FAQ's

Many times we have lots of questions but no time to ask them! Listed below you will find the answers to some of the most often asked questions.

Q. I was absent. How do I know what I missed?

A. There are two ways to check. First, you should go to my web page and look under "Daily Agenda and Homework." Another thing you should do is call a buddy in class and double check with him or her. When you return after an absence, any handouts that you missed will be hanging on the whiteboard at the front of the room with your name on them.

Q. What if I really, really need to go to the restroom during class?

A. You have 4 "out-of-class" passes per quarter. Use one to visit the restroom if you have to.

Q. What if I forget or have finished my silent reading book?

A. You should have your silent reading book with you every day. This is the responsible thing to do. But supposing you do finish your book--you can check one out from our classroom library. Be sure to sign the check-out log and then put the date when you return the book. If there is not a book in our classroom library that you like, you may visit the media center to get another one. HOWEVER, this is on Wednesday's during our silent reading period only, or you can go on your time before or after school.

Q. I was at the dentist/doctor/orthodontist and missed a quiz. What shall I do?

A. No problem, just come in the following Wednesday at lunch for a make up.

Q. The kid sitting next to me is getting on my nerves. What shall I do?

A. I sympathize. The first thing you should do is use your words and explain to the student what it is that's bothering you. See if the two of you can problem solve. If that doesn't work, then come and speak to me privately and I'll help.

Q. I'm having a very busy week and I don't think I can get my assignments done. Help!!

A. Well, are you planning your time wisely? It may be that you just need to prioritize your time. If you have a genuine reason for not getting your assignments done then come and talk to me; I'm sure we can work something out.

Q. Can I turn in late work?

A. You will receive half credit for your late assignment UNLESS, you are using a TUIT. Then you will get full credit. TUITs are good for three days but only with a parent signature.

Q. What are these TUIT things you are handing out occasionally?

A. Good question. A TUIT is a homework late pass that means, "I will get around to it." Get it? Anyway, you get one TUIT each quarter, and it means that you can turn in one assignment late, with a TUIT, with no late penalty. By the way, I will accept unused TUITs at the end of the semester for 5 points extra credit.

Q. What can I do to earn extra credit?

A. Let me say right at the outset--don't wait to ask me for extra credit on the very last day of the grading period. Many do, you know. I shall roll my eyes and sigh and tell you "Sorry, too late." However, you may earn extra credit during the course of the semester if you feel you NEED it. Don't ask me for extra credit if you are getting an A+!! OK. Extra credit can be earned in several ways; for example, you can write a book report or write your spelling words out 5 times each. Sometimes, during the course of a lesson, I might throw in some extra credit opportunities, so listen for those. Sometimes I will add a couple of extra credit points to a completed assignment if you went "above and beyond." You can turn in unused Out-of-Class passes, TUITS, or paw passes. Or, you may have a particular topic that you would like to write about or research--just run it by me first. Remember, extra credit MAY NOT exceed 5% of your total grade.

These are just SOME of the questions that I get asked. If you cannot find the answer you are looking for, come and speak to me. :-)