Tests and other major grades:

Although we may have to adjust as time constraints limit us, I expect three or more tests each six weeks. These tests will be a mixture of multiple choice, matching, true/false, and short answer questions.

A relatively short project, such as a mock trial, may be included. When that happens, it will be weighted as the equivalent of 1/2 of a test grade.

Interactive Notebook:

All daily assignments will be included in the interactive notebook. So this is the daily grade component of the course grade.

The idea of an interactive notebook is that students respond to instructional input, which goes on the right side of the notebook, with their activities, which go on the left side of the notebook. The material on the right side, therefore, should be authoritative for studying purposes.

Class Participation:

The ability to carry on meaningful class discussions is critical in this class, and it's one of the things that I value most highly. Therefore it is an important part of the evaluation process.

As a teacher, it is my function to evaluate student learning and participation. This evaluation is undoubtedly subjective, so I endeavor to error on the side of generosity.

I also recognize that some students are not comfortable speaking regularly before a large group. So a great deal of my evaluation of participation involves evaluating student performance in small group situations. Students in my class are grouped daily (about four per group). Most of the work of our class occurs is such small groups.

Please feel free to contact me!

If you have a concern, please send e-mail to gnelson@kleinisd.net or call me at 281-251-1286 (home). I'm anxious to help with your concerns!