Frequently Asked Questions: This page contains answers to
common questions of students and parents.
- Do I need to bring my textbook to class every day?
- Am I allowed to use the laptops in your room?
- Do I need to type my research paragraphs and essays?
- When are you available to meet with students?
- Can you write reference passes to the library or computer lab?
- What is a literary analysis?
- What are blueprints?
- How do I write a thesis statement?
- Do I need to bring my notebook to class every day?
- What is a research paper?
- Did your name used to be Ms. Sheridan?
Do I need to bring my textbook to class every day?
No, you do not need to bring a textbook to class
every day because I keep a class set in my room.
They are numbered, so you may sign them out
overnight or over the weekend, if needed. Just
remember to return them:)
Am I allowed to use the laptops in your room?
Yes, you are allowed to use the laptops when we are
not involved in other class activites. Please sign
out the laptop using the binder on the top of
the cart. Personal surfing is not permitted. Also,
please be respectful by properly shutting down the
laptop and plugging it in so it may recharge for
the next group of students. If
you are unable to abide by these simple rules, then
your laptop privileges may be revoked.
Do I need to type my research paragraphs and essays?
Yes, there are many reasons why you should type
your paragraphs and essays. Not only is it easier
to read and grade, but it makes your editing much
easier.
When are you available to meet with students?
I am available before and after school, as well as
periods 2 and 8. Please try to schedule an
appointment ahead of time, as I may have other
obligations such as meetings, bus duty, tutoring,
or previously arranged
student meetings.
Can you write reference passes to the library or computer lab?
Yes, I will write passes;however, I ask that you
please see me before school, at the end of class,
or during my free periods. I do not like to be
interrupted in the middle of lessons with pass
requests.
What is a literary analysis?
A literary analysis is a critical look at important
elements in the work. You explain how the author
has used the elements and how they work together
to portray the author's message. IT IS NOT ABOUT
THE AUTHOR AND IT IS NOT ABOUT THE BOOK; IT IS
ABOUT HOW THE AUTHOR WRITES IN THE BOOK.
What are blueprints?
Blueprints are main ideas designed to help you to
organize your research paper. You will need three
blueprints for your research paper.
How do I write a thesis statement?
subject + verb + 3 blueprints = strong and
organized thesis statement
Do I need to bring my notebook to class every day?
Yes, you need to bring your notebook to class every
day in order to write your daily T.O.D. (Task of
the Day)or bellringer and take class notes. You
will be graded on your notebook using a notebook
rubric at the end of every marking period.
What is a research paper?
A research paper uses information gathred from a
variety of outside sources to explore a topic. In
your research paper, you will include an
introduction, in which your thesis is stated within
the introduction, typically at the end of the
introduction; a body, in which you present support
for the thesis; and a conclusion that summarizes,
or restates your main point at the beginning of the
conclusion. You should always credit the sources
of information, using parenthetical documentation
that matches an annotated bibliography.
Did your name used to be Ms. Sheridan?
Yes, I am formerly known as Ms. Sheridan. I
married in July 2008, so my name has changed from
Ms. Sheridan to Mrs. Whitney; however, I often
answer to both names.