United States History I Syllabus for 2024-2025
Return to Syllabus List

Instructor Information

Course Information

AI Statement

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Gemini) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Generative Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

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 Enrollment Center, Suite 700. 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:

Tutoring for Success applies to any student whose overall performance in the course falls below 75%. The instructor will create the task in the Student Engagement Portal (Watermark) to direct the student to the appropriate tutoring service, which may be faculty- or SI-led, discipline-specific, and/or general. The tutoring service assigned, the due date for when the tutoring must be completed, and the amount of tutoring required are at the discretion of the instructor. Additionally, the task will alert the student’s success team. Students who do not fulfill the assigned tutoring task may be subject to program- and course-specific penalties that could result in a grade reduction and/or in not being allowed to progress in the course until the tutoring requirement has been satisfied.

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 course must complete all steps indicated on the Academic Withdrawal Request form by the course withdrawal deadline.

NOTE: Students who are 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. This withdrawal limitation does not include dual credit or developmental classes (Senate Bill 1231 Rule 4.10.) For more information on Drop and Withdrawal Policies, please visit the Registrar's Office Web site.

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

HIST-1301-004 United States History I

Prerequisites

Course Description

A survey of the social, political, economic, cultural and intellectual history of the United States from the pre-Columbian era to the Civil War/Reconstruction period. United States History I includes the study of pre-Columbian, colonial, revolutionary, early national, slavery and sectionalism, and the Civil War/Reconstruction eras. Themes that may be addressed in United States History I include: American settlement and diversity, American culture, religion, civil and human rights, technological change, economic change, immigration and migration, and creation of the federal government.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

Occupational License Disclaimer

Notice to Students enrolled in an educational program for preparation of issuance of certain occupational licenses:

Students enrolled in an educational program in preparation for obtaining certain occupational licenses are potentially ineligible for such license if the student has been convicted of an offense. For further information, please contact:

Melodie Graves
Justice Involved Advocate
Student Service Center 117
mgraves24@actx.edu
806-371-5995
Make appointment at https://melodiegraves.youcanbook.me

You can also contact the Legal Clinic, or the faculty member in charge of the educational program that you seek to enroll in. The further information you will receive will include notification to you of your right to request a criminal history evaluation letter from the licensing authority in order to clarify your particular situation.

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Shi. America: The Essential Learning Edition, VOL I- With Access, Third Edition. W.W. Norton & Company, 2022. ISBN: 0393542793 

This text is required; you cannot pass this class without this required text. If you have already purchased a used book, you will need to purchase access to online tools that accompany this book (an in-app purchase).

Supplies

Access to a reliable desktop or laptop computer, reliable internet connection, and online textbook are required. Also bring a notebook, pencil, and pen to class. 

Student Performance

This is an on-campus, 6-week lecture course. It is fast-paced! To be successful, you will need to be familiar with the syllabus and course schedule and follow these carefully. You must have full access to a working computer (desktop or laptop) and to the internet. You will not be able to complete coursework using your smartphone, since the Blackboard functions you will be using are not reliable through smartphone technology.

Attend class regularly and communicate with me if you must miss a class or if you need to leave class early.

Students 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

Course and Contact Information:

Class Time:        Monday through Thursday, 11:30 AM- 1:20 PM in Dutton Hall 201       

Email:                Utilize the course message function in Blackboard only.

Course Overview

This is a 6-week survey course in American History covering the Pre-Columbian world to  to 1877. As part of learning about these topics, you will also learn how to think critically about historical events, evaluate primary and secondary sources, compare viewpoints, and share your analyses of these events and materials through written and verbal forms.

You must be prepared to complete coursework online, work with others in a team setting in class, and be a self-starter to be successful. You must be committed to completing readings and other assignments in a timely manner, and come to class prepared to participate in discussing historical events as outlined in the course schedule.

All students must attend class in order to achieve a passing grade. If you are having challenges with class attendance, please contact me immediately.

As a student in this class, you can expect me to be prepared to teach you each day, and to answer your questions about the topics we discuss. I will respond to emails and other communications within 24 hours on weekdays, and will work to help you achieve the course objectives in this class.

