Survey of U.S. History since 1865

Course Details

Course Number: 1233  Section Number: 204 and 2H1 (honors)

Spring 2011

Location: Prothro-Yeager Hall

Classroom Number: 103 (Sec.204) & 205 (2H1)

Days & Times:

Section 204:  TR 11 AM

 

Section 2H1:  MWF 11 AM

Course Attachments

Textbooks
MSU Faculty Member
Dr. Everett W. Kindig   
view Profile »

Course Objectives

Relating history's events ("Who, what and when") to causes and consequences, identifying historical trends, & improving one's skill in evaluating them critically.  This includes a better understanding of intellectual/cultural trends (literature, art, etc.) as well as political evolution.  An intepretative approach is a major object--concepts & ideas, influences of famous figures on events, etc.


Course Expectations

Attend class on a regular basis (modest bonus points for those who do), and read two required textbooks:  Robert A. Divine, et al, The American Story, Vol. 2, and a biography of President Harry S. Truman.  Finally, it is required that a student take the 4 tests (2 readings quizzes, a midterm, and a final).  No book reports or oral exams.


Grading Standards

Tests include some multiple choice (2 points credit for each correct answer), and the midterm and Final--whhich also include written essays (choices given).  The quizzes may include very short paragraphs based on the reading as well (again, choice given on all written answers).  Written material is graded on accuracy, a grasp of the question, definition of the central problem and use of examples.  All questions, multiple choice and written, are assigned a certain number of possible points.  Points produce a grade based on a 90%, 80%, etc. scale, with some minor curving possible.  At end of semester, student points are compiled, then compared with a grade scale comprised of the total of all lowest "As," lowest "Bs," etc.--which includes any curving.  At the end the bonus points (if any) are added in.  The result equals the grade for the course.

In honors course (2H1) the same procedure is used, but additional points are awarded those who participated well in the discussions which occur each week.  


Final Exam5/7/2011  10:30 AM

Submission Format Policy

All tests must be taken on the day announced in advance.  One makeup per student is allowed.  Tests not taken are awarded a "0".



Note: You may not submit a paper for a grade in this class that already has been (or will be) submitted for a grade in another course, unless you obtain the explicit written permission of me and the other instructor involved in advance.

Late Paper Policy

No paper for course, so no such policy--with exception that all students are permitted one makeup exam.


Plagiarism Policy Plagiarism is the use of someone else's thoughts, words, ideas, or lines of argument in your own work without appropriate documentation (a parenthetical citation at the end and a listing in "Works Cited")-whether you use that material in a quote, paraphrase, or summary. It is a theft of intellectual property and will not be tolerated, whether intentional or not.

Student Honor Creed

As an MSU Student, I pledge not to lie, cheat, steal, or help anyone else do so."

As students at MSU, we recognize that any great society must be composed of empowered, responsible citizens. We also recognize universities play an important role in helping mold these responsible citizens. We believe students themselves play an important part in developing responsible citizenship by maintaining a community where integrity and honorable character are the norm, not the exception. Thus, We, the Students of Midwestern State University, resolve to uphold the honor of the University by affirming our commitment to complete academic honesty. We resolve not only to be honest but also to hold our peers accountable for complete honesty in all university matters. We consider it dishonest to ask for, give, or receive help in examinations or quizzes, to use any unauthorized material in examinations, or to present, as one's own, work or ideas which are not entirely one's own. We recognize that any instructor has the right to expect that all student work is honest, original work. We accept and acknowledge that responsibility for lying, cheating, stealing, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty fundamentally rests within each individual student. We expect of ourselves academic integrity, personal professionalism, and ethical character. We appreciate steps taken by University officials to protect the honor of the University against any who would disgrace the MSU student body by violating the spirit of this creed. Written and adopted by the 2002-2003 MSU Student Senate.

Students with Disabilities The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Disability Support Services in Room 168 of the Clark Student Center, 397-4140.

Safe Zones Statement The professor considers this classroom to be a place where you will be treated with respect as a human being - regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, sexual orientation, political beliefs, age, or ability. Additionally, diversity of thought is appreciated and encouraged, provided you can agree to disagree. It is the professor's expectation that ALL students consider the classroom a safe environment.

Contacting your Instructor All instructors in the Department have voicemail in their offices and MWSU e-mail addresses. Make sure you add your instructor's phone number and e-mail address to both email and cell phone lists of contacts.

Attendance Requirements

Attendance is expected.  Missing only a few classes merits a bonus.  Missing 5 or more eliminates the bonus.  Missing 8 or 9 or more can warrant being dropped from the course--with advance warming.


Other Policies

No electronic devices (cell phones, etc.) on desk or in lap during tests,  Violating of this rule will result in the confiscation of the exam, and the assignment of a grade of "0".  During lecture, however, recording devices and laptops are permitted.


Writing Proficiency Requirement All students seeking a Bachelor's degree from Midwestern State University must satisfy a writing proficiency requirement once they've 1) passed English 1113 and English 1123 and 2) earned 60 hours. You may meet this requirement by passing either the Writing Proficiency Exam or English 2113. Please keep in mind that, once you've earned over 90 hours, you lose the opportunity to take the $25 exam and have no option but to enroll in the three-credit hour course. If you have any questions about the exam, visit the Writing Proficiency Office website at http://academics.mwsu.edu/wpr, or call 397-4131.