World Geography Syllabus 2012-13
Mr. Lenfest
I. World Geography is a course on global perspectives, basic concepts and the fundamental questions of geography. The course will focus on the impact of humans on the environment (and vice versa) and the Earth's surface. An additional focus on the cultures of different parts of the world will also be an emphasis.Students are encouraged to appreciate the diversity of the world’s cultures and view the world from different perspectives.Developing an open mind and critical thinking skills are important to success in the course.
II. Course goals include;having students view and appreciate World Geography from a new perspective, developing and honing key IB skills such as critical thinking, analytical writing, and an ability to argue their point of view with logic and reason during class discussions.
III. Expectations for students include the following:
A) Arriving to class on time and prepared to focus with text, note book and writing utensils.
B) Attentiveness during lectures, documentaries and class discussions.
C) The ability to maintain classroom decorum.
D) Bring to class intellectual curiosity and a desire to do well.
IV.Grading rubric will be based on a combination the following variables:
A) Tests and quizzes.
B) Debatable thesis, position papers and a term paper.
C) Participation during class.
D) Maintenance of history notebook.
V. Course materials and text. Students should have a spiral notebook for recording notes. The Five Star notebooks are perhaps the best since they also include pockets for handouts. The course text isWorld Geography and Cultures Student Edition © 2012 ISBN: 9780078799952and will be available through the school online bookstore or at other online sources
VI. Contact information. Students are encouraged to contact me with any questions they might have regarding the course or about the homework at rlenfest@newmanboston.org