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Introduction to Sociology Syllabus for 2016-2017
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Instructor Information

Instructor

Deborah Harding (Curriculum Vitae)

E-Mail

Email me from your BLACKBOARD CLASSROOM EMAIL!  After the semester is over, you can contact me at: djharding@actx.edu

Phone

<h4><big><strong>Cell: Best way to get me: (806) 584-7569 from 9 am to 9 pm any day.&nbsp; Call me but DO NOT TEXT ME!</strong></big></h4>

Office Location

Dutton Hall 202-J

Office Hours

TO SET UP A MEETING:  CONTACT ME BY PHONE: The VERY BEST WAY TO REACH ME IS AT MY CELL PHONE AT  (806) 584-7569 between 9 AM and 9 PM, any day of the week. 

 

PLEASE...NO TEXTING: Please note that I DO NOT TEXT MY STUDENTS and I DO NOT ACCEPT TEXT MESSAGES.  If you can text me, then you can call me!  AGAIN, my cell phone is 806 584-7569!  If there is an occasion where I am traveling or cannot respond to you in a timely manner by phone, I will let you know that you can text me for that period of time.  However, outside of that, PLEASE CALL!  I enjoy talking to my students! If you text me, I will not respond to you! Sorry...I want to handle all student business over the phone or in an email!

If I'm not available when you call, I will call you back so please tell me your name, the best time to call you AND WHAT CLASS YOU ARE IN!  That way, I can better answer your questions! Thanks!  Also, we can set up a face to face conference if you want to!

 

EMAIL ME: You can also email me through the BLACKBOARD COURSE EMAIL feature!   Again, if you email me outside the CLASSROOM ONLINE EMAIL SYSTEM, your email may not get to me.  It may be treated as spam. SO, USE THE EMAIL FUNCTION IN THE ONLINE CLASS! It's in the MENU to the left of the screen and it says Send an EMAIL!   Click on that and then select SEND AN EMAIL TO THE INSTRUCTORS in the CLASS!  

 

OFFICE HOURS and APPOINTMENT TIMES: 

SPRING- II - 2021:  March 22nd through May 14th:   I will be ON CAMPUS in my office in DUTTON HALL 202J Monday and Wednesday from 10:30 to 12:00 pm. I have a 9 am to 10:15 am course, as well as a Monday-Thursday 12:30 pm to 1:45 pm course.   Please call me so we can set up an appointment time that works for you. We can meet virtually or somewhere where we can socially distance effectively (not in my office!) I have a virtual office in COLLABORATE where we can also meet face to face if you need tutoring or just to chat, if you prefer. 
If you want to meet with me outside of those hours, I'm happy to do that. Please call me and we can set up a time to meet. As well, I'm happy to meet with you  on a FACETIME CALL or in our COLLABORATE MEETING PLACE ONLINE! I am happy to tutor you in any way I can so you can succeed in this course! Please call me at 806 584-7569 to meet with me on any other day.  I appreciate you calling me first on my cell phone if you want to meet with me in my office so that I can prepare to meet you in order to protect both of us from COVID exposure.  Thank you! 
SO YOU DON'T KNOW HOW TO USE COLLABORATE:  There will be a video for you to watch as to how to attend COLLABORATE MEETINGS in your COURSE MENU LIST. Go online to your BLACKBOARD CLASS and you will see it in the MENU LIST to the LEFT OF THE SCREEN. As well, please feel free to call me if you are still not sure how to use COLLABORATE for your online meeting.  I am happy to do anything I can do to assist you during this difficult semester! Please call me at 806 584-7569 and let's figure out a time to work with you!
NEED MORE HELP: Call me! I can tutor you.  If you need more help with tutoring in the class you are in, we can get you set up with the folks at the STUDENT SUCCESS TUTORING CENTER can help you. We will work online or over the phone, in COLLABORATE or we can facetime until the advisories for social distancing pass.

FOR ONLINE CLASSES or ON-CAMPUS TECHNOLOGY ASSISTED CLASSES:  THE BEST WAY TO SET UP AN INDIVIDUAL APPOINTMENT is to CALL ME ON MY CELLPHONE at 806 584-7569.

FOLKS: Please, I give you my cell phone number so you can call me between 9 am and 9 pm, 7 days a week! Feel free to CALL me OR EMAIL ME SO WE CAN FIGURE OUT WHERE AND WHEN we can either visit by phone or in person!  Please do not abuse your privilege of having my cell number.  Again, please call me or email me. ....please DO NOT TEXT MESSAGE ME!  I want to communicate with you directly!

Course Information

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

If you have a disability (learning, mental, physical) that affects your ability to participate effectively and have access to any program or service at Amarillo College please contact Disability Services at (806) 345-5639 . Our offices are located in the Student Service Center office 112. More information may be found at www.actx.edu/disability.
Disability Services facilitates access to all programs and services according to the ADA, Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, as well as other federal and state laws.

Amarillo College Web Accessibility Policy Statement

Amarillo College is committed to providing equal access to all programs and services, including all working, learning, and service environments that affect equal access for persons with disabilities. This commitment to provide equal access and opportunity for persons with disabilities is in compliance with federal and state law. Amarillo College also strives to provide Electronic and Information Resources (EIR) that are accessible to all authorized users.

