Course Syllabus
As we move into a new millennium it is clear that the future we face will be considerably more international in nature than was ever believed possible in the past. Each day print and broadcast journalists make us aware that our world is becoming increasingly smaller and substantially more independent.

World food shortages, regional conflicts, unpredictable stock markets, nuclear and biological weapon proliferation make it clear that the distinctions between domestic and foreign problems are often artificial - that many seemingly domestic problems no longer stop at national boundaries. As Rene Dubos, the 1969 Pulitzer Prize recipient, stated: "It becomes obvious that each of us has two countries, our own and planet earth." As global interdependence has become a reality, it has become vital for the citizens of this world to develop literacy in global matters.

 
Asian Studies Course Description
Asian Studies will concentrate on the following themes:
  • Geography
  • History
  • Political and Social systems
  • Religions and value systems
  • Economics and technology
  • Continuity and change
  • Global Interaction
Required Materials
  • World History: Connections to Today (Textbook)
  • Asian Studies three ringed binder
  • Pens/pencils/colored pencils
  • Loose leaf paper
  • 3.5 high density diskette

Course Outline

Asian Studies will concentrate its study mainly on the countries of China and Japan

China: Geography, Dynasties, European arrival, Decline/Revolution, Communism, Modern China, Tiananmen Square, Relations with the United States.

Japan: Geography, Early Traditions, Feudal Age, Daimyo/Samurai/Shoguns, European Arrival, Imperialism/Democracy, Militarism, Economic Superpower, Relations with the United States.  

Homework

  • Four article summaries (each quarter)
  • Small research paper (Quarter one or three)
  • Preparation for quizzes and tests
  • Completion of in-class assignments
  • Research cards for PowerPoint project (Quarter one or three)
  • Completion of PowerPoint project (Quarter two or four) 

Classroom Assignments

  • In-class writing assignment (A Chinese Village ... Quarter two or four)
  • PowerPoint slideshow (Quarter two or four)

Videotapes

Throughout the semester there will be a variety of videotapes concerning China and Japan. Students are expected to take notes over these videotapes and will be awarded points for their effort. If a student misses a videotape they are expected to make it up after school or during a free period.

Current Events

On each Friday of the week each class will compete in a quarter competition which involves the week’s current events. At the end of the quarter points will be awarded.The class, which is declared the champion (most total points) will be given additional"champion" points. Students that miss on Friday will have –3 deducted from their final points for each Friday missed.. There is no make-up for these points.

Grading

Grading is done on a percentage: 94% A, 90 A-, 87% B+, 84% B, 80% B-, 77% C+,74% C, 70% C-, 67% D+, 64% D, 60% D-, 59% and below F. Grades will be posted onthe front bulletin board and students will receive periodic individual grade sheets to be signed and handed back.

Missing Assignments

On a daily assignment a 10% deduction will be given for each day late. After 5 days the best possible grade will be a D-. You have until the final two days of the quarter to turnin missing assignments.On a missing test you have up to five days to make up the test for full credit if you have an excused admit. If you are unexcused you may make up the test within 5 days but the best possible grade you will receive is a C. After 5 days the best possible grade on the test is a D-. You have until the final two days of the quarter to turn in missing tests.