Administrative Drop Policy

 Administrative Drop Policy: Amarillo College attendance policy includes a provision to automatically drop students who do not attend class and complete at least one meaningful assignment during the first week of class. For this class, you must complete an assignment and attend class during the first three days of the course. Make sure you have fulfilled these requirements.  

Course Objectives

Throughout this course, students will:

1. Analyze the effects of historical, social, political, economic, cultural, and global forces on this period of United States history.
2. Assess and articulate how events in modern American history helped shape and were shaped by the character of its citizens.
3. Acquire and practice skills in critical thinking through reading, source analysis, listening, discussion, collaboration, and writing.
4. Create an argument through the use of historical evidence.
5. Analyze and interpret primary and secondary sources.

Classroom Conduct

            Come to class prepared to learn and contribute each day. Complete assigned material each week. Bring a notebook, pencil or pen, and your book (laptops are acceptable; your ebook is accessible using other devices as well).

Acceptable student behavior is explained in the Student Handbook, and is listed under the heading: “Student Conduct & Responsibilities” beginning on page 16 and continuing through page 17. Consequences for violations of the Code immediately follow. There is also an explanation of expectations of student behavior in this section. It is your responsibility to know and abide by this code of conduct while a student at Amarillo College.

I expect you to show respect for every individual in the classroom. Harassing or disrespecting others on any basis is inappropriate. Be mindful and respectful of one another, and use this opportunity to learn more about other's viewpoints.

Cell phone use including texting during class is rude and will harm your participation grade. If you have a situation that requires you to take a call during class, let me know before class starts. When you receive such a call, quietly step out of class to take it.

There will be class activities during which you will be free to use your own technology such as smart phones. Otherwise, turn your cell phones off before class begins. You must also remove headphones as soon as you enter the classroom. It is rude and disruptive to the learning environment to wear them during class.

College expectations, personal and work pressures, and unexpected events in life can be challenging. There is help available for anyone dealing with depression, grief, loss, anxiety, addiction, etc. Amarillo College Social Services can help. Their contact number is 806-371-5439. Services are professional and confidential. Follow this link to view these services: https://www.actx.edu/socialservices/ .

Academic Honesty

Honesty is fundamental to good character, and I expect you to follow high standards of academic integrity. This may be your first time in college, and specific expectations may not be clear to you. Below, see the basic standards listed more clearly.

Amarillo College English and Cultural Studies Department

Plagiarism, Collusion, and Cheating Policy

The English and Cultural Studies Department takes academic integrity seriously.  Scholastic dishonesty, punishable as prescribed by Board policies, shall include, but not be limited to plagiarism, collusion, and cheating on a test or written assignment.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined as “using exact words from any outside source without using quotation marks or properly citing them; paraphrasing words from any outside source without citing them; or using research from any outside source without citing it.”

Self-Plagiarism

Self-plagiarism is defined as turning in your own previous work to meet a current assignment.  This policy will be amended at the discretion of each individual instructor. 

Collusion

Collusion is defined as “the unauthorized collaboration with another person or by any other means, including artificial intelligence (AI) and computer translators, in preparing  work for fulfillment of course requirements.” Using AI like (ChatGPT or Google Bard) to create a document is considered colluding. The use of Artificial Intelligence on specific assignments is at the discretion of the instructor.

Cheating

“Cheating on a test” shall include:

1. Copying from another student’s test paper.
2. Using test materials not authorized by the person administering the test.
3. Collaborating with or seeking aid from another student during a test without permission from the test administrator.
4. Knowingly using, buying, selling, stealing, or soliciting, in whole or in part, the contents of a pending test.
5. The unauthorized transporting or removal, in whole or in part, of the contents of the pending test.
6. Substituting for another student, or permitting another student to substitute for one’s self, to take a test.
7. Bribing another person to obtain a pending test or information about a pending test.

Statement of Consequences

If you plagiarize, cheat, or collude, you will face consequences. Ignorance of the policy is not an excuse. Any work produced in part or in whole through plagiarism, collusion, or cheating may receive a penalty up to and including a zero for the assignment.  After assigning a zero, a subsequent infraction will result in a meeting the head of the Department and possible expulsion from the class. Another incident will result in a referral to the Vice President of Enrollment Management.

