Class Syllabus

Sixth Grade - Social Studies Syllabus

Lakeview Middle School

Mr. Matt McGinty

CONTACT INFORMATION

I strongly encourage parents to get in touch with me regarding the progress of your child and/or any questions or concerns you might have. You may also check our class blog regularly to monitor what you child is learning and get additional information about this course.   

• Work Phone:  (831) 728-6455  Ext. 5945

• E-Mail:  matthew_mcginty@pvusd.net

• Class Blog (Website):  6thsocialstudiesmcginty.blogspot.com   

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to 6th grade Social Studies.  In this course students will be primarily focused on the study of the world’s first peoples and its earliest ancient civilizations. This is a rigorous class that will require dedication and hard work in class and at home. I have very high expectations for each of my students and I am willing to partner with students and families to help promote academic success for all.

GRADING POLICY

Students’ overall grade percentages are based on their performance in the following weighted categories:

• Assessments (Tests, Quizzes, Projects and Performance Tasks):  65%

• Assignments (Classwork and Homework):  35%

The following grading scale is used to determine a student’s final letter grade for the quarter:  

• 90 – 100% = A

• 80 – 89% = B

• 70 – 79% = C

• 60 – 69% = D

• 59% or Below = F

Students are also able to check their grades regularly online using School Loop, Google Classroom, as well as on posted class grade reports. Students should always know what their current grade is and what assignments are missing, if any. Student progress grade reports will also be sent home periodically.

ATTENDANCE / LATE WORK

Regular attendance is essential in this class. In the event of an excused absence, students will be allowed a few extra days to make up missing assignments in order to receive full credit. It is the responsibility of the student to notify the teacher that he/she has been absent and to pick up or ask about missing assignments.

Students who are absent may also learn more about the day’s agenda on the class blog. You can access the class blog by visiting the website: 6thsocialstudiesmcginty.blogspot.com. Students can also access their digital assignments, keep track of due dates, and get additional information about the class in Google Classroom.  

All assignments must be turned in on time in order to receive full credit. However, a student may turn in late assignments at any time within a grading quarter in order to receive close to full credit.  Students who regularly do not turn in assignments, however, may have consequences, including the possibility of a phone call home and/or a teacher detention.

REQUIRED CLASSROOM MATERIALS

The following materials must be with the student each class day:

• Chromebook (fully charged) and headphones (or earbuds)

• Sharpened Pencils (at least 3)
• HIghlighters (of at least two different colors)

• Binder with paper and dividers for each class and/or folders for each class

PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITY

The role of parents in supporting their child’s education is so important. Sincere thanks to all parents, guardians, and family members for all you do in helping to ensure your child’s success at school. Here is a suggested list of specific things you can do to support your child in my class:

• Remind students to charge, care for, and bring their Chromebooks to school each day.  

• Check the class blog, School Loop, and Google Classroom regularly in order to stay on top of upcoming assignments, grades, and class requirements.  

• Help your child as best you can on assignments and/or encourage them to seek help from me before school, at lunch, or after school. Students can even “Loop Mail” me with questions or concerns.

• Check in with your child regularly about their progress and ask what they’re learning in class.  

• Don’t hesitate to contact me and/or request a meeting about your child’s progress.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND BEHAVIOR POLICY

Students in my class have agreed upon several specific classroom responsibilities:

• To be ready to learn.

• To do their best work.

• To treat each other and teachers with mutual respect.

• To listen attentively.

• To work together cooperatively.

• To participate actively.

If students fail to honor their classroom responsibilities, there are specific procedures and consequences.

• 1st offense – Student receives a warning.

• 2nd offense – Student may receive a time-out outside during class to reflect on their behavior.
• 3rd offense – Student may receive a “Teacher Detention” (during lunch or after school) and/or a phone call home. A parent meeting may also be requested.

• 4th offense – Student may receive “Office Referral” (sent to office with the possibility of severe consequences) and parents are contacted.

OVERVIEW OF CURRICULUM

Guided by the 6th Grade California History-Social Studies standards, students will be studying ancient history and civilizations this year.  Topics include:

• Early People and the Beginning of Civilization

• Ancient Mesopotamia

• Ancient Egypt

• Ancient Hebrews and Judaism

• Early Civilizations of India

• Hinduism and Buddhism

• Ancient China

• Ancient Greece

• Ancient Rome and the Beginning of Christianity