Classroom Policies

U.S. History-Classroom Policies, Mr. Ditzenberger
Welcome
As we study U.S. history together, it is my hope and expectation that you have a deeper appreciation for the major events, figures, influences, and ideas of the United States. All of these historical occurrences shape our lives today, whether directly or indirectly. We study history to not only learn about the past but to guide us into our common future.
Structure of the Class
We begin virtually every day with an opener of some kind. You may be asked to reflect on your reading homework, form a written comment about a class discussion from the previous day, take a review quiz to show your understanding of recently covered material, etc. Whatever the “opener” may be, come to class prepared so that when class begins, you can begin.
About every two weeks you will be given a quiz. The quiz will be announced (there will be smaller, unannounced quizzes occasionally) and will require some studying. The quiz will cover the unit. Class time will not be given for a review. Classroom activities and homework assignments will be given to help me know whether you understand the unit material and it will help you prepare for the unit quiz. After several units, I will give a test that I will review for in class. I will try not to give tests on Mondays so that you can enjoy your weekend!
Syllabus
A syllabus will be provided each week that will give a plan (plans can and often change) of what will be covered. I will try to write homework on the board, but the syllabus can also be used to ensure that you have the homework assignment. The syllabus should be posted outside of my room so that you can have access to it even when the door is locked or another class is in session. I will also try to use my U.S. History blog to post the syllabus so that you can access information wherever you have an internet connection. The blog’s address is: http://ushistoryics.blogspot.com/
Assignments and Grades
All assignments are to be done independently unless otherwise noted. Independently means that you do not have help on the assignment. When you submit an assignment to me, I am evaluating what your understanding of the material is, not what someone else has contributed. I am concerned with my ability and competency to teach you and your effectiveness to learn. Independent work helps me to assess both of these elements. There will be plenty of chances for group work-both inside and outside of the class. Assignments can be completed in pen or pencil. For late assignment information, refer to page 18 of your handbook.
Homework should be turned in at the beginning of class in their appropriate folder unless otherwise directed by me.
Participation points will be given each week. Students can participate by listening in class, asking questions, discussing when appropriate, affirming other students, working hard in a small group/cooperative learning setting, etc. You’ll get full credit for participation points if you arrive to class everyday and are engaged. If you have more than two excused absences a week, you will not receive a grade at all (different than a zero) and your absence will not be counted against you.





Your total grade will be broken down as follows:
Tests: 50% Projects: 20% Daily Assignments and Homework: 20% Participation: 10%
Expect one project based assignment per quarter. This may be a paper, a group assignment that involves multiple steps, or a presentation. The point of these more significant assignments is for you to pursue learning at a deeper level while integrating a variety of skills (i.e., research, writing, public speaking, etc.) into the learning process.
Please submit all assignments or tests with your given (or nickname) and family name on the first line, followed by the course title on the second line, and the date on the third line.
Name Jeff Corson
Class U.S. History
Date in Proper Form 20/7/2007 or 20-7-07
General Rules
-Water is allowed in the class as long as it is in a closed water bottle. No other drinks are permitted.
-Respecting others demonstrates that we are made in God’s image and therefore are valuable to God. Disrespecting others demeans them and does not honor God’s image that he has given them. Debate and discussion are an essential part in learning the material for this class, but interaction with ideas and the people who hold them should always be done respectfully. Let’s create an accepting, affirming atmosphere of respect in which we can all (including me) learn. If respect is not granted, then the student will be asked to correct the behavior by sincerely apologizing, if appropriate, and changing the attitude of disrespect to one of respect. If disrespect continues, extra work will be given and parents will be contacted. If the behavior persists detention will result (see page 20 of your handbook).
-Leaving the class to use the restroom is acceptable, but you need to ask just so that you can leave at a good time. Often there may be a good time in the coming few minutes (during an upcoming transition). If I expect students are leaving the room for other reasons, I will change this rule to fit the class.
-Extra credit is not generally offered. However, if there are extenuating circumstances, I may allow students to complete additional assignments when the work was not turned in because of extreme circumstances.

Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns: kditzenberger@ics.edu.sg









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Please return this within the first week of class for 5 points credit.

I have read and understood the Classroom policies of Mr. Ditzenberger’s U.S. History class.

_______________________________________ Signature of Parent or Guardian _______________Date


_______________________________________ Signature of Student _______________Date