2018-19 Class Procedures

Welcome to Mr. Ringler’s GT-PreAP ILA

• For a more comprehensive explanation of rules and procedures please access the FISD Middle School Handbook or the Roach Handbook Addendum.

Grade Weights

• Minor grades 40%
• Major Grades 60%

Late Work

• Major grades – 15 points for each day late – more than 5 days late = zero
• Minor grades – 1-2 days late maximum grade of 70; 3 days late = zero

Tutoring

• A.M. -- 7:55-8:20 -- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
• P.M. -- 3:45-4:10 -- Monday and Tuesday

Extra credit

• I am in the business of creating independent learners. I ritually encourage exploration of class topics and reward these efforts.
• In the situation where poor performance is an issue, showing a clear understanding of learning weaknesses is a prerequisite for extra credit.
• Students should discuss extra credit with me during tutoring.

Homework

• GT assignments are started in class where progress can be monitored.
• With good use of class time, homework will be minimal.
• With or without actual homework, students should make it a daily habit to review their learning; the class moves at a fast pace and falling behind can be catastrophic.
• Parent Alert: Using time wisely is a challenge that needs frequent reinforcement.

Supplies

• 1 Composition Notebook - for learning journal *Returning students may already have one.*
• 1 Spiral Notebook (or composition book) - for daily notes and warm-ups. **IMPORTANT**
• Three-ring binder with dividers and paper
• Assorted Pens / Pencils / Highlighters
• 1 Folder with pockets –for transporting papers home
• NOTE: Substitutions to any of the above are possible if they are in the best interest of the student and provide an equal or improved level of organization.

Keeping Organized and Being Prepared

• Class materials will be available online so there is no need for luggage sized binders.
• Use a small binder to store hard copies of past and ongoing assignments.
• Recommended TABS: Grammar, Stems, Composition, Lit, and Terms.
• Spirals should be used continuously; this greatly affects performance.
• Google Classroom will be used for assignment and announcement postings.
• Some new tools like Canvas and Remind, will also be used as the year progresses.
• A comprehensive class guide providing details about current and future activities will be ritually maintained within google classroom.

Discipline

• I follow the guidelines outlined in the Student Handbook.
• I expect my students to be receptive, responsible, and respectful.

BYOD (Bring your own device)

• Devices include laptops, tablets, smart phones, etc.
• In GT the use of devices is encouraged.

Home Access Center (HAC)

• Check grades frequently and seek help when necessary.
• For questions about the HAC system please refer to the district or school’s web page.

Philosophy Statements

• My purpose is to assist students in developing their potential so that they will eventually possess the talents necessary to become an exceptional adult in our society.
• I believe that potential is equal parts ability and commitment.
• I believe that to be successful, students must be committed to their own learning; they need to be authentically engaged, and they should expect the same from their teachers.
• I believe that student learning is reflected by evidence of improvement in the quality and sophistication of their work.
• I believe that positive feedback from teachers, parents, and peers is the best way to motivate students to grow.
• I DO NOT believe that grades are the best reflection of learning, nor are they adequate to the task of motivating students to grow. (Regretfully, I still have to assign them.)