Contemporary World Issues
Course Syllabus
6th prep
(.5 senior social studies credit, fulfills on-half of senior requirement)
CWI provides and in-depth look at United States problems considering sociological and philosophical cause and effect and their impact on government, popular opinion, International policies and alliances. Students will be required to view and read current publications and programs.
Due to the nature of this course, there is no firmly set content syllabus. The course content will include a survey of recent history and current events. Content will include a combination of local, regional, national and international issues, along with areas of interest as determined by the students and teacher.
Course Content Objectives
The student will be able to:
1. critically assess and evaluate news and news media.
2. investigate and evaluate selected local, regional, national and international contemporary events and issues along with their historical background.
3. demonstrate proficiency communicating knowledge, analysis and opinions of selected events.
4. understand the rights, privileges and responsibilities of US citizenship and residency.
5. assess political, economic, social, religious facets of current issues.
6. enhance geographic knowledge and understanding of the world.
History 2: The student applies the methods of social science investigation to investigate, compare and contrast interpretations of historical events.
Geography 3: The student observes and analyzes the interaction between people, the environment and culture.
Civics 1: The student understands and can explain the core values and principles of the US democracy as set forth in the foundational documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Civics 2: The student analyzes the purposes and organization of governments and laws.
Civics 3: The student understands the purposes and organization of international relationships and how US foreign policy is made.
Economics 1: The student understands basic economic concepts and analyzes the effect of economic systems on individuals, groups and society.
Reading 3: The student reads different materials for a variety of purposes.
Writing 1: The student writes clearly and effectively.
Writing 2: The student writes in a variety of forms for a variety of purposes.
Communication 1: The student uses listening and observation skills to gain understanding.
Communication 2: The student communicates ideas clearly and effectively.
While the text for current events varies based on the event, the student will need to be familiar with a selection of the following mainstream sources of information and news.
Local/Regional Newspapers…such as the Mukilteo Beacon,
The Herald, The Seattle Times, The Seattle Post Intelligencer.
National Newspapers and Magazines … such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Time, Newsweek, US News and World Reports.
Local and National TV and Radio … such as local, daily news on the major channels and stations, national daily news on the major networks, CNN.
National Programs … such as Dateline, 60 Minutes, Meet the Press.
Internet Sources and Websites.
Course Pattern and Grading
Instructional methods will include lecture, discussion, audio visual presentations, student presentations. The student can expect regular homework and required reading.
40% Quizzes and Tests
40% Regular homework assignments, including articles
20% Discussion and Participation
Late work, from an excused absence, will be accepted up to one week from the original due date with a 20% penalty. Late work due to an absence will be expected upon your return to class.
Discussion is a significant part of learning current issues and events. Controversy can be motivating, interesting and fun. To encourage active participation and communication during discussion, we will abide by the following ground rules:
1. The purpose of discussion is understanding, not winning.
2. Listen to and respect the opinions of others.
3. Do not interrupt.
4. Avoid side conversations.
5. Focus on ideas and facts, not personalities.
6. Avoid unsupported, emotional statements.
7. Allow the flexibility and understanding for people to change their opinions.
8. Cite sources of information.
Academic Honesty:
It is expected that you will complete your own work. Academic Dishonesty is covered in the “Exceptional Misconduct” section of the Mukilteo School District Student Rights and Responsibilities Handbook.
Cheating is defined as participation in and or planning any activity, including plagiarism, in which a student knowingly misrepresents or assists another student to misrepresent his/her actual achievement in any course. More specifically, you are dishonest and guilty of cheating when you do any of the following:
-Photocopy, fax or duplicate assignments that will be turned in as original or exchange assignments by printout, disk transfer, modem or internet and then submit as original.
-Copy someone else’s assignment and submit it as your own.
-Lend or borrow homework or classwork unless permitted by the teacher.
-Submit material written or designed by someone else without giving the author/artist name and/or source (e.g. plagiarizing or submitting work created by family, friends or tutors).
-Intentionally misgrade either your own work or another’s work.
-Take a test and receive help of any kind from others or hidden answer sheets, notes or devices. This includes copying or receiving answers from another student or giving help to another person.
-Possess examinations or answer keys.
-Alter grade records.
Responses to cheating:
First Offense
-student receives “zero” grade without chance for makeup
-discipline referral filed with administrator
-possible parent contact
Second Offense
-same as first offense
-disciplined in accordance with “Exceptional Misconduct Policy”
Third Offense
-same as above
-loss of credit in course
Attendance:
Excessive absences are covered by school policy. To perform well in and intense class it is vital that you are here all the time. It is most difficult to make up a discussion, test, or activity. Generally, makeup work is expected to be done upon a student’s return to class. In case of an extended absence, up to 5 school days will be allowed for makeup. Anything missed due to an unexcused absence will not be allowed to be made up.
Tardies are covered by school policy. Students entering class after the bell rings are considered tardy. Tardies may result in after school detention. Repeated tardiness will be referred to an administrator.