Criminal Justice Course Syllabus

Course Overview
In this course, we will examine society’s response to crime and the social science of criminology. Our primary focus will be placed on criminal justice in the United States, especially urban America, and how we balance the rights of individuals with the need to maintain public order. We will consider the development of the criminal justice system while framing crime in the context of our culture. Students will evaluate our current system and propose ways to shape the system to meet the needs of our society.

Through class discussions, research, readings, and various statistical analyses, we will explore some of the key traditional elements of the criminal justice system, including the courts, police, and corrections. We will attempt to answer tough questions, such as; Why is criminal justice carried out in the current manner? Are there better ways for Americans to prevent or respond to crime? How should we treat juvenile offenders?

This course is designed for students to evaluate social patterns and how an individual’s background impacts the criminal justice process. Indeed, a primary goal for this course also is the appreciation of diversity and recognition of the significance that diversity has on our nation in the new millennium. While looking at the root causes of crime, we will challenge each other to develop strategies for our criminal justice system as the face of America is constantly changing.

Grading Policy
Your final grade for this course will be determined based on the following formula:

Assignments and overall grades will be based on a points system. Prior to each assignment, you will know the total available points. The grade will be based on the following calculation: Total Points Earned ÷ Total Possible Points

¹For other assignments, such as in-class work, research in the library, or special projects, you will be made aware of the possible points when the assignment begins.

Homework & Assignments
Homework is an important part of this course. The homework is meant to enhance our work in the classroom. Completing the homework will help you understand the subject matter and, hopefully, make it more interesting. You will be better prepared for class discussions, other assignments, and tests or quizzes. Likewise, you will have the opportunity to participate in many activities. These activities will range from group presentations to individual projects. I hope that the assignments will be engaging and enable you to demonstrate your expertise in the field of modern world history. Successfully completing and handing-in all of the homework and assignments will improve your grade for the course.

1. Homework/assignments are due at the beginning of class or when collected.

2. Late homework/assignments will not be accepted unless you have an excused absence.

3. You are responsible for obtaining homework/assignments if you are absent.

4. If you are identified on the attendance sheet as "absent unexcused" you may not make-up the missed work. This includes test, quizzes, projects, and homework. In-house suspension is considered an unexcused absence.

Classroom Contribution -- Sliding Scale
Classroom contribution will be included as 10% of each quarterly grade. If your absence from class is unexcused or if you are tardy unexcused, your grade will be negatively impacted.

Grade	Criteria
A (100%)	Excellent participation in class discussions, often asks thought provoking questions, willingly works with other students during classroom activities, excellent attitude, and/or shows extensive effort towards creating a positive atmosphere in the classroom.
B (85%)	Substantial participation in class discussions, usually works well with other students during classroom activities, excellent attitude, and/or shows substantial effort towards creating a positive classroom atmosphere.
C (75%)	Acceptable participation in class discussions, sometimes works well with other students during classroom activities, and/or meets some expectations with attitude and contribution to the classroom environment.
D (68%)	Rarely or never participates in class discussions, negative attitude, and/or is disruptive in class.
F (25%)	Rarely or never participates in class discussions, is disruptive in class, does not engage in group projects, and/or is not part of the "class environment."

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Attendance
Attendance and classroom contribution are important aspects of the course. Participating in class advances your knowledge of the material and enables other students to learn from you. Class sessions are also meant to supplement homework and individual research rather than replace or repeat your readings.

In accordance with the attendance policy in the Ipswich High School 2011-2012 Student-Parent Handbook, you will not receive credit if you accumulate more than FIVE absences (excused, unexcused, or voluntary) during the course. Refer to the Handbook for detailed information about the IHS attendance policy. If you have questions or are concerned about attendance, please see me.

An important note about field trips

Field trips are valuable components of a course curriculum. Throughout the quarter, it may be necessary for you to miss our class session(s) to attend field trips. Please note that you are responsible for notifying me AT LEAST TWO DAYS IN ADVANCE OF A FIELD TRIP if you are going to be absent. Also, if you are working on a group project you are responsible for notifying your team members that you will be absent.

If you fail to provide prior notification (AT LEAST TWO SCHOOL DAYS) of a field trip and are absent for a presentation or other assignment, you will receive a zero for the assignment or project.

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Honors Contract
Students may take Criminal Justice for honors credit by signing an Honors Contract. Students who participate in an honors contract should:

If you are interested in taking the course for honors credit, please note the following deadlines: