<< Back to Curriculum | World Geography/Social Studies

Instructor: Jennifer Weintraub

In World Geography this year, we will be using the Geography Alive! program. These hands-on lessons will challenge the students to use the tools of geography to view analyze and understand the world around them. We also will be incorporating many cooperative learning techniques into these lessons. This team approach to learning not only increases content learning but teaches the social skills that are necessary in all aspects of life.

The students begin by developing their map-reading skill and then using these skills in a Mapping Lab for each of the world's seven regions. Each region will be introduced in this Mapping Lab and then the students will focus on different geographic issues in greater depth. Application of issues in a broader global content will be explored using case studies and extended lessons through "Global Connections"

Another important part of Social Studies/World Geography is current events. Approximately once per month, students will receive the NY Times UpFront and will investigate some issues that are affecting our world today.

Evaluation:
Students will be graded using a point system for determining grades. Each assignment, project, test, or homework assignment has a certain number of points possible. A test or project may be worth 100 points while quiz or homework assignment may be worth 20 points. To determine a student’s individual grade, divide the number of points earned by possible number of points in a 9-week period. That percentage will be assigned a letter grade using the following scale:

90-100	A
80-89	B
70-79	C
60-69	D
0-59	F

Extra Credit:
Some assignments and evaluations may have extra credit components built into them. Students are encouraged to attempt all extra credit offered. Longer assignments and projects will be assessed with rubrics that will specify how to exceed the standards and earn full and/or extra points. I will not assign additional extra credit just to pull up a grade or make-up for missed work during the grading period.

Make Up Work:
A make-up work folder is located in my room. The folder will contain copies of assignments for students who were absent on the day the work was assigned. It is the responsibility of each student to ask for make-up work after an absence.

Late Work:
Late work will be accepted only one day late and points will be deducted for late work. No late work will exceed the standards according to rubrics. If a student is absent the day work is due, it is the student’s responsibility to turn it in upon returning to school. I will not ask them for this work.