Course Standards
Mr. O'Shaughnessy
Honors Civics

Assignments Written:

1. Written assignments must be completed in standard blue or black ink.
Work submitted in pencil will not be accepted for credit. On occasion, more lengthy projects may
require typing. In such cases, arrangements for computer access will be forthcoming.

2. All work should be neatly done, paper edges trimmed and writing legible.

Notebook:

1. Notes must be carefully maintained throughout the course. Periodic inspections of student
notebooks will occur unannounced.

2. Completeness of content and clarity of organization will be emphasized rigorously. As an
incentive for thorough and accurate notation, notebooks may be used as a reference during tests
for the first quarter of the semester.

Class Preparation:

1. Homework is due at the START of each class. Credit for late assignments is at my discretion.
Chronic disregard for assignment due dates will result in No Credit.

2. Books, notebook, pen and pencil should be brought to class daily be each student. Borrowing
or Sharing" texts and other required materials is not acceptable.

A "tax" (labeled the "BOOK TAX" by students) of one percentage point deduction from the quarterly grade average will be the OPENING levy for unpreparedness. This method mirrors how government uses tax policy to incent wanted behavior.

3. Students should be prepared to participate fully in all classroom activities: discussion,
lecture, cooperative learning groups, question & answer, and recitation. Learning is an ACTIVE
pursuit. Note that all classroom activity(or lack thereof)is both accountable and evaluated.

4. Students should anticipate UNANNOUNCED written and oral quizzes on assigned readings and
homework.

Makeup Work: (upon return from a legitimate absence)

1. Tests must be made up after school (2:00 PM) WITHIN 5 DAYS of the original test date. It is
incumbent upon the student to make the necessary arrangements.

2. Late work that is accepted, will be lowered one letter grade per day of tardiness. Some long
range assignments such as: a journal, notebook, portfolio or research paper will not be accepted
late.

Grading Rationale: Please refer to grading explanation

Attendance and Behavioral Expectations: Norwalk Board of Education Policy and School-wide
regulations will be strictly enforced. Rules for conduct are clearly posted in my classroom.
Students may consult their Student Handbook for a more detailed description.

Conferences: I am available for assistance after school ends at 2:15 PM or prior to school by
special arrangement. It is the responsibility of the student to arrange for an appointment.
Appointments should be scheduled a day or two in advance to avoid conflict with Staff meetings or
extracurricular activities.

Parents/Guardians: You are encouraged to call at any time during the school year to discuss a
students progress. I welcome your input and support.
Should you need to consult me, I am available daily at 838-4481. Also, you may find contacting
me by e-mail through my TeacherWeb.com web site more convenient . You may click the mailbox icon there.
Please sign, cut off, and return the bottom portion of these Course Standards to indicate your
understanding of these requirements.
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STUDENT _____________________________ DATE
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PARENT/GUARDIAN __________________________________________________________