Ms. Hamer’s 7th grade Civics Class 2014-2015
Primary Objective: The main goal of this class is to promote the growth and development of well-rounded and informed U.S. Citizens. We will explore and become proficient in the following concepts: CITIZENSHIP; PUBLIC OPINION AND GOVERNMENT; ELECTIONS/POLITICAL PARTIES; FOUNDATIONS OF AMERICAN GOVERNMENT; U.S. CONSTITUTION CREATION, STRUCTURE, FUNCTION and AMENDMENTS; BRANCHES AND LEVELS OF GOVERNMENT; THE LEGAL SYSTEM; FORMS/SYSTEMS OF GOVERNMENT; INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS.
Dear Students and Parents,
I want you to understand two main things: first, this class is going to be AWESOME! The second thing I need you to understand is that this class is REALLY IMPORTANT! This isn’t just a grade on your report card or even just some required 7th grade social studies class. It is loaded with information that affects you now and will continually impact your lives as American citizens! Because this course is so important, there will be a statewide End-of–Course Assessment (EOCA) that you will be required to take this Spring to make sure you have adequately learned the material. This is the ONLY required middle school class that has a mandatory EOC Assessment, and it will count as 30% of your final grade in Civics. Take a moment to read over that bold print again, and let it sink in….
OK, now remember the first thing that I mentioned: This class is going to be awesome! We are going to talk and play games. We will use technology and work in groups a lot! We will do skits and draw and make things. We might even sing and dance! Of course, we will have to read, write, and take tests too, but I intend for us to do a lot of learning in fun ways that will help you remember.
This is what I will need from you EVERY DAY:
1. Adhere to our school policy of R.A.Y.S. -- Respectful, Accountable, Your best effort, and Safety.
2. Bring materials to class. (Pen or pencil and interactive binder*) *1”binder for CIVICS where we will keep handouts, class notes, assignments and all important Civics information.
3. Your DELIBERATE ATTENTION and ACTIVE PARTICIPATION for 55 minutes each day. (I rarely assign homework except to prepare for tests or to complete unfinished or missed class assignments, so I need you to be totally engaged throughout my class time.)
This is going to be a great year! I will periodically add to my website and/or send home more detailed information on course content and how to successfully master it throughout the year.
Civic-mindedly yours,
Ms. Charlotte Hamer