- What is your grading scheme?
- What does a "Z" grade mean?
- What does an "X" grade mean?
- How do I know how my child is doing?
- How can I help my child study?
What is your grading scheme?
Participation - 5%
Homework - 10%
Projects - 20%
Classwork - 25%
Tests, Quizzes, Writing - 40%
What does a "Z" grade mean?
A "Z" is given when homework, assignments and projects are not
turned in by the due date. The "Z" is calcuated into the overall
grade as a zero, but can be made up for a certain period of time,
as determined by the teacher. When a student turns in the missing
work, the grade will be changed. Work may be "marked down"
appropriately when turned in late.
What does an "X" grade mean?
A "X" is given when a student is "excused" from that assignment.
For example, when a "novel check" grade is given, absent students
will receive an X indicating they are excused from that work.
The "X" grade is NOT calcuated into the overall grade.
How do I know how my child is doing?
Check Pinnacle. It is an excellent tool. You are able to see a
grade for each assignment in each subject AS SOON AS THE TEACHER
ENTERS IT.
Pinnace also has the capability for teachers to enter "comments."
Some teachers use this tool as well.
How can I help my child study?
For Language Arts, this may or may not be necessary. When I sent
home the "Language of Literature" textbooks, I told the students
they may never use them. If a student is very focused in class,
they may not ever need to study at home. We always read
selections in class, and usually more than once. I review, review
and review with them - in all manners. I even - for real - show
them the test the day before the test, and read them the
questions. They also know which vocabulary words will be on the
selection tests. If they pay attention during this class time,
they may not need additional studying for Language Arts tests.
There are, however, times when a student WILL need to study at
home such as: 1) when the child is absent when we read the
selection,analyze it, and/or review for it; 2)when the child is
not paying attention during class; 3) when a child's reading
level is low and he/she needs reinforcement at home. For such
instances, I recommend looking at "This Week's Focus" to see what
is being covered that week.