If you find you are unable to access material in an accessible format please contact the Disability Services Office at (806) 345-5639 . This office will work in conjunction with other campus resources to address and accommodate your issue in a timely manner.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Administrative Drop Policy

Students who do not attend class on or prior to the census date will be administratively dropped. Effective Fall, 2016

Student Withdrawal Procedures

Students who wish to withdraw from a class must:

  • consult with their instructor to obtain a signed academic withdrawal request form to submit to the AskAC department for processing
  • consult with the financial aid office if receiving financial aid
  • consult with the Veterans Benefit Coordinator if receiving veteran benefits
  • consult with their academic advisor to determine how withdrawing may affect their enrollment in future semesters
    • NOTE:  The Texas Education Code stipulates that students attending Texas institutions of higher education for the first time fall 2007 and later may not withdraw from more than six courses during their academic career, including courses from which transfer students have withdrawn at other Texas institutions of higher education. (Senate Bill 1231) Rule 4.10.

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

SOCI-1301-001 Introduction to Sociology

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: RDNG 0331-minimum grade of C or a score on a state-approved test indicating college-level reading skills

Course Description

The scientific study of human society, including ways in which groups, social institutions and individuals affect each other. Causes of social stability and social change are explored through the application of various theoretical perspectives, key concepts and related research methods of sociology. Analysis of social issues in their institutional context may include topics such as social stratification, gender, race/ethnicity and deviance.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

Online Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

TEXTBOOKS and STUDY GUIDE

Henslin, James. Sociology: A Down-to-Earth Approach, Core Concepts (6th Edition). PEARSON

ISBN-13: 978-0-205-99984-2

You do not need to order access codes for this book, since this instructor makes up her own study guides for the tests. However, the publisher study resources are excellent and, if you want, you can order the text with the online resources. It’s up to you. 

Supplies

STUDENT SUPPLIES AND RESOURCES

YOU MUST HAVE ACCESS TO A WORKING COMPUTER OR BE ABLE TO ACCESS THE AC COMPUTERS DURING THE TIMES THEY ARE OPEN.  If you don't have your own computer, use AC computers. We have computers for your use in the on campus COMPUTER LABS as well as the 4th floor of the library.  There are LOADS OF PEOPLE TO HELP YOU WITH YOUR COMPUTER and the AC CONNECT BLACKBOARD COURSES that you will be having here at AMARILLO COLLEGE!  Be sure you ask for help if you are having a difficult time. 

If you need help to set up your AC CONNECT account, go to the second floor of the library and they will assist you in getting set up! If you need help you may also contact our Helpdesk at 371-5000 or email them at askac@actx.edu

To access AC CONNECT, you need your AC online user name and password. This class has an online courseroom that you can access by going to the AC homepage, clicking on AC ONLINE at the top of the homepage, and then putting in your user name and password when prompted.  You will see the online link to our classroom. This is where you will be able to access and print off lecture notes in power point, assignments, reminders, and study guides for the exams, and where you will take your EXAMS.  ALL OF THE AC LIBRARY COMPUTERS HAVE POWERPOINT AND MSWORD, SO YOU CAN USE THEM AT ANY TIME THE LIBRARY IS OPEN. NOTE THAT LIBRARY INFORMATION IS FOUND BELOW: YOU WILL NEED TO CONTACT THE LIBRARY TO GET HOURS DURING HOLIDAY PERIODS. CONTACT THE LIBRARY AT:

  • WashingtonStreetCampus--Lynn Library (806-371-5400, Toll-free 866-371-5468)

  • West Campus Library(6100 West 9th St.; 806-356-3627)

  • Email the library for help:   library-help@actx.edu

Please Note: Computer users must exit computers 10 minutes before closing time.

 LIBRARY OPERATING HOURS ARE:

FALL and SPRING HOURS:

Monday - Thursday..............7:30 am - 9:00 pm 

Friday.................................7:30 am - 5:00 pm

Saturday.............................CLOSED

Sunday...............................2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

  • 4th Floor Only:

    • Monday-Thursday 9:00-6:50

    • Friday 9:00-12:50

    • Saturday Closed

    • Sunday 2:00 – 5:50

Be sure you check for Holidays and Additional Closings! 

SUMMER HOURS ARE:

Monday - Thursday..............7:30 am - 9:00 pm (On Thursdays, 4th Floor only closes at 5:00 pm.)

Friday.................................7:30 am - 12:00 noon

Saturday.............................CLOSED

Sunday...............................2:00 pm - 6:00 pm

 

WRITER's CORNER:  WELCOME TO THE WRITER'S CORNER FOR HELP WITH YOUR PAPER!!!

If you have trouble writing, we have a great support system for you at the WRITER's CORNER.  Please take advantage of this resource and have them HELP YOU WITH YOUR PAPER! They will send me a tutoring report which will help you in your grade, and I PROMISE, taking the time and making the effor tto visit the good folks at the WRITER's CORNER will be worth your while when it comes to your PAPER GRADE! This is a large part of your final grade for this course, so USE THEM! 

  • Folks, this is a GREAT RESOURCE if you are not the BEST WRITER! They will help you polish your paper and give you help with your final project for this class!  USE THIS RESOURCE!!!

  • For help with your papers: go to Writers' Corner

  • Mission and Services:The Writers’ Corner staff firmly believe that good writing is an essential skill for being successful in college. Our main goal, therefore, is to help students become more confident and effective writers.Whether drafting research papers, preparing marketing proposals, or working on writing projects for any class at Amarillo College, students will benefit from one-on-one tutoring sessions with knowledgeable and encouraging tutors.  Our tutors review assignment requirements, provide constructive feedback, and guide students through all phases of the writing process.The Writers’ Corner is open to all students, regardless of academic discipline and skill level.

