Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of
students and parents.
- Can I make up work I didn't turn in, so that I can bring up my grade?
- Where do I put this assignment?
- Can I do extra credit work to bring up my grade?
- What happens if I don't pass my EOI?
- Why do we do bell work?
- What are residual ACTs?
- What is AP class, and how do I know if it is right for me?
- Do I really need those school supplies?
Can I make up work I didn't turn in, so that I can bring up my grade?
Only if you have an IEP and it specifies that you may. I grade work that is
turned in on time.
Where do I put this assignment?
In the tray labeled with your class name.
Can I do extra credit work to bring up my grade?
Only on specific assignments when noted. Otherwise, no.
What happens if I don't pass my EOI?
If you will graduate in 2010 or 2011, your score reflects on
your teacher and school. If you graduate in 2012 or later, you must pass at
least 4 of the 7 tests you'll take in order to receive a diploma. One of the
tests that you're required to pass is English 2. (The other is Algebra 1.)
Otherwise,
you'll receive a Certificate of Completion, provided you pass your classes.
Why do we do bell work?
You do bell work for several reasons. One, it's an opportunity for me to
quietly take roll without wasting any of your valuable learning time. Two,
it jump starts your brain, or helps it shift gear, in order to be ready for
class. Consider it stretching for the mind! Finally, it either opens the
lesson we'll be studying, supplements the lessons we've been studying, or
allows you a chance to review skills you've already covered. Many students
find the added benefit of it helping their grade as well, since it's an
everyday activity that's done in class. Unless you miss school and don't
make it up, it's an assignment you don't have the opportunity to forget
about!
What are residual ACTs?
The ACT test is changed every time it is administered, and the score you
make is accepted at the vast majority of universities. (In fact, unless the
school only accepts SATs, your ACT score will be accepted nation wide.)
A residual ACT is a test that is administered only at a specific
university, and the score only counts toward that university. The down side
is that if you decide to attend a different school, you'll only be able to
use the score from the regular ACT. The up side is that it is the same test
administered for one school year, and you can take it up to 6 times. For
example... you want to attend OSU, but it's too far to drive up there every
time the test is administered. You can take the residual ACT at SOSU in
Durant for the first three or four times, and get used to that test. (Same
one every time, remember?) Then you can drive to OSU and take the test for
the 5th or 6th time, and again it is the same test you've been working on
for the past year! You've now taken it at the university you plan on
attending, and it's probably a really good score by this point, since you've
practiced on it so much.
If you are willing to put in the time and effort, and you know what school
you want to attend, residual ACTs are the best way to go. If you don't have
a clue where you want to attend, and only plan on taking the test a couple
of times, take the regular test, because it will benefit you more in the
long run.
What is AP class, and how do I know if it is right for me?
AP stands for Advanced Placement; the class is offered only to juniors and
seniors, and we alternate whether it is AP Literature or AP Language each
year. The class teaches you to think and write on a college level, preparing
you for a test at the end of the year. The test offers scores of 1, 2, 3, 4,
or 5. If you score a 3 or better most colleges will offer you 3 hours of
college credit for a class you took in high school!
The class is rigorous, and is aimed at being taught on a college level. It
is usually a small class,
and you work very closely with your fellow classmates. Attendance is
extremely important because of the amount of discussion and sharing that
takes place.
All students are welcome to enroll in the class, but be prepared for a
challenge! You must participate daily, and you write timed, in-class essays
frequently. If you enjoy writing, don't mind working hard, and appreciate a
challenge, I hope to see you there!
Do I really need those school supplies?
Yes! As you know if you've had me in the past, we use highlighters almost
every single day. It's also important for you to have the correct writing
utensils- no crazy ink colors! I've included a composition notebook because
you will need it for journaling. I highly recommend getting a flashdrive as
well for the numerous papers and projects you do with both me and other
teachers as well. You never know when you may be able to re-use something in
college!