great Depression 2. World War II 3. The 1920s 4. Nevada History, Contemporary American Issues and Civics