The Muddy Details

In this class, students explore the captivating art of shaping clay into unique creations. They will learn various techniques like handbuilding, using pinching, coiling, and slabs, as well as wheel throwing to create symmetrical vessels. The class introduces them to different types of clay and firing processes, turning their raw clay creations into beautiful glazed ceramics. Throughout this experience, students will develop patience, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the cultural significance of ceramics. This nurturing and inspiring environment fosters their creativity, sparking a lifelong passion for the fascinating world of ceramics. 

POLICIES

A set of rules and consequences have been established and will be maintained throughout the year.

TARDIES/LATE POLICY: 

If a student walks into the classroom after the bell without a pass, they will be given an automatic lunch detention. After the second lunch detention, they will receive a before or after school detention. If the tardiness continues, they will be referred to the office for further consequences. If a student chooses to miss any of their detentions, they will make up the detention they missed as well as serve an additional detention. Success in this class is directly related to student’s attendance and participation in the course. Attendance problems will have a negative effect on the student’s quarter and semester grade.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS AND PROJECTS POLICY: 

Late/Redo Assignments: Students have a two-week window from the due date to complete any make up assignments or tests. Assignments consist of everything but the final project. (i.e. worksheets, sketchbooks, tests, quizzes, etc.) Once a project is locked on Canvas, the student will no longer be able to turn in that assignment.

Late Projects: According to DVUSD policy, no late work will be accepted for any projects if they last over a week and are given time within their school day to complete the project. This policy stands for all projects given in the art and ceramics classroom.

Redo Projects: A student can redo any project for a better grade (if they were turned in by the due date) up to the end of the two week grading period set by the district office. This is a policy created to ensure students are able complete each assignment/project to the best of their ability. Once the two week grace period ends, redo projects will no longer be accepted.

UNPREPARED POLICY: 

Per quarter, the student will receive 3 unprepared marks. After the third day of being unprepared, the student will receive a lunch detention. After the lunch detention if the student continues to come to class unprepared, they will start serving before or after school detention.

RESTROOM POLICY: 

Each student is expected to sign out each time they leave a classroom. They will not be allowed to use the bathroom during demonstrations or during lectures. Each student will have to plan their restroom usage for the passing period or during other classes. Extenuating “emergencies” will be taken into account.

PLAGIARISM POLICY : 

Definition; the act of taking someone’s words or ideas as if they are your own. If a student submits a piece of work that is not his or her own, the student will be asked to complete the assignment or project again.

NOTE: Unless an assignment specifically requires copying, it will be interpreted in the same manner as plagiarism and is not acceptable. 

NOTE: If a student touches another student’s work without their consent, if a student breaks or ruins another student’s work, or if they steal another student’s work, they will be given a minimum of 3 before or after school detentions along with a phone call home. Depending on the severity, the student will receive a 0 for the project or be dismissed from the class.

GRADES

Students will receive marks for their proficiency towards the grade level standards using the following scale. These marks are for information and do not calculate the student's overall course grade.

• 4 = Highly Proficient

• 3 = Proficient

• 2 = Partially Proficient

• 1 = Minimally Proficient

Students will receive marks for their overall performance in each course of study using the following letter grade scale. Overall course grades will be calculated from the average of the student’s assignment scores* (assessments, coursework). 

• A =  90-100% 

• B =  80-89%

• C =  70-79%

• D =  60-69%

• F =   0-59%

NOTE: Grades of “D” and above are passing marks.  A course grade of “F” indicates that the student has failed the course.

All students are responsible for their own grades. No grade checks will be sent home. Parents can access grades via DVUSD PowerSchools. 

SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLE

A classroom Instagram - @mrmadisonart– has been created to keep students and parents/guardians updated on current classroom projects, art, school and community events. This classroom account is designed to globally connect with other educators and artists with in-the-moment updates – like a “virtual art gallery.” These are used for educational purposes only. Students’ full names and faces will not be featured on the account.