Expectations

CLASS EXPECTATIONS

• RESPECT!!! I expect each of us to treat one another with respect in both words and actions. Students are expected to be respectful of opinions that may be different from their own. Other basic rules of conduct also apply – raise your hand, listen when someone speaks, use appropriate language, and extend common courtesy.

• Class Preparation: Students are expected to arrive at class ON TIME and prepared with the materials needed for class - pen, paper, and an open mind.

• Class Participation: Class participation means that you are prepared and involved in class. Participation can take many forms – answering questions, asking questions, joining discussions, quietly listening and/or taking notes, and participating in group activities. Positive participation means that you contribute to an atmosphere which allows all students to learn. Negative participation which detracts from the learning environment will not be tolerated.

• Written Work: Written work, other than maps, should be completed neatly in blue or black ink on loose leaf paper. Students are expected to write in complete sentences with appropriate spelling, capitalization, punctuation, and grammar.

• Academic Integrity: I expect all students to do their own work. Plagiarism and other forms of cheating are unacceptable and will be met with strong consequences.

• Homework: To assist with time management, students are given multiple days for most assignments. All assignments will be checked and/or graded. Students earn half credit for work one day late. After that, late work will NOT be accepted.

• Quizzes, Tests, and Extra Help

  • Quizzes will generally be announced in advance although there may be occasional ‘homework checks’ to ensure that reading assignments have been completed.

  • Tests will always be announced in advance. Tests typically require the application of material discussed in class rather than simple memorization of facts. This makes it difficult to study at the last minute. Please ask questions along the way!

  • Extra help is always available. Please speak with me to arrange a mutually convenient time.

• Absences

  • Assignments missed due to absence are YOUR responsibility to make up. Missed assignments from single day absences are due when you return. Those from longer absences are due the Monday after your return unless other arrangements have been made.

  • Tests and quizzes missed due to absence must be taken on the day you return to school unless other arrangements have been made.

  • When in school but missing class (for music lessons, for example), students must hand in any assignment due and get the following day’s assignment.

• Grades: Grades are calculated based on tests, projects, quizzes, homework, and class activities. They will be regularly posted online. There will be no extra credit opportunities.