Current+Assignments

March 16, 2012

Some students have become unaccountable for bringing the correct supplies to class. My class rules are posted, and we have followed the same format since August. Students need to bring daily their textbook, three section notebook, agenda and folder.Many students try to leave class daily claiming they need their other notebooks. If they have completed one notebook, I have offered to store them in my file cabinet for the year end final. This will be an open notebook test. I stressed from the beginning of the year the importance of taking notes in chronological order, highlighting vocabulary terms, people, and special events. The year end final, will be averaged in with their report card grades.

Last week at the faculty meeting, the importance of great note taking skills was addressed. My students who take great notes, usually have great test scores. I do very thorough reviews of their notes, to make sure all test items are covered. I began the year by modeling note taking, but I have weaned them off of this, and they are responsible for reading the material on their own and outlining. Some students have become lazy, and I want all students to succeed.

Monday they have an open notebook test over Islam.

They have a project on a Children's Book with a Rubric. They have all ready read their book, made their timeline, and their Story Board plan. Now all they have to do, is write the book. This will count as a regular project grade. I will be taking them to the computer lab two more times, and I extended the deadline to March 30, 2012.

They also have to have their 12 Service hours completed by April 1.

Our next Chapter will be early Africa and MesoAmerica. After that we will be busy with the Middle Ages, Crusades, Renaisaince and the Reformation.

I explain in depth assignments, they need to take accountability for showing up with supplies and being prepared to follow notetaking guidelines, make comparison charts, etc in class. We have had a great year, and their previous projects have been outstanding. They have been very engaged in their projects, ask interesting questions about ancient history, and I believe they have had a very successful year. I have enjoyed teaching them, and value all of thier interest in World History. Barbara Sworin