Can I listen to music while I work?
Yes, that is fine. However, I have a couple stipulations. First, it shouldn't be loud enough for anyone but you to hear. Second, the music is there to help you focus so you should have both buds in (unless we are doing class discussion). Third, you should have a song list that you can start and then forget about. You should not go back and have to spend time selecting the next song. Create a playlist and let it go. Don't put songs on it you don't want to listen to. You cannot listen to music while taking quizzes/tests or while working on activities that require group work.
What happens if I need to check my phone during class?
If you need to keep up with something going on outside of here (example: a family member is in the hospital), then please let me know ahead of time (before class starts). If you do not, then your phone will go to the office (per the student handbook) and you can get it back at the end of the day.
Why do I have a warning on JMC saying that I am missing scores?
Because of the way grades are put into the grade book, JMC will always think that there are missing scores until the very end of the semester. You are never missing anything in this class, so you shouldn't need to check with me about missing scores. If you miss a class block, you will need to check in about the topics you weren't there for.
Why does JMC have a "Reassessment" column with a black box in it?
If any student in the class does a reassessment, I have to put it into the grade book for everyone. That means that even if you choose not to do one (or you don't need to), you will still have a block there. If it is a black box that means it is not affecting your grade at all.
What kinds of things do I need for class?
You'll need to bring an iPad every day. If you are planning on doing STEM (science, tech, engineering, or mathematics) related fields in college, it would be a good idea to buy a TI-83 Plus or TI-84 (both of which are OK to use on the ACT) and get used to the calculator now. We generally take notes on Notability, but if you prefer to take notes on paper, then you'll want to bring either a notebook or loose leaf paper and a 3-ring binder. Lastly, bring a pencil on quiz days at the minimum. On other days, you can bring a stylus if you want something to help write on the iPad (although it is not required).