Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- What are your expectations?
- What supplies are needed for class?
- Is there a textbook?
- How will I be graded?
- What is the purpose of the class notebook?
- How should my notebook be organized?
- How do I get an "A" on my notebook?
What are your expectations?
You are always expected to be prepared for class with the necessary materials
(including homework) and an attentive, contributive mindset. You will need to
work diligently as an individual and cooperatively with partners or groups.
Your behavior must allow you and your classmates to focus and remain on task.
What supplies are needed for class?
Use an 8 1/2 by 11 spiral notebook for your Interactive Notebook. This
notebook will be graded several times a quarter for both classwork and
homework. In addition, set aside a folder or a section in a three-ring
binder for Geography graded work. Colored pencils and glue sticks for
classwork are essential.
Is there a textbook?
World Cultures and Geography, McDougal Littel(2007).
Students will be given a copy of this book within the first two weeks of
school. They are to keep it at home for homework assignments and as a
resource. Do not carry it back and forth--it is an at home resource not a
piece of strength training equipment! We have a class set for school use.
How will I be graded?
It is your responsibility to keep track of your grades. Your performance
will influence your placement. The grading policy is as follows:
Classwork/Notebook - 70% This will consist of group work and
activities done wholly within the classroom. It may be individual, partner,
or group work. Your notebook is an essential part of this
class. It will be collected from one to three times a quarter and graded
for organization, completeness, and quality.
Homework - 10% Homework will be given every class session.
Often it will cover information that will not be explained in class. If you
are absent, make every effort to get make up work the first day you return
to school from an absence, even if you do not have my class that day. No
late homework is accepted.
Quizzes and Tests and Projects - 20% There will be two or
three quizzes a quarter. All quizzes and tests will be announced in
advance. If you are absent before a posted quiz/test date and return to
school on the quiz/test date, you must take the quiz/tests. The papers and
projects will sometimes require outside research. Points will be subtracted
for lateness.
What is the purpose of the class notebook?
The purpose of the notebook is to enable you to be a creative, independent
thinker and writer. Your notebook will be used for notes and activities
where you will express your own ideas about the information used in this
class. The notebook's structure will help you use your left brain and right
brain, as well as your various intelligences. Furthermore, it is an
excellent organizational tool since all papers are firmly attached in the
notebook.
How should my notebook be organized?
Notebooks in this class will be organized into a LEFT SIDE and RIGHT SIDE
orientation to help you organize, record, and process new information.
Sometimes one side or the other will fill up faster; just use the blank
sides for Extension Activities.
How do I get an "A" on my notebook?
An "A" notebook must have all required information AND show effort above and
beyond classroom activities. All work should be accurate, neat, organized,
and colorful. All completed and correct work should be on the correct side
(Left or Right) with a date, title, and page number.