Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.
- What should I do if I am absent from class?
- What should I do if I forgot to do the homework or left it at home?
- How do I get extra help?
- How should I prepare for exams?
- What should I do if I am confused or concerned about a grade I received?
- What is my class work grade composed of?
What should I do if I am absent from class?
Complete the scheduled homework according to the weekly assignment sheet. If
you did not pick up a weekly assignment sheet, you can download one from the
handout section of this webpage. Call, email or instant message a classmate
to find out what you missed. Be sure to obtain a copy of the notes from a
classmate before you return to class. If you are absent on an exam day, be
prepared to take the exam upon your return to class.
What should I do if I forgot to do the homework or left it at home?
Late homework will not be accepted from students who were in school the day
the homework was assigned and in school the day it was due. You may earn
extra homework points by doing exemplary work on later assignments. The lowest homework
grade will be dropped each quarter.
How do I get extra help?
The days and times I am available for extra help are published on the weekly
assignment sheet. Extra help is given in room 2501. Please let me know in
advance when you will be coming so that I am waiting for you in my room. You
may also email me at sstern@acsdny.org with any questions.
How should I prepare for exams?
Everyday you are preparing for the next unit exam. Coming to class, participating in class and
doing your homework are all crucial components to preparing for unit exams. In addition, there
are a number of proven, helpful techniques to ensure your success on unit exams. These
include, but certainly are not limited to, the following:
1. Take five to fifteen minutes each day to read over your notes from the current unit.
2. Create flashcards for use in studying unit vocabulary.
3. Use blank maps to quiz yourself on geographical features and locations.
4. Form a study group that meets regularly. Use those meetings to quiz each other and
compare your class notes.
5. Make your own study guides for each unit test.
6. Meet with Ms. Stern for tutoring before each exam.
7. Get at least 8 hours of sleep the night before each exam.
8. Have a nutritious snack or meal before each exam.
What should I do if I am confused or concerned about a grade I received?
It is very important that you understand the grades that you receive in your courses so that you
can improve your performance. If you are confused or concerned about a grade you have
received, please make an appointment to see me after school, before school or during a free
period and I will be happy to discuss your grade with you. The grades of individual students
will not be discussed during class time due to privacy issues and in fairness to the other
students who deserve a full class period devoted to learning.
What is my class work grade composed of?
There are several factors that compose the class work grade. Among them are attendance,
promptness and positive participation in all class activities (note-taking, discussions, group
work, etc.).