Course: World History I (2014 2015) Instructor: William Bussert

Room: Library 202 Wbussert@oakwoodfriends.org

Course Description:
This course will examine the history and cultures of pre-modern peoples throughout the
world. In the fall term, we will look at human beginnings in Africa and then cover the rise of
civilizations in Egypt, Mesopotamia, China, and the Indus River valley. For the winter term,
we'll focus on the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. During the spring term, students will
explore and study the civilizations of West Africa as well as the pre-Columbian civilizations of
Mesoamerica, the Andes, and North America. Students will also write a research paper during
this spring trimester.

Course Goals:
1. To develop a more global and cross-cultural approach in looking at the variety of ways
humans have found of living in civilizations.

2. To understand the roots and development of our current civilization by looking at the
development of political, philosophical, and religious concepts.

3. To understand the role and influence of geography upon events and individuals.

4. To better understand history as a complex story of both continuity and change.

5. To develop the ability to read, interpret, and analyze both secondary and primary sources.

6. To answer the question, why do we study history?

Materials:
-World History from Glencoe.
-The Histories by Herodotus.
-The Epic of Gilgamesh
-A Journal or notebook only used for this history course.
-www.oakwoodhumanities.weebly.com/will-bussert

Grading:
Tests / papers / projects 30%

Homework & reading quizzes 30%

Class participation & class assignments 30%

Journal 10%
Homework:
Homework and reading will be assigned daily and will be due the next class period unless
indicated otherwise. Homework may be submitted late for reduced credit, but without
extenuating circumstances, it must be submitted no later than the next class period. Generally
speaking, written responses should be between a half page and a full typed page in length.

Participation:
Class participation includes the expectation that you maintain an open mind and treat your fellow
classmates with respect. Everyone is required to participate fully in discussions; however,
participation involves listening as well as talking. Ask questions if you do not understand
something or want further clarification and accept the fact that differences in opinion may arise
and may not be resolved in class.

Academic Honesty:
It is an expectation that all students will do their own work. Any incident of academic
dishonesty will be reported to the Head of the Upper School. Plagiarism is a severe violation of
the trust Oakwood Friends places in its students and those who do so risk failure in the course,
long-term suspension, or dismissal. If a question or concern over plagiarism arises, come speak
with me and ask for clarification.

Other Reminders:
No cell phones, for any reason.
If you miss a class it is your responsibility to be proactive and catch up on any material or
notes you may have missed. I will put handouts in your mailbox but it is up to you to find me if
you want further clarification on any of the material you missed.
You may not eat or bring food to class but drinks will be allowed. If drinks become a
distraction or you make a habit of not cleaning up your trash, this privilege will be revoked for
the entire class.
Computers or other electronic devices should not be used unless you have a waiver for
computer usage. There will be times, however, when computers/tablets will be allowed for
taking notes.