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Modern World History (Grunder)
Message to the Parent
A student’s high school history experience begins with Modern World History at Walnut Hills. This class also serves as a prerequisite for AP US History. As such, the course serves two distinct needs. Firstly, students will be exposed to a range of objectives examining the human experience since 1500. Secondly, critical thinking and writing skills, especially as it applies to forming generalizations (a thesis) and developing a thesis in an expository essay will be developed and advanced in the class. My expectation is that each student will continue to develop and/or improve their understanding of history while improving upon their analysis and synthesis of content, especially as expressed through the expository essay. It is my hope that the class will serve as an enriching and yet challenging experience for your son or daughter.
Student performance is monitored on a weekly basis. However, due to the restrictive nature of the district’s electronic grading program, I will continue to use my personal grading program. As such, grades for individual assignments will not be available via Power School. Each student will receive a grade update every Monday. The update displays individual scores and the overall average for each student. Additionally, a midterm report will be printed for each student during midterm week. Students earning below 70% at midterm are required to obtain your signature on the report. These reports will be sent home weekly upon your request.
I am hoping you will assist me in ensuring your son or daughter has a successful and rewarding experience in Modern World History this year. With that in mind, I would like to make the following suggestions as you actively monitor your son or daughter’s progress this year:
1) Each student received the attached class syllabus. Ask to see the test two or three days after the test date. I make a serious effort to return tests and materials to students within two days of the date of completion. When I return work to students, I “go over” the work with them. Students are expected to make corrections on their work during this time. Low test scores may result from limited review, inattentiveness during lectures, or limited homework (many questions are based on homework sheets and questions asked in class). Essay questions are a regular feature on tests. Students experiencing problems in setting up essay answers should seek assistance.
2) Check your son or daughter’s notes for clarity. He or she should review the class notes daily in preparation for the next day’s class, or perhaps for a “pop” quiz. If you have time, then turn the headings in the outline into questions and quiz your son or daughter on the answers to those questions. There is a direct relationship between the quality of the note taking and performance levels on tests.
3) Ask your son or daughter about his/her progress every Monday. Look for a detailed midterm report from me the week of midterm. I also provide a detailed report to students at the end of the quarter.
Do not hesitate to call or email me if you have any questions or concerns. You may contact me at 363-8489 (voicemail) or email me: grundes@cpsboe.k12.oh.us. I will make an attempt to return your call or email in a timely and informative fashion.
Mr. Grunder
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