Tuesday, August 27, 2013

Syllabus


HST 1020-01, US History for International Students (3 units)             Patricia Andrews, MA
Fall 2013—MWF 9:00 am                                                      http://USHISFall2013.blogspot.com
Cuvilly 1                                                                                                          pandrews@ndnu.edu
Course Summary
This course will survey the history of the United States from its origins to the Obama presidency. Major themes we will explore include founding principles and values, human migration and diversity, social and political conflict, territorial growth, native and natural inheritance, and the evolving role of the US in the world today.
Texts
Boyer, et. al. The Enduring Vision: A History of the American People, concise 7th edition
Andrews, Patricia. (Draft chapter: SND in the US)
Additional readings as assigned in class
Learning Outcomes
Students will…
1.     Demonstrate knowledge of the political, economic, social, natural, spiritual, intellectual and artistic experiences of the human and non-human beings which have inhabited the US over time; recognize the influence of broader global and natural forces and identify their connections to local and national developments;
2.     Understand how decisions made in the past continue to shape American society & discourse;
3.     Demonstrate familiarity with the historical literature and conflicting interpretations of the past;
4.     Weigh and interpret evidence and present a sustained argument supported by historical evidence;
5.     Demonstrate ability to effectively communicate historical knowledge / reasoning orally & in writing;
Requirements
Consistent attendance and reading are essential to college success. In-class quizzes and assignments will assess students’ preparation on a regular basis.
1)    Students will produce a minimum of 32 pages of written work. All formal papers must be submitted in MLA format. An Online Reading Journal will be kept on a weekly basis as readings are completed. This will be kept online using blogger.com. Turning papers in late is better than not turning them in at all; however, please note that late papers will be penalized.
2)    Note-taking is an essential academic skill. Students are expected to keep appropriate and effective records of what transpires during each class session.
3)    Oral communication opportunities develop confidence and skill in public speaking.  These will include informal communication in class discussions, impromptu speaking and storytelling opportunities, formal presentations and additional opportunities as assigned in class.
4)    Attendance and participation are required.
5)    Plagiarism: Don’t do it! Plagiarized work will get the failing grade it deserves.
6)    History courses require that you spend considerable time reading and writing. Please plan your study time accordingly and let me know if you are concerned about falling behind in these areas.
Note to Students with Disabilities
NDNU complies with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Students who have a disability that might affect academic performance are encouraged to confer with the instructor at the beginning of the semester and to contact Dr. Crane in the Program for Academic Support & Services (PASS) (650-508-3670; mcrane@ndnu.edu). To receive accommodations, students must register with the PASS office.
Evaluation
A total of 1000 points is possible, broken down into the categories below. Students are encouraged to keep track of their progress on a regular basis throughout the semester.
Exams                                     2 @ 50 points = 100          
Analytical Essay                     1 @ 100 points = 100
Attendance                       40 days @ 5 points = 200         
Online Reading Journal           1 @ 200 points = 200
Participation                       40 days @ 5 points = 200         
Research Project                     1 @ 200 points = 200