RULES REGARDING HOMEWORK/CLASSWORK
I believe that writing assignments are the most valuable way to assess student's understanding of lessons taught to them. It also is a necessary skill to master in preparation for life in the real world. With that rationale in mind, most of my assessments are in composition format. I also include alternate expression assignments which usually consist of diagrams or drawings of a particular lesson. Finally, our experiments are assessed using tables, graphs and the scientific process format. Students are required to complete these assignments in their composition books by the due date assigned. Most, NOT ALL, assignments may be turned in within two weeks of the due date for a discounted 80% credit. After two weeks but within four weeks of the due date the assignment is worth 50% credit. After four weeks from the due date, the assignment has no point value but is still expected to be completed.
Students are also required to have a "Science" Folder which will have four tabs in it: the population of the world (by date), "Our Misspelled Words", "What I Learned Today" section and one general section.
Each student needs to bring his/her composition book, folders and the school provided planner every day to class along with a pen and a pencil. Equipment checks will be done and counted as a grade.
To establish a connection between what is taught and what is going on in the world, I require students to bring in current science articles from news sources (newspapers, magazines, internet, etc) along with a summary to share with the class for a grade. This allows all students to demonstrate their skills in classroom involvement. Typically, this assignment will be due on each Thursday and, with that in mind, there is no partial credit for turning it in late (unless it was due to an absence).
When a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to find out what assignments may have been assigned. This may be done through peer contact, checking the assignemnt board or meeting with me during our seminar period, lunch period or before/after school.
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