Advanced Academic Literacies

2008-2009 Syllabus

Contacts

Preparation

Please bring the following to class every day:

·         1 ½ inch binder with 10 section dividers

·         loose-leaf paper

·         Writing utensils

Grading

Each of our ten units includes several “tasks”, both individual and group. The marking period grades are a combination of these task grades.

The final exam is separate from marking period grades and is an individual portfolio.

Make-Up Work

When absent it is the student’s responsibility to get the work

All make-up work must be done after school (2:30-3:10) or at home if allowed

After one week an “absent” mark becomes a “0” grade if not made up 

Late Assignments

A late homework assignment loses ½ credit per day

Homework will not be accepted beyond one day late

A late individual task loses 10 points per day

Individual tasks will not be accepted beyond three days late

A late group task loses 20 points per day off of the group grade

Group tasks will not be accepted beyond three days late

Tardiness and Absence

Tardy=entering the room after the bell rings

Three tardy arrivals equal one absence (school policy)

Six unexcused absences result in loss of credit for the course 

Dress and Behavior

Respect those around you, yourself, and school property

Any inappropriate behavior will result in consequences

Students failing to dress appropriately will be told to change, hats will be confiscated, no hoods

Subsequent failure will result in referral to the Discipline Office

Electronic Devices

Any inappropriate electronic device seen/heard/used will be confiscated

Online Classroom Conduct

AAL will include online course work. The following conduct principles are synonymous with regular classroom behavior:

Participation

You must contribute your own thoughts and respond as assigned.

Explain your thoughts fully; why do you agree or disagree.

Complete conference assignments even if you are absent.

Respect

Any inappropriate comments made in the online classroom environment will not be tolerated. Comments of these nature will be treated the same as if they had been verbalized in the regular classroom.

Language

Standard English grammar and punctuation rules apply.

Emoticons and text-speak are not acceptable in this assignments.

Capitalize words appropriately and not LIKE THIS which insinuates shouting (inappropriate for a classroom environment).

Avoid strong or offensive comments.

Avoid written humor or sarcasm as it is easily misunderstood online.

Proofread comments as there is no edit function in conferences or reflections.

Focus

Stay on topic. Write short paragraphs which address one point.

If a new topic needs to be addressed, create a new paragraph or comment.

Punctuality

Submit assignments early or on time.

Participate in conferences when they are new and fresh in your mind.