Introduction to Sociology Mr. Jason Schlotman jschlotman@moeller.org “Do, or do not – there is no try”
Introduction to Sociology is a one semester course designed to introduce the student to the study of human behavior in the group context. The course seeks to discover regularities and order in social behavior, and to express these patterns as theoretical generalizations applying to a wide range of such behavior. This course includes a substantial term paper or equivalent project.
Communication Primary communication is done via NetMoeller. All missed assignments, upcoming assignments, and current grade will be posted there in a timely manner. The instructor is best reached by e-mail, and can usually get back to you quickly during school hours. Students are encouraged to meet with the instructor during the M-block, after school, or during Office Hours (to be determined) if they are struggling or have questions or need clarifications. It is the student’s responsibility to initiate this contact.
Units of Study
The origins of sociology Cultural variation and Cultural Relativism Personality Development Sociobiology Collective Behavior Education and Religion Meme Theory
Grading Policy: o ~60% of your grade will come from test, quizzes, and exams. The frequency of such written evaluation will vary per class. However, students are expected to keep up with the readings in the associated book or other reading supplements as assigned in class. o ~40% of your grade will come from homework and class participation, and will vary in frequency and time commitment. o Any assignment missed due to an excused absence must be turned in on the first day back to school. Any work not made up on time will receive a zero for that assignment. Exception will be made for extended illness if arrangements are made will the instructor. o Grades are not “weighted”, and are determined by straight points o Otherwise, late work will be accepted for 48 hours after the due date for a maximum of 50% credit, at the instructor’s discretion. Otherwise, no late work will be accepted for credit! o The instructor reserves the right to demand that a student serve some time in detention if that student fails to turn in assignments or violates classroom policy in any way. Chronic violations will result in a blue slip. Units of Study 1. Comparative Government/ U.S. government in relation to global politics 2. Principles and origins of U.S. Government 3. Political Participation 4. Demographics and Voting Blocks 5. The Legislative Branch 6. The Executive Branch 7. The Judicial Branch
8. State and Local Governments Classroom Policy o The instructor reserves the right to demand that a student serve some time in detention if that student fails to turn in assignments or violates classroom policy in any way. Chronic violations will result in a “blue slip.� o Students are expected to be familiar with and abide by all classroom policies outlined in the Moeller Student Handbook. For example: o Remember, NO FOOD, DRINKS, OR GUM are allowed in the classroom. Exceptions are made for water only during warmer months. o Hoodies are not permitted during school hours o No cell phone usage during class time o Treat others with respect in word and deed Academic Violations Issues of academic integrity violation are taken very seriously. The first offense will result in a zero for the assignment/assessment involved, a phone call home, and being placed on Step One, Step Two, or Step Three by the Dean of Academics.
I have read the course syllabus, and understand that these are the policies and expectations for the Sociology course. ______________________________________________ Signature
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______________________________________________ Parent or Guardian Signature
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