  • We Offer:*One-on-one tutoring sessions with trained tutors,  small workshops throughout the semester covering various aspects of academic writing,  in-class presenations on the role of the Writers' Corner, a waiting area for walk-ins and early arrivals, coffee and donuts for students with appointments, EMAIL US AT: writerscorner@actx.edu

  • OR stop by: LOCATION:  Ordway Hall, Room 102

  • Hours of Operation:

    • Fall & Spring Semesters:Monday - Thursday  8:00 am to 4:00 pm and ClosedFriday, Saturday, and Sunday

    • Summer Sessions:  Monday - Thursday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm and Closed Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

 

TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT OFF YOUR LECTURE POWERPOINT NOTES:

In order to print out your powerpoint lecture notes you will need a computer that has POWER POINT on it (as the library computers do). OPEN THE FILE YOU WANT TO PRINT OFF.   Open up the file by clicking on THE LINK, AND YOU CAN EITHER OPEN IT BY CLICKING ON THE FILE NAME OR BY WAITING FOR IT TO OPEN AUTOMATICALLY.  Once it has opened up in power point, click on PRINT from the menu list at the top of the screen. This will open your printer driver window. Since all printer driver windows are different a bit depending upon the printer you are using, look for the place where it says "PRINT WHAT"...select Handouts from the menu. Then you'll see the Handouts area light up and select 3 for number of slides per page. Also, if you have a color printer but don't want to print in color, you can select Gray Scale , rather than color and save on that color ink.

Student Performance

COURSE OBJECTIVES: WHAT YOU SHOULD LEARN

STUDENT PERFORMANCE GOALS:

1)  Learners will gain a working knowledge as to how individuals impact society, social situations, culture, institutions, and groups and how society impacts and shapes individuals in the process of socialization.

2)  Learners will gain an understanding of how scientific methodology is applied to studying sociology.

3)  Learners will analyze the major concepts and theories in the field of sociology.

4)  Once learners develop these conceptual tools, they develop the ability to apply research findings and theories to real world social situations, such as dealing with race and ethnicity, culture, groups, conformity, gender issues, and family life.

5) Specific areas of study in sociology will be considered, such as crime and deviance, gender, race and ethnicity and prejudice, groups, and family life.

6)  Students will be assigned various social topics to research and/or discuss in class, including, but not limited to, the death penalty, health reform, gay marriage, and financial and political reform, as current and relevant social issues impacting their lives.

7)      By the end of this course, students will have a greater appreciation for diversity within societies, cultures and social institutions, and are able to think critically about issues in sociology that impact them. As well, students will be able to use this knowledge to better their own social relationships and society in practical ways.

  

 

 

 

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

STUDENT BEHAVIOR: What is expected of you!

IF THIS IS AN ON CAMPUS COURSE: Students are expected to attend class, to participate in class and to prepare for class lectures and discussions by reading the text and doing homework assignments. Students are expected to turn off all electronic devices (if you have a sick child, you may bring your phone and put it on vibrate). Please do not engage in side conversations during class time, texting, reading newspapers, taking naps, and any other distracting behaviors. If you miss class, you are expected to contact the instructor and/or other students in the class to get information about the class. 

FOR ALL COURSES: Since this instructor emails reminders via the AC ONLINE classroom announcement page, it's best to check into your AC ONLINE class frequently.  As well, all course notes and assignments are in the AC ONLINE classroom folders, as directed by your instructor.   It is your responsibility to get the information and printed materials, as well as take EXAMS in the AC Online classroom. If you don't have a computer, simply check the ones in the library.  You can get onto AC ONLINE from any computer anywhere!

Each student is expected to engage in academic honesty, refraining from cheating on EXAMS or plagiarism. YOUR EXAMS ARE MEANT TO BE TAKEN BY YOU!  IF THIS INSTRUCTOR LEARNS THAT YOU ARE COLLABORATING ON EXAMS, YOU WILL FAIL THE COURSE!  Plagiarism on written work will NOT be tolerated.  PLAGIARISM IS USING SOMEONE ELSES’ MATERIAL AS IF IT WERE WRITTEN OR ORIGINATED BY YOU.  If you plagiarize, you can fail the assignment and receive a 0.  Plagiarism means copying off of the internet, quoting directly without giving credit to the source, or using parts of another persons work as your own. Copying and pasting material off the internet is strictly forbidden!   YOU MUST CITE ALL SOURCES AND HAVE A REFERENCE SECTION WITH APA STYLE CITATIONS FOR YOUR PAPER! PLEASE DO NOT ENGAGE IN THIS BEHAVIOR.  We have access to a plagiarism checker program and any paper that this instructor sees is plagiarized in part or in full, will be getting a 0 on the paper, and a letter of reprimand will be filed in your academic record.  IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS AS TO WHETHER SOMETHING IS CONSIDERED PLAGIARISM, PLEASE ASK YOUR INSTRUCTOR BEFORE YOU ENGAGE IN QUESTIONABLE BEHAVIOR!  AGAIN, I CONSIDER THIS A VERY SERIOUS OFFENSE AND WILL NOT TOLERATE IT!!!

FOR ONLINE COURSES AND ONLINE PORTIONS OF TRADITIONAL AND HYBRID COURSES: Students are expected to engage in appropriate "netiquette" in the ONLINE PORTIONS of this class AT ALL TIMES.  Inappropriate online behaviors, such as swearing, discussion of inappropriate issues NOT related to the course room material, or any type of intolerance or rudeness to other learners will not be tolerated and may result in having to drop this course, failing the class, or dismissal from Amarillo College. Treat others as you like to be treated and everything should be fine!

