World Geography Syllabushttp://drodriguez8.tripod.com Course DescriptionIn World Geography, students will study both physical and human geography. Physical geography focuses on the earth’s physical features, such as rivers, lakes and mountains, while human geography is the study of human activities including social customs, traditions, economic patterns, governments and environmental interaction. Not only will this course prepare students for future social studies classes such as World History and United States History, but, some of the knowledge and skill acquired will be tested on the TAKS TEST a requirement for graduation. The Content StandardsEssential Element I: The World in Spatial Terms Geography studies the relationships between people, places, and environments by mapping information about them into a spatial context. The geographically informed person knows and understands: 1. How to use maps and other geographic representations, tools, and technologies to acquire, process, and report information from a spatial perspective 2. How to use mental maps to organize information about people, places, and environments on Earth’s surface 3. How to analyze the spatial organization of people, places, and environments on Earth’s surface Essential Element II: Places and Regions The identities and lives of individuals and peoples are rooted in particular places and in those human constructs that are identified as regions. The geographically informed person knows and understands: 4. The physical and human characteristics of places 5. That people create regions to interpret Earth’s complexity 6. How culture and experience influence people’s perceptions of places and regions Essential Element III: Physical Systems Physical processes shape Earth’s surface and interact with plant and animal life to create, sustain, and modify the ecosystems. The geographically informed person knows and understands: 7. The physical processes that shape the patterns of Earth’s surface 8. The characteristics and spatial distribution of ecosystems on Earth’s surface Essential Element IV: Human Systems People are central to geography in that human activities help shape Earth’s surface, human settlements and structures are part of Earth’s surface, and humans compete for control of Earth’s surface. The geographically informed person knows and understands: 9. The characteristics, distribution, and migration of human populations on Earth’s surface 10. The characteristics, distribution, and complexity of Earth’s cultural mosaics 11. The patterns and networks of economic interdependence on Earth’s surface 12. The processes, patterns, and functions of human settlement 13. How the forces of cooperation and conflict among people influence the division and control of Earth’s surface Essential Element V: Environment and Society The physical environment is modified by human activities, largely as a consequence of the ways in which human societies value and use Earth’s natural resources, and human activities, likewise, are influenced by Earth’s physical features and processes. The geographically informed person knows and understands: 14. How human actions modify the physical environment 15. How physical systems affect human systems 16. The changes that occur in the meaning, use, distribution, and importance of resources Essential Element VI: The Uses of Geography Knowledge of geography enables people to develop an understanding of the relationships between people, places, and environments over time—that is, of Earth as it was, is, and might The geographically informed person knows and understands: 17. How to apply geography to interpret the past 18. How to apply geography to interpret the present and plan for the future CLASSROOM RULES!zAttend all classes, regularly and on time.zFollow DirectionszBeing prepared for each class with appropriate materials & assignments.zShowing courtesy and respect towards others.zBeing appropriately dressed and groomed.zWear school ID at all times POSITIVE REWARDSzVerbal Written PraisezRadiozSchool activitieszHomework CouponszIncentives Candy Treats stickers pencils, etc.DISCIPLINARY CONSEQUENCESVerbal WarningzDiscipline Progress ReportzStudent-Teacher conferencezParent/Guardian conference with teacher via phone or at schoolzParent/Guardian conference with teacher at school refer student to counselor zSEVERE OFFENSE/ ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE Course AssessmentTests 50% Midterm/Final Exam 25% Daily Work 25% Conference Period and InformationThe Teacher’s conference period is from 10:30 A.M. to 12:00 P.M. weekdays. Please schedule an appointment by e-mail at drodriguez@uisd.net or (956) 235-0736 for your convenience. Also, check the class website at http://drodriguez8.tripod.com TutoringThe teacher will be available for tutoring on Monday and Wednesday, beginning at 8:15 A.M. or by scheduling an appointment Late assignments / Failing Grades / Progress ReportsAbsolutely NO late assignments will be allowed. Ample time will be given to finish the student’s assignments as well as opportunity to submit them. (1 Week). If a student’s average falls below a 70, parents will be contacted. Progress reports will be issued at least once every three weeks, theses must be signed and returned to the teacher. Tests and Make-up TestsUsually, there will be between three to five test grades (including projects) per 9 weeks. Make-up tests will not be offered except in case of an excuse absence. It is the student’s responsibility to request such a make-up exam before a week has transpired. The key to getting a good grade on this class is to study hard on tests; a simple reading of the review will not suffice. Remember, tests represent 50% of your grade. Extra CreditOpportunity for extra credit will be given to those students that merit such reward only. Hall pass, attendance, and class attitude will be used to determine such eligibility. Course SuppliesStudents are required to bring a notebook with dividers, pens, and map coloring pencils (No Crayons please). Also a blank CD-R will be extremely helpful (electronic textbook and assignments) |