Class Expectations

Students are required to follow the following classroom expectations:

• Arrive on time & be prepared
• Deposit cell phone in appropriate area in class
• Respect everyone, always
• Return all supplies and leave the room clean
• Complete all assignments by the due dates
• Ask questions
• "I don't know." doesn't work

Some general questions students may have will be answered here:

1. When are assignments due? At the start of the next class. Assignments turned in late will receive a letter-grade reduction unless the student was absent.
2. Where can I find work I missed? The class blog will have most of the documents and instructions you will need this year. In the class there will be a folder for each of my classes with copies of handouts or other materials.
3. Will you have extra copies of handouts? I only make a few extras of each handout. I will have (hopefully) digital copies posted here for students to download & print on their own time.
4. How much time do I have to complete missed work if I was absent? You have a maximum of three (3) school days for every day you missed. This means if you missed two days, you have six days to get caught up on missed work and your current assignments. The days are consecutive, meaning if you miss on Monday, you have until Thursday to complete your work (this equals three school days which are Monday through Friday) weekends do not count in this policy.
5. How long will I have to work on a project? This will depend on several items, including but not limited to:
1. The Middle College schedule (which can & has changed from time to time for other activities)
2. Weather
3. Due dates will be broken down to help students manage their progress better
4. Individual student strengths & their ability to manage their time
6. What kinds of projects will we have? Your projects will range in variety from creating posters, timelines, pamphlets, flyers, lists, PowerPoint presentations, just to name a few. I really cannot give specifics because some of the products you create will depend on what interests you and the topic we are studying.
7. What if I need a pen, paper, pencil, or a book? Books are to remain in the classroom unless you sign one out. Pens, pencils, and paper are available in the room, but are to be used during class time only and must be returned before leaving for the day.
8. Why does your expectations list say "'I don't know.' doesn't work"? Most times "IDK" tells people that you don't care. I like students to break the habit of saying they "Don't know" something. There are ways of finding out information. One day you may find yourself in a situation where "IDK" means the difference between getting what you want versus what someone else wants. I want students to change that statement to something better such as "I'll see what I can find out." etc.
9. Why do we have to "deposit" our cell phone? In the past, cell phones were a distraction to Middle College students. They were also a source of conflict between people. Asking students to place their cell phone in a particular location (which will be secure and visible at all times) is training for their future employment where they may be asked to not have a phone on them. This policy is not a punishment. It is meant to prevent conflict and off-task behavior in class.
10. Will I have homework? This question also depends on multiple factors such as:
1. Student attendance
2. The Middle College schedule
3. Weather
4. Closeness of a project due date
5. Student time management skills

Now that you have read the class policies, please post a comment with your first name and the first initial of your last name.

For example:

"I read and understand all your class policies, Mr. Wade." - George J.