Now, having said that, please remember that this is an COLLEGE LEVEL COURSE, and we will be discussing controversial issues in an ADULT MANNER!  You are expected to act like an adult in these discussions and realize that others may think and feel differently than you on a host of issues related to sociology!  Diversity is a GREAT THING and to be APPRECIATED in this instructors opinion.  If you find something offensive that is said by another student OR your instructor, please don't hesitate to contact me and discuss this with me.  However, it's important to remember that this course is not designed to CONFIRM YOUR OWN POLITICAL or RELIGIOUS BELIEFS, but rather to get you to think about sociology, society, and people in a bigger way than you may have already been exposed to. IN THAT, YOU MAY FIND YOURSELF UNCOMFORTABLE AT TIMES, AS YOU ARE BEING REQUIRED TO STRETCH OUTSIDE OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE! This is a part of what it means to get an education!  Obviously, learning to see the world in a different light is the goal of this course!   You are encouraged to debate others, and your instructor, in a polite BUT WELL INFORMED manner!  If you want to debate a point made, all this instructor asks, is that you bring your sources and do a good job of backing up your ideas.  In academics, we like well informed opinions!  This is KEY to analytical and creative thinking and is the hallmark of what it means to have academic freedom!  If you are not comfortable expressing your opinions in front of the class, you may obtain 10 extra credit points by WRITING a rebuttal paper.  If your instructor feels that you have backed up your point of view with sources that are informed and expert on the topic, your instructor will READ your paper to the class (with your permission of course!).  Let's enjoy the spirit of debate (and we will actually have a REAL DEBATE over the DEATH PENALTY in class...your instructor ONLY plays the time keeper and steering the discussion so that everyone is heard).  I look forward to a REAL educational experience with you all! 

If you have a complaint about this course, please contact me first.  If you are uncomfortable doing that, you may contact my supervisor, Dr. STEFANIE DECKER, at DUTTON HALL 202-L, or call her at 371-5195. 

If you have a concern that something you want to say or write that you think might offend others in the classroom or in the online course-room, run it by me first. Simply contact me via the AC ONLINE class email. As well, if you are aware of any student being mistreated or harassed in this course (including yourself), please bring it to my immediate attention.  We have zero tolerance for any student being mistreated here at Amarillo College. This will be a SAFE place for the expression of ideas and exchanges! Remember, you are an adult and differences in opinions, beliefs and ideas are a critical part of adult education!  You are expected to be an adult in this class!  Thank you for making our class a safe place to discuss ideas and to learn!   ~ Dr. Harding

•

 

Grading Criteria

GRADING CRITERIA: How to VIEW your GRADES and COMMENTS, and GRADING SCALE:

YOU CAN SEE YOUR GRADES FOR THIS COURSE AT ALL TIMES BY GOING TO THE COURSE HOMEPAGE, AND CLICKING ON the "MY GRADES" TAB in the MENU to the left of your screen.  There will be a list of items so scroll down to see what you want to look at. Also, there will be a link to COMMENTS..just click on that to see what your instructor has said about your work, and VIEW RUBRIC, to see exactly HOW I HAVE GRADED YOUR WORK! You are expected to use instructor comments to improve for the next time!   IF YOU THINK THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH YOUR GRADE, PLEASE LET ME KNOW IMMEDIATELY, SO WE CAN GET IT CORRECTED RIGHT AWAY! THANKS!

Your final grade for this course will be based on the standard grading percentages:

  • 89.45 - 100 = A
  • 79.45 - 89.44 = B
  • 69.45 - 79.44 = C
  • 49.45 - 69.44 = D
  • Below 49.5 - F

YOUR FINAL GRADE WILL BE BASED ON THE FOLLOWING:

Syllabus Quiz: Print syllabus, take quiz required to show you are in this course =  10 points

SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT TOPIC:  = 10 points

UNIT 1 & 2 DISCUSSIONS   20 points each =  40 points                          

SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT and ESSAY (required) =  100 points

Units 1, 2 and 3 EXAMS: EXAMS 1, 2  & 3 ARE REQUIRED and worth 100 points each.

*THE FINAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAM (EXAM 4):   This exam replaces a lower or a MISSED EXAM GRADE from UNITS 1, 2 and 3, and is also worth 100 points).  If you miss an exam in Units 1, 2 or 3, you are required to take EXAM 4 which is  a comprehensive FINAL exam.  If you have done poorly on one of the exams in Units 1, 2 or 3 you can opt to take the fourth exam as well.  Your lowest score will be replaced by the 4th exam.  YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE THIS EXAM if YOU DIDN'T MISS AN EXAM or are HAPPY WITH THE GRADES YOU GOT on UNITS 1, 2 and 3 EXAMS.

 The grade book is designed to take the highest of these 4 exams (Units 1, 2, 3, and FINAL EXAM 4).  TRY NOT TO MISS ANY EXAMS and then you won't have to take the FINAL EXAM!  = Total exam points: 300 points                                                                                          

EXTRA CREDIT OPPORTUNITY: CH 1 SCIENCE QUIZ, and UNITS 1, 2, 3 Practice Quiz          (worth up to *20 EXTRA CREDIT points)                      

TOTAL POINTS = 460 points  (+ a possible 20 extra credit pts)

Attendance

STUDENT ATTENDANCE:

"90% of Success is SHOWING UP": WOODY ALLEN  While it may be tempting to SKIP CAMPUS BASED COURSES or to ONLY CHECK INTO YOUR ONLINE CLASSES ONCE A WEEK, know that the #1 factor linked with good grades and SUCCESS IN COLLEGE is REGULAR and FREQUENT class attendance (Yes...it's just the same for both ON LINE and ON CAMPUS COURSES...BEING INVOLVED AND ENGAGED HELPS YOU SUCCEED!).

