A written statement in which you explain by concrete, specific examples how you have earned the following points:

10 = regular attendance in class and regularly ready for class--have done the readings, participated in class discussions, been supportive of colleagues as they ask and answer questions, served as a guide for readings, etc. List the topics for which you have been a guide.

10 = how you have used the topics, texts, and activities outside the classroom--conversations, news reports, related it to other classes, other activities, etc.

Award yourself the points-- 20 total possible.

Focus on one of the following learnng objectives and describe how you have achieved it.

Learning Objectives:

A. Historical Knowledge

Students will demonstrate a knowledge of basic facts, events -- and, especially, of significant questions and major themes in the history of the American West to 1900

Students will explain the West as a region.

Students will describe the role of the federal government in the region

Students will describe the West as an idea in American culture and in the popular imagination.

Students will describe the struggle for land resources, identity, and power which have characterized the West.

B. Historical Thinking

Students will use a historical perspective by which to understand present issues in the American West.

Students will articulate the diverse perspectives of westerners.

Students will consider a wide variety of historical sources and learn about how historians go about "recovering the past."

C. Historical Skills

Students will hone their skills in reading, thinking, writing. Students will learn how to learn, how to reflect on their own learning.

Students will be able to weigh conflicting claims by employing reason and rules of evidence to establish the reliability of any claim or statement.