Sixth Grade Civics

2006-2007

Mr. Wells -- B206

Textbook

Civics: Participating in Government by J. Davis and P.M. Fernlund

Course Description

This course emphasizes the study of the United States Constitution and three branches of government.  It explores these branches with primary source materials as a n integral part of the study.  The student has the opportunity to acquire first-hand knowledge of the political process by working in individually chosen political campaigns and experiencing the election process.  The interdisciplinary nature of history and civics is demonstrated by the preparation of a project for History Day Competition.

Why teach Civics?

• To awaken the students' interest in civic affairs
• To use debate and discussion to emphasize principals of democracy
• To convince students of the power of the individual
• To help students recognize their community identity

Class Calendar

OKCPS academic standards are found on the district and CSAS home page.  These standards will be reflected in daily and weekly lesson plans.

Academic Expectations and Grading Procedures

Students are expected to:

1. Come to class daily with a positive attitude, prepared to participate in all classroom lessons and activities designed by the teacher, volunteers, and fellow students.
2. Complete and submit all daily work and weekly homework assignments in a timely manner.
3. Prepare for and master all quizzes and tests with a minimum score of 70%.

Classroom Rules / Assertive Discipline Plan

As a teacher, I am committed to working together as a team with students and parents to develop the kind of behavior in students that will prepare them to be productive and learn self-discipline.  Together, we can establish the best teaching and learning environment possible for the teacher and students.

Behavior Rules

1. Be in your assigned seat and ready to work when the tardy bell finishes its ring.
2. Keep hands, feet, books, objects, and negative comments to yourself.
3. Speak courteously to your teacher and fellow students.
4. Follow the teacher's directions.
5. Bring only those items to class which are essential to the education process.

Positive Consequences

1. Letter of commendation to student/parent of improved/improving behavior.
2. Daily praise and recognition (verbal and written).

Intolerable Behavior

1. Fighting, vandalism, and inappropriate language
2. Repeated failure to cooperate with teacher's behavior rules
3. Possession of a weapon or dangerous substance
4. Sexual misconduct
5. Threatening a school district employee or volunteer
6. Gang-related behavior
7. Refusal to identify self to a school district employee or volunteer
8. Use or supply of any controlled substance or intoxicant
9. Serious violation of any rule or policy of Oklahoma City Public Schools (as listed in student handbook)

Misbehavior Consequences

1. Private conference with student to discuss problem and expected classroom behavior
2. Teacher Contact with parent by telephone, letter, etc. to discuss the problem and need for parent intervention
3. After school detention (1day): contact parent by phone, conference, or sadow discipline
4. Referral to administrator

Homework

In addition to written and oral reports, there will be short daily assignments, as well as weekly reading and written assignments.  The weekly assignments will be assigned at the beginning of the week and will be due at the end of the week; they are based on the reading content of the textbook.  It is important that students complete the out-of-class reading and written assignments so that class participation is enhanced.

Grading Procedures

Students' grades will come from daily assignments, homework, class participation, notebooks/portfolios, nine weeks and semester tests, and projects.  Students will often have bonus assignments.  All work during excused absences will follow the school policy.  All unexcused absences will be handled according to the attendance policy of Classen SAS.

Teacher Contact Information

Telephone Number:      787-9190

Email address:                Gotham4@cox.net

List of Materials Needed

A 1" three-ring notebook, notebook paper, blue or black ink pens, pencils, one box of Kleenex, glue stick, hole punch, ruler, planner 3" x 5" note cards.