GET HELP RIGHT AWAY if you are not familiar with AC CONNECT and BLACKBOARD. ALL AC COURSES HAVE AN ONLINE COMPONENT, whether they are ONLINE OR TRADITIONAL ON CAMPUS COURSES or A BLEND OF BOTH CALLED HYBRID COURSES.  Be sure you use the STUDENT TOOLS and HELP WITH BLACKBOARD tutorials, and you can call the AC HELPDESK at 371-5000, as well as get help in the LIBRARY on WASHINGTON STREET on the 4th FLOOR with the staff there! You can also get help in any of the COMPUTER LABS across campus!

We want you to do great in your AC classes, so please LET US HELP YOU! If we don't know your difficulties, we cannot be of service!  Also, call me if you want some help with the course materials!  REMEMBER: The best way to get me is on my cellphone! I’m always happy to answer your questions if I can!   ~THANKS! DR. HARDING

Calendar

CALENDAR AND LESSONS: SUMMER 2017

General Sociology 1301 ONLINE SECTION 001

WHAT TO DO and WHEN IS IT DUE CALENDAR-CHECKLIST: PRINT OFF AND KEEP BY YOUR COMPUTER:

 Check off items as you complete them! Keep Track of your work!

CALENDAR OVERVIEW: DUE DATES

  • CLASS OPENS MONDAY, JUNE 5th (You may be able to get started on Friday, June 2nd)
  • SYLLABUS QUIZ due MONDAY, JUNE 12th by 11:55 pm, THIS QUIZ IS REQUIRED TO STAY IN THIS COURSE! Failure to take it may result in administrative withdraw from class.
  • UNIT 1 INTRODUCTION & DISCUSSION over SECRETS OF WILD CHILD Film, and MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, and PARENTING WITH LOVE & LOGIC film, and Chps 1, 2 & 3 due MONDAY, JUNE 19th by 11:55 pm
  • CHAPTER 1 SCIENCE PRACTICE QUIZ (worth up to 5 extra credit points) and the UNIT 1 PRACTICE QUIZ (worth up to 5 extra credit points) due TUESDAY JUNE 20th by 11:55 pm. You can take each quiz as many times as you like to increase your score.
  • UNIT 1 EXAM CLOSES WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21st by 11:55 pm over Ch 1, 2, 3, all 3 films, nature nurture, Science and theory handout. You get 2 attempts (gradebook takess highest score!)
  • NOTE: NOTHING IS DUE OVER JULY 4th weekend, but UNIT 2 Discussion due JULY 5th!
  • UNIT 2 DISCUSSION over HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS and other short videos: What would I do in the cases I saw in this film? Due WEDNESDAY, JULY 5th by 11:55 pm.
  • UNIT 2 PRACTICE EXAM (worth up to 5 extra credit points) due THURSDAY, JULY 6th by 11:55 pm. You can take it as many times as you like to increase your score.
  • UNIT 2 EXAM closes FRIDAY, JULY 7th by 11:55 pm. Over 4, 5, 6, HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS and other short films & CJ handout along with BRYAN STEVENSON TED TALK.
  • SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY, edited and complete IN THE TEMPLATE YOU WERE GIVEN is DUE IN SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT DROP BOX by MONDAY, JULY 24th by 11:55 pm.
  • UNIT 3 PRACTICE EXAM (worth up to 5 extra credit points) closes by TUESDAY, JULY 25th by 11:55 pm (worth up to 5 extra credit points). You can take it again to increase your score.
  • UNIT 3 EXAM closes WEDNESDAY, JULY 26th by 11:55 pm over ch 7, 8, 9, 10, PEOPLE BOMB and CLASS DIVIDED films & handouts.
  • FINAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAM CLOSES THURSDAY, JULY 27th by 11:55 pm: If you are happy with Units 1-3 Exam grades AND DID NOT MISS AN EXAM, you do not have to take the FINAL! If you missed an exam or want to better your grade, take the FINAL EXAM. The grade book is set to take the highest of your four exams. FINAL EXAM closes WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 14th by 11:55 pm. It covers All UNITS 1, 2 and 3 and chapters 1 - 10, along with all films we watched and all required handouts! It's the whole deal! FINAL GRADES SUBMITTED BY JULY 28th noon.

DETAILED CALENDAR: This part of your calendar gives more explicit detail!

