Comparative Cultures and Geography - Classroom Guidelines and Policies
Course Description
This course teaches students how geography and culture have shaped, and continue to shape, our lives. Emphasis is placed on the main themes of geography and on those factors that develop cultures: history, art, religion, music, family patterns, ethnicity, race, and technology.
Materials
A one-inch wide three-ring binder with paper, and pens/pencils — bring these to class everyday.
Class Expectations
Always treat fellow students and teachers with respect and courtesy. This means no fighting, cursing, name-calling, or put-downs. Respect the personal space and property of others. This rule is vital to having an open, inviting, and safe atmosphere where everyone can ask questions and express his or her opinion without criticism.
Be in your seat and prepared to work when the bell rings. If you are just coming in the classroom when the bell rings, you are late. Being prepared means having all your materials (notebook, pencils, etc.) and your homework with you. If you have to go get your binder and/or homework after class starts, it will result in a tardy.
Avoid interruptions and distracting behavior during class time. Please raise your hand and wait to be called on before speaking out in class. Distracting behavior includes off-topic conversations and getting out of your seat unnecessarily.
Participate, stay focused and on-task. This means you should do all in-class activities and assignments, and participate in discussions. If you don’t understand what to do, raise your hand and ask for help – there is no such thing as a stupid question. Working on assignments for other classes is not on-task behavior and not acceptable – please do it on your own time.
A hall pass is required to leave the room during class time. If you need to go to the bathroom or get a drink of water, ask the teacher for a hall pass. Only one hall pass will be given at a time. If the teacher is in the middle of a lecture or explanation, please wait to ask for a pass. If you ask to leave the room too many times, or take too long outside of class, you may lose the privilege in the future.
Cell Phones/Music Players
Please turn off and put away cell phones and other electronic devices while in class. If I see or hear them, they will be confiscated and returned after school.
Cheating/Plagiarism
Students who cheat on an assignment or test, or who plagiarize will receive a zero for that assignment/test. Repeated cheating will result in failing the class. Don’t even think of it!
Late Work Policy
Missed assignments or tests resulting from unexcused absences will result in zero credit. For excused absences, previously assigned work is due when you return. For work assigned during an excused absence, you will have the same time to complete it as your classmates who were present. Make-up tests must be completed within a week of you return.
Participation Points
Everyone will have the chance to receive 3 points per class for participation. These count towards your total grade and are not extra credit. You can lose these points through absences or tardies (even excused), not working on in-class assignments (including opening board work), disruptive behavior, etc. If you are seriously ill, you may be able to make up participation points with a doctor’s note (not just a note from home).
Special Situations
For unexpected problems or special circumstances, please make time to speak with me before or after class, and we’ll work to resolve the situation together. If you think you are being treated unfairly, please see me to discuss the situation. Don’t be afraid to express your opinions, calmly of course.
Grades
Grades are based on points earned during the semester. Points are earned from tests and quizzes, class work, homework, special projects, and the final exam. There will be opportunities during the semester to earn extra-credit points, which will count towards you grade.
Grades are based on a scale:
A = 100-90% (of total possible points)
B = 89-80%
C = 79-70%
D = 69-60%
F = Below 60%
Contact Information
Email: ebahm@cv.k12.ca.us
Voicemail: (510) 537-5910 ext. 3214
I have read and understand the above guidelines for this course, and I agree to abide by these policies.
Student Signature:
Parent/Guardian Signature: