World History: Community and Conflict Syllabus 2018-2019

Thomas Huss, thomashuss@trinityes.org

Course Description:​ ​ ​Why and how do societies develop institutions to create a sense of
political, social, and economic order? Why are societies so often in a state of conflict?
Over the course of the year, students will examine selected events in world history as a
lens through which to analyze these questions.

As a course for ninth graders transitioning to the academic demands of high school,
special emphasis will be placed on helping students develop and apply learning strategies
that can be used in this and future social studies courses as well as in other disciplines.

Historical thinking skills such as chronological reasoning and the comparing and
contrasting of historical events and interpretations will also be a focal point of this
course. Students will work on developing their writing, critical reading, and research
skills.
Themes:
This course will be taught thematically, with the themes for this school year most likely to be:
1. Historiography
2. Patterns of Human Organization
3. Systems of Faith
4. Early Revolution
5. Connections Across Land and Water
6. Ideas Shape the Modern World
7. Political Revolutions
8. Industrialization
9. Colonial Identities
10. Global War and Peace
11. Globalization and Popular Culture

Goals​:
● To analyze and synthesize information and form opinions based on evidence
● To write clearly and concisely about historical situations
● To trace the development of themes in World History
● To develop research skills
● To use technology as a resource for historical information
● To develop leadership skills such as communication, conflict resolution, ethical behavior,
decision making, critical thinking, compassion, empathy and enthusiasm
Text:​ Ellis. ​World History. ​2016. ISBN 978-0-13-330702-3

Required Materials:
•Three Ring Binder (at least 2 inch) • Flash/Thumb Drive
Grade Weights: Grade Scales:
Test/Projects: 40% 94-100 = A
Class work: 35% 86-93 = B
Homework: 10% 78-85 = C
Quizzes: 15% 70-77 = D
0-69 = F
Late Work Policy:
In the event of an absence, make-up work can be obtained and completed in a timely fashion, not
to exceed each unit. Most work will be posted in Google Classroom. No work will be accepted
after end of quarter.

Classroom Expectations:
1. Be prepared! This is high school! You are responsible for coming to class on time, with
required materials and completed assignments.
2. Respect all adults, teachers, substitutes, assistants, and staff at Trinity ES. This is not only
non-negotiable; respecting adults and their authority is an indication of your own maturity.
3. Respect each other at all times. ALWAYS treat others as you would like to be treated.
4. Cheating and plagiarism will not be tolerated.
5. We will follow all Trinity policies and rules in the classroom.

Honor Code:
All assignments are expected to be your own individual and pledged work, unless you are
told otherwise. ​I have it set this way to help avoid confusion. If you ever have any questions
about an assignment, you can always ask me.

Use of Electronics:
Cell phones are not permitted in class unless they are being used for academic purposes.
Unauthorized cell phone usage could result in the taking of the phone for the class or day.

Computers are required for this course. Students are expected to use them appropriately and
remain focused and on task.

Attendance:
Regular school attendance is expected and required for success. Students with 7 or more absences
per semester will be placed under the review process.