  • NOTE: If something in your COURSE SAYS REQUIRED: It will be on the exam! Be sure you check your email on your AC GOOGLE MAIL ACCOUNT for updates, changes and reminders! Also, get in the habit of automatically checking your course announcements when you go into the AC CONNECT CLASSROOM. NOTE: Students who attend class at least 3 days a week (that is, who go into the online class and work) do better than those that show up irregularly. GET YOURSELF A STUDY SCHEDULE THAT WORKS and STICK TO IT. You will benefit at grade time!
  • REMINDER: This is an 8 week course SO, STAY ON TOP OF YOUR WORK! Procrastinating is a bad bad strategy! Do NOT wait until the last minute to turn things in. ONLINE systems seem to often go crazy and something always goes wrong. IF YOU WAIT until the last minute and something goes wrong at 11:55 pm, DO NOT CALL OR TEXT ME! Sorry! You are on your own!
  • FIRST THINGS TO DO: Course opens: JUNE 5th
    • PRINT OFF THIS CALENDAR and KEEP IT WITH YOU TO BE CERTAIN OF DUE DATES.
    • SYLLABUS QUIZ: READ SYLLABUS and TAKE QUIZ REQUIRED: Syllabus Quiz is Due NO LATER THAN MONDAY JUNE 12th by 11:55 pm: Review syllabus, print it, take this quiz. Failure to take quiz may result in LOSS OF FINANCIAL AID as you may not be counted on census and academically withdrawn from class.
    • SERVICE PROJECT TOPIC is due in TOPIC DROP BOX by THURSDAY, JUNE 15th by 11:55 pm: Go to the SERVICE PROJECT tab in the menu in your BLACKBOARD CLASSROOM, and download the SERVICE PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS, TEMPLATE (YOU MUST USE THIS TEMPLATE TO TYPE IN YOUR ESSAY!), and look at the VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES in the handouts and VOLUNTEER MATCH WEBSITE. Make your selection, contact the agency and GET STARTED RIGHT AWAY because you need to complete 4 hours of service and then write a well edited and sourced essay (IN THE PROVIDED TEMPLATE) for this course! Don't wait until the last minute!
    • REMINDER YOUR SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY: You only have 6 and 1/2 weeks so get after it as your SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY is due MONDAY, JULY 24th by 11:55 pm. Don't wait to start this! Get it done early! I LOVE EARLY BIRDS!
  • Unit 1: CHAPTERS 1, 2 and 3: SCIENCE LAB & QUIZ, Unit 1 DISCUSSION including watching the SECRETS OF THE WILD CHILD FILM, review Theory Handout and Select SERVICE PROJECT TOPC: Opens beginning of class and closes WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21st at 11:55 pm when UNIT 1 EXAM closes:
    • TO DO FOR UNIT 1: READINGS, DISCUSSION and VIDEOS:
      • Remember to begin your SERVICE PROJECT and TAKE THE SYLLABUS QUIZ!
      • Read CH 1 and print off THEORY HANDOUT: INTRODUCTION AND SCIENCE. You can take the SCIENCE PRACTICE QUIZ for up to 5 extra credit points
      • Read CH 2: on CULTURE and you are REQUIRED to WATCH the full length film MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING ONLINE, take notes as you go. Questions on the exam!
      • Read CH 3: on SOCIALIZATION. Watch the SECRETS OF THE WILD CHILD video and a SHORT VIDEO ON NATURE VS NURTURE in the UNIT 1 REQUIRED VIDEO FOLDER. Also watch the PARENTING WITH LOVE AND LOGIC movie and print off the handouts for this. This is also a REQUIRED FILM!
    • SERVICE PROJECT PREPARATION: DO NOT PROCRASTINATE ON THIS!
      • INSTRUCTIONS: Review the SERVICE PROJECT INSTRUCTIONS, save the TEMPLATE for the ESSAY to your computer where you will use it to anser the required questions about your project. Next, check out all the VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES in the handouts and VOLUNTEER MATCH website for Amarillo Agencies. Get started on your project right away. You only have 6 and 1/2 weeks (it's due a week before the end of class!
      • SUBMIT YOUR TOPIC in the SERVICE PROJECT TOPIC DROP BOX by THURSDAY, JUNE 15th 11:55 pm: CHOOSE: Review the suggested projects for this course and select one or YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR OWN PROJECT, (if you choose your own, run it by your professor first by sending her an email or calling). NOTE: You may not do a project that ios for your family, and you may not do a project that is related to a church and their evangelical mission (that is, recruiting members). However, if your church engages in projects that serve the community, you can participate in those. Also, be sure you CAN GET your project done six weeks! TIME IS IMPORTANT HERE! KEEP IT SIMPLE!
      • DUE DATES FOR YOUR PROJECT: YOUR PROJECT TOPIC is due THURSDAY, JUNE 15th by 11:55 pm in the TOPIC DROP BOX (10 points) and your SERVICE LEARNING 5- QUESTION ESSAY over your PROJECT is due SUNDAY, JULY 23rd in the SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY DROP BOX by 11:55 pm. It's worth 100 points towards your final grade, so don't procrastinate!
    • UNIT 1 DISCUSSION and INTRODUCTION: DUE MONDAY, JUNE 19th by 11:55 pm. The Unit 1 Discussion is over Chapter 2 and Chapter 3, as well as the three videos you watched including MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING (if the link is working), the SECRETS OF THE WILD CHILD, and the short NATURE VS NURTURE video you will watch on line, as well as the PARENTING WITH LOVE and LOGIC video and handout. To do the discussion: 1) First read Chapter 2 and 3, and watch MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, SECRETS of the WILD CHILD film and the short video on nature vs. nurture and the PARENTING WITH LOVE AND LOGIC, which you will find in the UNIT 1 REQUIRED VIDEOS folder. In the UNIT 1 Discussion,
      • FIRST: Introduce yourself and tell us a little about you.
      • SECOND, answer all questions being asked on the issue of NATURE VS NURTURE and the FILMS! There are also questions over the LOVE AND LOGIC movie, so respond to those!
      • THIRD, Respond to AT LEAST ONE OTHER STUDENT in a substantive manner. You can respond to others as well, but make them SUBSTANTIVE. "I agree with you" is NOT SUBSTANCE..it's a DISCUSSION of IDEAS!
      • EDIT YOUR WORK! REMEMBER: NO TEXTING LANGUAGE allowed, please use proper ENGLISH, GRAMMAR & PUNCTUATION, and EDIT YOUR WORK. Your discussion is a COLLEGE LEVEL WRITING ASSIGNMENT. Worth 20 points.
      • Due MONDAY,JUNE 19th by 11:55 pm in UNIT 1 DISCUSSION BOX. NO LATE WORK ACCEPTED. The discussion box closes at 11:55 pm.
  • CH 1 SCIENCE PRACTICE QUIZ and the UNIT 1 PRACTICE QUIZ CLOSE TUESDAY, JUNE 20th by 11:55 pm: These quizzes are optional and are worth up to 5 extra credit points each (Depending upon how many items you get correct). You can choose not to take the extra credit quizzes, or you can take it as many times as you like to get your extra credit! The gradebook is set to take the highest score of your attempt(s).
  • UNIT 1 EXAM over study guide including chapters 1, 2, 3, SCIENCE and the SCIENCE QUIZ, and ideas about NATURE vs. NURTURE and SECRETS OF THE WILD CHILD, Culture and MY BIG FAT GREEK WEDDING, as well as PARENTING with LOVE AND LOGIC videos: Due WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21st by 11: 55 pm.

