Current Global Issues

 

Course Overview

To follow is a brief description of the classroom expectations, learning strategies, and assessment for the Current Global Issues Course.

This is Current Global Issues

This is a unique course rooted in the notion that all students stand to benefit from knowing more about the world around them. However, the course is about more than global issues: it asks students to grapple with complex issues, to analyze information from multiple points of view, to communicate and collaborate effectively, and to create authentic products to share with the world. This may be the intent but is it the result?

Students were asked to share what they learned about the world, what they learned about themselves, and what they wanted to learn more about as a result of this course. Here’s what they said.

Class Expectations

What will students learn in this course?

In Current Global Issues, students learn about issues that are relevant in today’s world including the plight of refugees, the world economy, human rights, and more. Student will gain a better understanding of the world, the experiences of its people, and the skills to continue learning long after this course has ended. For a pdf version of the here.

What will students need for class each day?

Students must bring their binder with a section dedicated to Current Global Issues, a charged Chromebook, as well as pencils, pens, and a highlighter to class each day. In addition, they need to be open-minded, inquisitive, hard-working, and compassionate toward the lives of people from around the world.

What are the classroom expectations?

Students are expected to be on time, prepared, and ready to learn. Their behavior should be guided by the three principles of the Warrior Way. In addition, they must be willing to collaborate, communicate, listen, problem-solve and think critically.

How will students learn?

Students will learn by reading and analyzing written and visual information, considering and discussing issues from multiple points of view, and effectively collaborating and communicating with others. In addition, students will create a wide range of products to share with the world including infographics, podcasts, presentations, and more. Finally, students will document and reflect on their learning through the creation of a digital portfolio.

How will students be assessed?

Course assignments will range from 10 to 100 points, depending on the depth and breadth of the task.  Rubrics will be given for all projects in order to inform and assess student work.  Homework as well as formal assessments like quizzes and tests will be rare.  When administered, retakes will be encouraged so long as they are completed prior to the end of the marking period.

How can I monitor my student’s progress?

All grades will be available on SchoolTool.  Grades will be updated once a week, usually more frequently, to maximize communication. All homework assignments will be listed on the Team 5 & Team 6 Google Calendar. All documents for student assignments and projects can be found on Google Classroom.   Students should check the Stream and Classwork sections for digital assignments, announcements, class notes, and helpful links.