About our class........
8th grade U.S. History covers historical events spanning from the time of exploration to reconstruction. This is a STAAR tested grade level subject.
RULES AND PROCEDURES:
Students will follow the Vale Behavior Expectation (VBE) system. Each student has a copy of this and is required to carry it in their binder. It simply states that all students have a responsibility to comport themselves with respect for the adults who guide them and their fellow students. Students will "BE ON TIME * BE PREPARED * BE POLITE AND COURTEOUS". Following these simple rules will ensure the success and learning experience of students.
GRADES:
Grades are weighted in Social Studies. 50% for major grades such as tests and projects. 50% for Daily assignments and HW. Students will be required to complete all assignments. In the event that an assignment is not completed, the student will be required to attend morning learning center tutorials. Class assignments are completed in class. Home Work or special projects to be completed at home will not be accepted if turned in after the 5 days past the due date limit. A zero should not be an option. Every effort should be made to complete any and all assignments.
Test Re-Takes: This is for students who have failed a test. They will be allowed a re-take up to 3 days after the failed test. It can be done during morning hours before school or after school. Arrangements for a retake should be done promptly. If a test is "open note" the student will not have the option the retake the test. Retake test grade will be averaged with the original test grade
Progress Reports are issued three weeks prior to the Report Card. Grading periods are 6 weeks long. Please check the "Parent Connection" link on the NISD website to create your account. This will allow both parents and students the ability to monitor grades as they are posted.
MATERIALS:
New Textbooks this year. Students will not be issued a book. We will have a class set for use in the classroom. However, if you would like to check your own book out to keep at home, visit the VPO for this request and one will be issued to you. Students will be able to download a copy of the textbook onto their devices which will make it easier for them to access with or without wifi. They will need to use their s# 4by4 (first 4 letters of your last name and last 4 of you SS#) so make sure you know what that is.
To view Brain Pops educational videos go to http://www.brainpop.com/socialstudies/ Passwords will be issued to students. Maps 101 is a site that can also be accessed with a password.
Additional site links for extra study helps can be found as you browse through the pages of each unit.
Supply List
A 3 ring binder with subject dividers, colored pencils, pens, pencils, liquid glue or sticks, scissors. Please replenish your supplies as needed. 2 composition notebooks will also be needed and will remain in the class for designated journaling and note activities activities. Composition books can be checked out overnight as needed to study for test and other assessments.
Lesson Plans:
Lesson planning grid is posted each 6 week period and are subject to change to allow for reteach and enrichment as needed by the students. These are general plans. (found on the Home page)
Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns. I can be easily reached by e-mail.
[email protected]
[email protected] I am originally from New York City where I received a Bachelor of Arts from Fordham University. I received a Masters of Education from Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, Texas.
I am currently the Social Studies Department Coordinator at Vale Middle School.
Pre-Ap- Students enrolled in a Pre-Ap course are required to excel at a greater level of rigor than those in a regular class. This course is intended to prepare students for the HS AP courses and to prepare them for the future AP tests required to receive college credit while in HS. Go to the following site for more information: https://apstudent.collegeboard.org/apcourse/ap-world-history/answering-the-dbq