Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria NVWINDJ@nvcc.edu.
Description: History 101 examines some of
the major topics and themes that helped shape the development of the Ancient,
Medieval and Early Modern eras. Our course will survey some of the political,
social and economic origins and developments especially within the European,
African, Asiatic and American theaters and interactions which gave rise
to the Modern Western World.
Objectives: This course is designed to (1)
assist students in improving their skills in reading comprehension, critical
thinking, logical reasoning, sharp clarifying, as well as listening, articulating,
summarizing and synthesizing; (2) stimulate dialogue and enhance knowledge
of bibliographical sources; (3) acquaint students with the tools for analyzing
the masses, personalities and events as well as their effect on the functioning
of society; (4) help students understand continuity and change in historical
development; (5) teach students to articulate the interrelatedness of historical
themes to other disciplines especially in the Social Sciences, Humanities,
Natural Sciences and Fine Arts; and (6) highlight the significant contributions
of the world’s cultures and civilizations.
Expectations: All students are expected and
required to be present and on time at each class session! If a student
accumulates more than three (3) unexcused absences the student may lose
a grade rank and be advised to consider withdrawing from the course since
absences lead to poor or unsatisfactory performance here. Three tardies
(if you arrive after attendance is taken or the beginning of the class
presentation) may be equivalent to one absence. All assignments are to
be submitted on time in order to receive full credit.
Grading: Examinations 2-3 and 1 Book Review = 1/3 A = 90-100%
Research Paper B = 80-89
Comprehensive Final Examination C = 70-79
D = 60-69
F = Below 60
Extra Credit assignments, only designated by me,
may be offered to the entire class or to Honors Program students.
TEXTS: Our main text will be Western Civilization
Volume I by Jackson J. Spielvogel .
Book Review: You are required to complete
a critical review of a scholarly book on a topic within the course outline.
An instructional guide will be provided during the first few weeks of the
semester. The review is due on:
Term Paper: All students are required to complete
a 7-10 page research paper on any historical topic within the course parameters
which must be typed, double spaced and cited properly (Turabian Format).
At least 3 scholarly sources are to be used, including relevant books and
journal articles. The term paper will be due in class on:
Windham Syllabus 101 Continued: Our Course Outline
IV. "It’s Greek To Me"
VIII. The High Middle Ages: 1200-1500