Lecture 1 Introduction Part 1

History 17B: United States History from Reconstruction to Present

Chapter 1: Introduction

Welcome to History 17B, covering history up to possibly the election of George W. Bush.

Required Textbooks

  • American Yawp

  • A People's History of the United States

Chapter 2: Attention to Lectures

It is important to read the syllabus to understand course objectives and student learning outcomes. Grading is based on a point system that includes midterm exams, final exams, quizzes, discussions, and writing assignments. Timely submission is crucial for achieving a good grade. All assessments are open book and open notes, and students are expected to demonstrate an understanding of the readings and lectures.

Plagiarism is strictly prohibited and is viewed as theft of intellectual property. This includes using AI-generated content or submitting work not done independently. Accidental plagiarism may result from forgetting citations; however, submitting unoriginal work is unacceptable.

Chapter 3: Have a Class

If plagiarism is suspected, students must meet with the instructor to discuss the matter, which can be uncomfortable. Late work may be submitted with points deducted if it is more than two weeks overdue. Valid reasons for late submissions should be communicated in advance. Collaboration is encouraged among students, and forming study groups or online communities (e.g., Discord) can be helpful. Taking notes during lectures is essential; starting with key terms can guide what should be recorded. It is important to connect lecture content with the readings, as it is common to feel overwhelmed with the material.

Chapter 4: Conclusion

The information shared in this course is crucial for effective navigation and comprehension of the readings. Some stress reduction tips include focusing on terms and key points rather than trying to retain everything verbatim. Notes are for personal use and are not required to be submitted, but taking them is highly encouraged. The instructor emphasizes support and is ready to assist students in preparing for the next lecture.


Summary

This course, History 17B, engages students with United States history from the Reconstruction era to the present, up to the election of George W. Bush. Effective course navigation involves understanding grading criteria, the importance of timely submissions, and the need to avoid plagiarism. Students are encouraged to take notes, collaborate with peers, and engage actively with the course materials to alleviate feelings of overwhelm. Continuous communication with the instructor is key to success throughout the course.

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