 

  • Unit 2: CHAPTERS 4, 5, 6, all videos including the HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS and other short videos and the CHAPTER 6 HANDOUT on AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM along with BRYAN STEVENSON TED TALK: CLOSES FRIDAY, JULY 7th by 11:55 pm (the day after JULY 4th weekend) by 11:55 pm. I've given you some extra days so that NOTHING is DUE OVER JULY 4th holiday weekend!
    • UNIT 2 READINGS, DUSCUSSION and VIDEOS:
      • Read CH 4
      • Read CH 5 and watch the HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS video as well as the other shorter videos related to Chapter 5 in the UNIT 2 REQUIRED VIDEOS FOLDER
      • Read CH 6 and, for Chapter 6 download the handout on AFRICAN AMERICANS in the CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYTEM and watch the BRYAN STEVENSON TED TALK on RACE REALITIES IN THE AMERICAN CJS.
      • After watching the videos, do UNIT 2 Discussion and respond to at least one other students discussion post.
      • Fill out UNIT 2 EXAM study guide as you read to prepare for the UNIT 2 exam. NOTE THERE WILL BE SEVERAL QUESTIONS OVER THE VIDEOS AND HANDOUT! Be sure you cover them!
    • UNIT 2 DISCUSSION: DUE WEDNESDAY, JULY 5th by 11:55 pm. The Unit 2 Discussion is over THE HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS VIDEO, as well as the required shorter videos you watched. In the UNIT 2 Discussion,
      • FIRST: answer all questions being asked on the issue of WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU WOULD DO in SIMILAR SITUATIONS as you saw in the film? Why did these people act in such a manner?
      • SECOND, Respond to AT LEAST ONE OTHER STUDENT in a substantive manner.
      • EDIT YOUR WORK! REMEMBER: NO TEXTING LANGUAGE allowed, please use proper ENGLISH, GRAMMAR & PUNCTUATION, and EDIT YOUR WORK. Your discussion is a COLLEGE LEVEL WRITING ASSIGNMENT. Worth 20 points.
      • Due WEDNESDAY, JULY 5th by 11:55 pm. NO LATE WORK ACCEPTED.
  • UNIT 2 PRACTICE EXAM: Due THURSDAY, JULY 6th by 11:55 pm (worth up to 5 extra credit points). You can take this quiz or not. If you take it, you can take it as many times as you like to increase your extra credit points. )

 

  • UNIT 2 EXAM: Due FRIDAY, JULY 7th by 11:55 pm: covers Chapters 4, 5, and 6, HUMAN BEHAVIOR EXPERIMENTS video along with the other shorter videos related to chapter 5, the TED TALK by BRYAN STEVENSON on RACIAL REALITIES IN THE AMERICAN CJS, and the AFRICAN AMERICANS in the CJS handout, as well as the study guide for UNIT 2. NOTE: If it says required, it will be on the exam.

REMINDER: Nothing is due in this class between FRIDAY through TUESDAY JULY 4th weekend!

 

