Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to common questions of students and parents.

1. How is work graded?
2. How many points are possible in a chapter folder?
3. My child is not a good reader. What can be done?
4. My child has test anxiety. How can s/he pass?
5. How do I find out my child's grade in Science?

How is work graded?

The following items are recorded for grades:
     1. Homework..........10%
     2. Classwork/Labs....10%
     3. Tests/Projects....60%
     4. Block Exam........20%

Homework and classwork are percentage of completion grades, as they are 
frequently done in small groups.  I normally give 5 points for every 
CORRECTED complete page.  Students who do not complete the page prior to 
correcting the work in class will receive 2 to 3 points for copying the 
correct answers.  Those who opt not to participate in class sign off on 
a "Refuses to Work" form for that day.

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How many points are possible in a chapter folder?

This will depend on the length of the chapter, the number of labs or 
activities, and other required elements.  Point totals for a chapter can run 
between 100 to 210 points, with the points determined by dividing the points 
earned by the points possible. If students do all required elements and 
bonus work, they can earn over 100% on a classwork file.

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My child is not a good reader. What can be done?

Two things:  I have paperback textbooks that reduce the amount of reading to 
the essentials.  If your child qualifies (is enrolled in reading, etc.), one 
can be issued to the student.  You and I will work out the homework 
assignments for the chapter.  The regular textbook is also recorded on cd.  
If your child is an auditory learner, s/he may hear the text via earphones 
during class or during encore.

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My child has test anxiety. How can s/he pass?

The Physical Science teachers are working on this problem  We hope to have a 
computer remediation course in place soon that would allow an online review 
and computer generated test to help these students.

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How do I find out my child's grade in Science?

Eligibility and current class grades are posted in my class on Thursdays.  
Deficiency slips are mailed out on the 3rd and 7th week of each Block.  
Midblock grades are sent home with the student during the 5th week of 
classes each Block.  The Block grade reports are also given to the students 
at the beginning of the subsequent Block.  The student may request a 
printout, or you may call a counselor and request a weekly check.

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