Syllabus

World History (3 units)
Spring 2012—MWF 9:00 am
http://WHSpring2012.blogspot.com
Cuvilly 1
Patricia Andrews, MA
pandrews@ndnu.edu

Course Summary
This course will survey the history of world civilizations from approximately 1500 to the present using primary source readings and emphasizing cultural and developmental themes.

Texts
Strayer, Robert, Ways of the World
Additional readings as assigned in class

Learning Outcomes
Students will…
1. Demonstrate knowledge of the political, economic, social, religious, intellectual, and artistic experiences of peoples around the world over time; recognize the influence of global forces and identify their connections to local and national developments;
2. Understand how decisions made in the past continue to shape society and political 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 the ability to effectively communicate historical knowledge and reasoning orally and in writing;
6. Use the tools of social science research in formulating a research topic, collecting and analyzing evidence, and presenting results.

Requirements
Consistent attendance and reading are essential to college success. In-class quizzes and assignments will assess students’ preparation on a regular basis and will take the place of midterm and final exams.
1) Students will produce a minimum of 32 pages of written work. All formal papers must be submitted in MLA format. A class blog/Reading Journal will be kept on a weekly basis as readings are completed. This will be kept online using blogger.com. Late papers will be penalized in the amount of one full letter grade per week.
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) History courses require considerable time spent reading and writing. Please plan your study time accordingly and let me know if you are concerned about falling behind in either of these areas.

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 @ 100 points = 200
Analytical Essay 1 @ 100 points = 100
Class Blog/Reading Journal 1 @ 200 points = 200
Research Project 1 @ 172 points = 172
Attendance 41 days @ 4 points = 164
Participation 41 days @ 4 points = 164