How Can I Succeed in Mr. Kincaids science class?
1. Turn in your homework. Homework is not meant to be busy work or a means
for teachers to torture their students. It is to reinforce or introduce new
concepts to students. I want to see what you do and do not understand. You
will have ample time to complete homework assignments and if you have
extenuating circumstances you should see me PRIOR to the due date.
2. Take notes in class and spend 10 minutes per night looking back over
them. Read your textbook as 90% of the test comes from the textbook. Studying
the night before a quiz or a test is not a smart practice. If you determine
that you do not understand something, it is hard to find the time to get help
if you've discovered this last minute. In addition, all research shows that
you remember the material better if you study as you go along.
3. Ask questions when you do not understand something. As a high school
student, I expect you to take initiative and come ask for help when you need
it. I am available to help you both before and after school. I get here at
~7AM and leave at the earliest at 3:15PM. Plenty of time to answer
questions...
4. Turn in your homework. Did I mention this already?
5. Use the website I've provided you & Power school. You can find out
homework assignments there, download copies of handouts and labs if you are
absent or lost your copy, and find links to help you understand concepts.
You should also keep track of your grades & missing assignments. I am
human, so if you see that I have made a mistake, please bring it to my
attention in a patient way. I would suggest checking on your grades once
per week. I update them a couple times per week.
6. Send me an e-mail. I'm a computer geek. If you're having trouble with
homework or concepts, e-mail me. I'm very responsive to student e-mails.
7. Stay organized. This will help you in school and in life. Use your
agenda books to keep up with your assignments. Try avoid the quick "throw
it in your book bag" or "fold it up and stuff it in your back pocket." It's
an easy way to lose things, get stressed out, and lose points on missing
work.
8. Be proactive in keeping your grade high! High school can be overwhelming
at times, but it is a time to start being more independent and responsible
in your school work.
9. Make up work in a timely manner. If you miss a day in class, make sure
you take responsibility to check the calendar in class & the website to see
what you've missed. Follow the school policy for making up assignments
found in your agenda book.
10. Have fun! Whether you want to be a scientist or not, you will always do
better in science if you have a good attitude and enjoy yourself.