  • Unit 3: covers CHAPTERS 7, 8, 9 and 10, SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY, the PEOPLE BOMB, POVERTY TED TALK, and CLASS DIVIDED VIDEOS and Unit 3 Study Guide: Unit 3 closes THURSDAY, JULY 27thTUESDAY, by 11:55 pm and final grades are posted by FRIDAY, JULY 28th by noon. UNIT 3 EXAM closes WEDNESDAY, JULY 26th and, if you have to take or choose to take the UNIT 4 FINAL COMPREHENSIVE EXAM, it CLOSES, along with the class by THURSDAY, JULY 27th by 11:55 pm.
  • Grades posted FRIDAY, JULY 28th by noon.
    • UNIT 3 READINGS and VIDEOS:
      • Read Chapters 7 and Watch the Chapter 7 THE PEOPLE BOMB video and read through the PEOPLE BOMB FACT SHEET, along with the POVERTY TED TALK.
      • Read Ch 8
      • Read Ch 9 and For Chapter 9, watch THE CLASS DIVIDED video.
      • Read Ch 10.
      • Fill out the Unit 3 Study Guide. There will be questions over the videos as well as the chapters for EXAM 3!
    • UNIT 3 SERVICE LEARNING PROJECT ESSAY (worth 100 pts): REQUIRED by the STATE OF TEXAS: DUE MONDAY, JULY 24th by 11:55 pm:
      • BE SURE YOU READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS for this REQUIRED SERVICE PROJECT ESSAY in the SERVICE PROJECT FOLDER
      • In order to prepare for ESSAY QUESTION #5, you can do the LAB TUTORIAL on READING GRAPHS. There is also a handout over this.
      • COMPLETE YOUR ESSAY: YOU CAN PRE-WRITE your ESSAY ANSWERING THE PROJECT QUESTIONS. You can paste your essays into the text boxes on the QUIZ! You also have your "rubrics" for these questions, as to how you will be graded. Follow all instructions and carefully EDIT YOUR WORK. If you are not a strong writer, CONTACT THE WRITER'S CORNER (see the LINK TO THE WRITER's CORNER in the MENU TAB on your AC CONNECT HOMEPAGE for this course.) They will help you edit your work and clarify your ideas! This will help you do better on your ESSAY which is worth 100 points total. Again, see the INSTRUCTION SHEET for the SERVICE PROJECT for all questions on the ESSAY! They will send me a tutorial report and you might get up to 10 extra points on your paper if you have made their suggested corrections.
      • UPLOAD YOUR ESSAY that is written IN THE TEMPLATE PROVIDED FOR YOU. You will upload it in the SERVICE PROJECT ESSAY DROP BOX. This is REQUIRED FOR YOU TO GET ANY CREDIT on your SERVICE PROJECT drop. If you post your ESSAY LATE for ANY REASON (since you have had ALL SEMESTER TO DO IT), then you will only get 50% for your project if you have done a good job. I won't grade any late essays posted past SUNDAY JULY 23rd but you can get 50 points possible on your project by posting your essay late. That's still an F, but it's better than a 0.
      • DUE MONDAY, JULY 24th by 11:55 pm in the DROP BOX. NO LATE ESSAYS GRADED!
  • UNIT 3 PRACTICE EXAM: CLOSES TUESDAY, JULY 25TH by 11:55 pm: (worth up to 5 extra credit points). You can take this quiz or not. If you take it, you can take it as many times as you like to increase your extra credit points.

 

  • UNIT 3 EXAM: DUE WEDNESDAY, JULY 26TH by 11 :55 pm. Over Chapters 7, 8, 9 and 10, the Unit 3 Study Guide, along with the PEOPLE BOMB and CLASS DIVIDED videos, as well as any other REQUIRED items! If it says required, it's on the exam.

 

  • UNIT 4 EXAM: COMPREHENSIVE EXAM DUE BY THURSDAY, JULY 27TH by 11:55 pm: IF YOU MISSED AN EXAM FROM UNITS 1, 2, OR 3, or DID POORLY ON ONE OF YOUR EXAMS, you may TAKE EXAM 4 to replace your other grade or the missed test. If you didn't miss an exam and/or are happy with your grades on Units 1, 2 and 3 exams, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO TAKE THIS EXAM. The grade book is automatically set to take the highest scores out of these four exams.
  • YOUR FINAL GRADES WILL BE POSTED IN WEBADVISOR by NOON on FRIDAY, JULY 28TH. GOOD LUCK!
  • NOTE: THIS CALENDAR IS NOT SET IN STONE. It may be neccesary to revise certain dates due to weather conditions, internet outages and instructor illness, etc.  PLEASE CHECK YOUR ANNOUNCEMENTS and EMAIL FREQUENTLY for any updates. BECAUSE THIS IS AN ONLINE COURSE, it is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to CHECK THE AC EMAIL  and ANNOUNCEMENTS in the BLACKBOARD CLASS!  Check your email and announcements daily during the week and at least once during the weekend for reminders and updates.  ` Thanks, Dr. Harding

Additional Information

HOW TO REVIEW YOUR EXAMS & QUIZZES, and VIEW GRADES, INSTRUCTOR's FEEDBACK COMMENTS AND RUBRICS FOR YOUR LABS AND DISCUSSIONS:

  You can REVIEW YOUR EXAMS AND QUIZZES ONCE THE DUE DATE AND TIME HAS PASSED. In order to review your exams, click on MY GRADES TAB, go to the exam or quiz in the list that you want to review and Click on the exam.  It will show you what you missed.  In order to view your assignments, discussions, papers, and other work for YOUR INSTRUCTOR’s FEEDBACK, again, go to MY GRADES tab in the left hand menu, click.  Find the item you want to look at in the LIST (they are not necessarily in order...sorry!).  Click on that and you will see a place that says RUBRIC and COMMENTS.  Click on comments to see anything your instructor has said, and click on RUBRIC to view the rubric grading system and how your instructor graded you.  PLEASE...this instructor SPENDS A LOT OF TIME to give you CONSTRUCTIVE FEEDBACK...USE IT and make corrections accordingly! If you keep making the same error time and again, YOUR GRADES WILL CONTINUE TO GO DOWN!  I expect you to USE THE FEEDBACK I GIVE YOU TO BECOME A BETTER STUDENT and to IMPROVE IN YOUR SCHOOL WORK!  

 

Syllabus Created on:

05/29/17 4:24 PM

Last Edited on:

05/29/17 4:35 PM