Course Syllabus

Ginger Polk- Parkwood High Fall 2019-2020

Literacy Skills/Apex

 

I can't wait to get started with you this year in our Literacy Study Skills/Apex course. You may be reading your schedule and questioning what is a literacy skills course and why am I here? Good question! This is a course that has been designed for students who require supports in academics and/or organizational supports.  The expectations for students in our class is to utilize our time to meet your individual needs. This could include homework support, additional instruction/re-teaching, credit recovery, executive functioning and organizational supports in order to perform at your highest level of ability within the general curriculum.

 

Grading:

 

For this course grading looks slightly different than that of a typical academic course. Students within our Literacy Skills course are graded on the following: teacher tracking of students' time on task, work habits, participation within the classroom, (this includes working with the teacher, peers, or individually), organization (staying organized within own materials, keeping up with assignments/course work across all settings), and completion of Apex work.

 

Below is the grading chart that Union County Public Schools follows:

 

A             90%-100%

B             80%-89%

C             70%-79%

D             60%-69%

F              0%-59%

This is a course that has been designed for every student to have the potential to earn an A. Simply put, being prepared, completing assignments, staying on task throughout each class period and giving it your best effort is all it will take to earn an A. You will be the one to make the decision on how you earn your grade.

 

Classroom Expectations: 

 

Be on time and be prepared.

Bring all materials. This would include a daily agenda, class assignments, books, chromebooks, and any other materials necessary to complete assignments and classroom work.

Show up at the start of class on time.  We are working towards molding you to be a responsible adult.

Be responsible. Take ownership of your faults and be proud of your accomplishments.

We all make mistakes. Mistakes are okay. Mistakes are what mold us into effective human beings who make wise life decisions. What is not okay, is to not own up to your mistakes. Take ownership of your educational experience.

Be respectful.

Show empathy and kindness to all you encounter, especially in our work space. Everyone is here for one reason, to learn. Just because you know something, doesn't mean everyone does. If someone asks a question you find to be unimportant, keep your thoughts and comments to yourself.

Use school appropriate language. This course is preparing you to be a responsible adult who can effectively communicate and advocate for themselves. Cursing, slander, and vulgar language will not be tolerated in any form.

Honor classroom time and procedures. We are limited in our time together during the school day. Please be on task and prepared during group/individual learning time. This is your education, and you must be the leader and take ownership.  As your teacher, I work diligently to prepare materials and set you up for success in every opportunity possible. I am one of your biggest advocates here at school. Support me by honoring our classroom time, and completing what is asked of you.

*Additionally, students are expected to abide by school and district policies that are outlined in the handbook. Cell phones are not allowed out unless instructed otherwise.

 

Communication:

 

Daily communication is key to success. I will be in contact with your teachers and parents regarding your performance and needs on a regular basis. The best and fastest way to communicate with me is via e-mail. Parents are also available to call me here at the school. If needed, I am also able to make arrangements to meet with parents and/or students before or after school.

 

E-mail: ginger.polk@ucps.k12.nc.us

 

Parkwood HS number: 704-764-2900

I am looking forward to our semester together, and seeing all that we can accomplish to best benefit you!

 

 

 

Course Summary:

Date Details Due