Curriculum

Course Title: 8th Grade United States Social Studies

Teacher: Mr. Buttiglieri

Mission Statement: Our mission at the Julia Landon College Preparatory and Leadership Development School is to create college bound students with a deep commitment to public service and a true understanding of their leadership skills within the global community.

Course Overview: Throughout the year we will be enhancing and developing critical thinking, cin cepts and knowledge of United States History that are vital to the 21st century student. I will utilize a variety of text and assist my students in constructing meaning and interpreting information. In addition, we will focus on reading and writing processes effectively to communicate ideas through a variety of communication venues. We will explore the nature and power of social studies that shapes reactions, perceptions, and beliefs of the world around us from a United States Historical perspective.

Course Outline: I plan to cover the learning schedule in the prescribed time with supplemental assignments to enrich the student experience to meet the expectations of a magnet school curriculum.

Student Evaluation: A variety of assessments will be utilized to asses every student’s mastery of the standards. Included in the grading process are: homework, class work, projects, mini assessments, FCAT practice materials, grammar exercises, common assignments, quarterly exams, journal writings, and class participation. I will ensure every student is provided the necessary skill level to move their mastery in a positive direction. If you feel there is something I need to know about your child that will assist me in creating a deeper understanding of the specific needs of your child, please contact me.

Educational Materials: Textbook, FCAT Preparation Workbook, newspapers, various periodicals, a variety of supplemental materials, and workbooks.

Homework/late Work Policy: The only week that later work will be accepted is on the 8th week of every 9 week reporting cycle. All late work will be given a deduction depending on the quality of the work. Each justified late assignment will be graded on a sliding scale and can never earn better than a B.

Make-Up Work Policy: I will support the Duval County Public School System Policy that indicates each child will receive the same number of days to turn in his/her work as they were absent. If they were absent one day that gives them one day to get it to me.

Grade Recovery: Students are required to attempt recovery of any grade that is D or F. Students will report to Compass Odyssey to master the skills necessary to earn a posing grade and will not earn more than a C.

Parent/Teacher Conferences: Please contact Ms. Cameron in the guidance office to arrange a parent conference. We will meet as a team, which means you will have an opportunity to meet all of your child’s core subject teachers at one meeting. Please plan a day that you can schedule your appointment between 12:45-1:00 or1:15 – 1:30.

Tutoring Schedule: I currently do not have a schedule for tutoring. Tutoring will be provided through after school programs, Team Up, on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If the program does not meet the specific needs of your child, please contact me for further assistance regarding your child.

Grading Scale: Students will be evaluated in accordance with the standard Duval County Public School’s grading scale.

Progress Reports: They will be sent out every quarter at mid-term of every reporting period. Students receiving a grade of “D” or “F” on a progress report will be required to return the progress report signed by the parent/guardian within two days.

Other information: I will keep you informed of upcoming events, field trips, projects, and assignments through my blog. I look forward to your postings!