HIS 101 African History to 1875 Fall 2009
		What's New? 11/15: Final exam date posted; Fri. Dec. 18, 1-3pm
Emergency? Call 610-436-3311

CONTEXT AND GOALS: This course examines how the history of Africa was shaped by geography, human development and international relations. It teaches students to develop critical thinking skills, to communicate ideas in writing and class discussion, and to make informed value decisions and ethical choices. Successful students will understand African history as a perspective on world history rather than as an isolated case.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS: Read assignments before class and prepare comments and/or questions, attend class to discuss assignments, and pass three essay examinations and one map test.

GRADING: First and second essay exams (20% each), map test (20%), class participation (10%), third essay exam (30% each). Perfect attendance will improve a borderline final grade.

TEXTBOOK: Toyin Falola, editor, Africa, vol. 1. African History Before 1885 (Durham, NC: Carolina Academic Press, 2000 & 2003). ISBN 0-89089-768-9. Other materials (including study aids) are available at http://courses.wcupa.edu/jones/his311.htm

ATTENDANCE: An excused absence is one for which you can provide a valid written excuse concerning a medical condition, legal proceeding, university-sanctioned event or death of an immediate family member (i.e. parent, sibling or child). All other absences are unexcused. You are entitled to a naximum of nine unexcused absences without penalty, but each additional absence will reduce your final grade by 1/3 of a letter. NOTE: If you face an extraordinary circumstance that merits special consideration, discuss it with your professor before you are absent. Requests made after an unexcused absence will not be considered.

CHEATING/PLAGIARISM: Cheating is any act that "defrauds, deceives or employs trickery" in order to obtain credit for work which has not been completed. Plagiarization is the act of "passing off the ideas of another as one's own work." Anyone who cheats or plagiarizes will receive a zero (i.e. a grade much lower than F) for that examination or assignment. A second offense will result in a final grade of F and referral to the University's judicial system.

DISABILITIES: We at West Chester University wish to make accomodations for persons with disabilities. Please make your needs known by contacting the professor and/or the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (located in 223 Lawrence Center) at 610-436-2564. Sufficient notice is needed in order to make the accommodations possible. University desires to comply with the ADA of 1990 by making accommodations

DISCRIMINATION: West Chester University prohibits discrimination, including sexual harassment, of any individual based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, age, religious creed, disability or veteran status. This course incorporates the University's commitment to an environment free of discrimunation. Any individual having suggestions, problems, complaints or grievances with regard to equal opportunity or affirmative action is encouraged to contact the Director of Social Equity at ext. 2433.

SUBSTANCE USE/ABUSE: West Chester University is committed to improving retention, graduation and time-to-degree rates by assisting students during key transitional periods in their academic careers. Because the professor believes that alcohol and drug issues can compromise student success, he has participated in the "Partners in Prevention" training program to learn how to recognize addiction and provide referrals to assistance. If you wish to talk about any of this -- in strictest confidence -- please contact the professor outside of class.

Visit Jim Jones' other course web sites at courses.wcupa.edu/jones .