Mr. Barna's Web Page

                                   -     American Cultures III

                                   -    American Cultures III (Honors)

                                   -     A.P. European History

Mr. Barna is also the moderator for the Salisbury High School Debate Team, which has posted Lehigh Valley Interscholastic Debate Association championships in 2000 and 2001.

        Mr. Barna is a graduate of Parkland High School and Ursinus College. At Ursinus,  he majored in History with a minor in Political Science. He has been married to his wife, Melissa, since 1989 and has three children: Joshua, Jared, and Janelle.

American Cultures III (Honors)

     This course mirrors the American Cultures III course described above with several key differences.  First, students study more primary source documents and read several works of supplemental reading throughout the year, including such works as Hiroshima and All The President's Men.  Second, students are expected to engage in higher level thinking through the analysis of historical events and critical writing, including essays, research papers, critical thinking activities, and creative reports.  Third, students are expected to participate actively in the classroom and are held accountable for the level and quality of this participation.

        Each year students participate in a number of activities that vary from the regular routine and add greatly to the curriculum of study.  In the fall, students in the sophomore classes travel to Washington, D.C. to visit the The National Holocaust Museum as well as other sites in the nation's capital.  This day trip is filled with valuable experiences, and is designed to help students relate to many of the subjects to be covered throughout the year.  Other field trips are arranged as opportunities arise and fit into the units of study.

        Several guest speakers are brought into the classroom to supplement the course instruction throughout the year.  A panel of Vietnam War era veterans visit the classroom every year to share their experiences with students.  Other guest speakers have included congressmen, veterans, lawyers, historians as well as some parents and grandparents of students who have had experiences that relate to topics covered over the course of the year.

        Student averages are computed on a percentage basis by adding up the student's points and dividing by the total points possible in any given marking period.  All major tests will be announced at least three days in advanced.  Any student absent for a test, quiz or due date of graded assignment will have one day for each day out to make up the grade. All late papers will be subject to a letter grade equivalent deduction from the student's grade for each day tardy.  Students in need of additional study and review can make arrangements with me for a mutually convenient time.

        Students are expected to conduct themselves in a mature and responsible manner at all times and to follow basic rules of classroom etiquette.  There are two fundamental rules in the classroom; they are to listen and respect.  Students are to be respectful and considerate of the teacher, the school, and each other in order to facilitate the learning process of the class.  All school rules and policies will be strictly enforced.