Grading Criteria

Course Work

I will list all assignments on the course schedule, weekly checklists, or announce them in class. Review the checklists and schedule for dates and assignment requirements. You are responsible for completing these in a timely manner. If you have questions about the requirements or are unsure about how to complete the work, consult the schedule, weekly checklists, and assignment instructions first. If you still need help, contact me at least two days before the assignment is due and I will be glad to assist you.

You will use Blackboard for the following functions:

• Communicating with your instructor and classmates
• Taking exams
• Accessing course content including your E-book, InQuizitive, Thinking Like an Historian Modules, study aids, and other materials
• Completing other coursework as assigned
• Viewing grades

Readings & InQuizitive Assignments

Weekly readings will include material from Shi. America: The Essential Learning Edition, VOL I- With Access, Third Edition. W.W. Norton & Company, 2022. ISBN:  ISBN: 0393542793. You will complete two to three chapters of reading each week. Come to class prepared to comment on what you have read. For each chapter, you will also complete InQuizitive assignments. The average score from reading and InQuizitive assignments will count for a total of 15% of your final grade.

If you have any difficulty acquiring the book or completing your readings, let me know immediately.

Note: If you are unable to purchase your book this week, as an invited member of this course you can select temporary access until you are able to purchase your book (up to 14 days). This means you can begin your readings and assignments right away, even if you have not purchased your book.

Thinking Like an Historian

Skills in analysis, writing, and active listening are valuable for all fields and are part of earning a quality education. In History, they are particularly valuable as you gain a better understanding of our past. In this class, you will learn and apply some of the basic skills through completing Thinking Like an Historian modules. Thinking Like an Historian modules are worth 15% of your overall grade.

 Exams

You will have a 3 exams. They will include multiple choice, essay, true/false, matching, fill in-the blank, short answer questions, and essays. I will provide you with a review sheet before each exam. Questions are from the book, assigned source materials, quizzes, class activities, and lectures. Exams are worth 30% of your final grade.

Attendance, Discussions, In-Class Activities

Attendance is directly connected to your success; each day that you are present, participating, and completing in-class projects, you will earn attendance points. Students may be divided into teams for discussions, activities, and study. Full participation in these groups is necessary for you to be successful in the class, and points will be assessed for each activity. There will also be some short recorded lectures or films for you to watch on your own outside of class. Responses to these are included in this category. Attendance and assignments from this category are worth 20% of your final grade.

 Administrative Drop Policy: Amarillo College attendance policy includes a provision to automatically drop students who do not attend class and complete at least one meaningful assignment during the first week of class. For this class, you must complete an assignment and attend class during the first three days of the course. Make sure you have fulfilled these requirements.  

Discussions 

Discussions assignments will focus on major topics and analytical skills. Some of these formal discussions will take place in class, while others will be available in Blackboard. With each discussion, you will have opportunities to work with other students, explore topics in greater detail, and develop critical thinking skills. Assignments in this category are worth 20% of your final grade.

Extra Credit

Students may complete extra credit throughout the semester. You may earn up to 25 points. Extra credit opportunities will be announced in class or in Blackboard.

Grading

Readings and InQuizitive: 15%

Thinking Like an Historian Modules: 15%

Exams: 30%

Attendance, Lecture Responses, In-Class Activities: 20%

Discussions: 20%

Grade Breakdown:

A: 90%-100%

B: 80%-89%

C: 70%-79%

D: 60%-69%

F: 59% and below

Attendance

Attendance is vital to your success in this class and is required. There are times when absences cannot be avoided due to a variety of reasons including illness, emergencies, or travel for educational purposes. If this occurs, contact me immediately.  If you must miss class due to college activities or business, have your coach, director, or sponsor provide notice of the absence in advance of the activity. Such absences are excused if you notify me in advance.   

Calendar

Additional Information

If you feel you are not doing as well as you had expected in this course, please come speak to me about your concerns. I will be glad to help you overcome the difficulties you are having.