DSTP+Reading+course+info

=DSTP Reading Course Info (2006-2007)=

This is a course designed by the Newark High School Social Studies Department to improve the DSTP (Delaware State Testing Program) scores in both Reading and Social Studies by focusing on the Reading Comprehension of students who are struggling based on their 8th grade DSTP scores. This course is built around teaching students HOW to take the DSTP - showing them methods and using samples in order to help improve upon their previous scores.

Classroom Requirements:

 * Materials** Needed **//__EVERY DAY__//** in Class:
 * 3 Ring Notebook (1 inch is just fine) for this class only
 * Lined notebook paper
 * A pencil (**no pens**, markers, gel pens, etc.)

You are responsible for being prepared for class EVERY DAY!! //Class participation grades will be affected by your level of preparedness.//

Classroom Rules:

 * Be prompt
 * Be prepared
 * Be respectful of yourself, others and your surroundings
 * Be open
 * Be flexible
 * Be ready to learn

You are expected to behave in accordance with the rules and procedures outlined in the Student Code of Conduct and the Student/Parent Handbook. This includes proper dress code, no food, drink, candy, electronics, etc. All consequences are outlined in these two manuals. Students who are behaved and follow the rules will be rewarded for their positive behavior (RAP cards). This is NOT a study hall and should not be treated as such.
 * Behavior:**

Year-long courses allow up to **nine** absences (excused or unexcused). Absences //and// lates (both excused and unexcused) **__will__** affect your grade in this course.
 * Absences:**


 * WORK MISSED DUE TO CLASS CUTS RESULTS IN A ZERO.**

All students should take advantage of the Planners given you the first days of school for writing down homework assignments, test dates, etc. Organized students earn better grades!
 * Planners:**

In addition to assignments, planners are to be used for passes to/from class. NO PLANNER/NO PASS! Emergencies will be handled case-by-case.

Grades will be based on **class participation** in discussions and small group work (daily), reading journals, and writing assignments. Students will either recieve a O (Outstanding), S (Satisfactory), or U (Unsatisfactory) for each marking period.
 * Grading:**

PLEASE SEE ME if you need extra help with __anything__ in class! I will do everything I can to help you succeed, but you need to make the effort! My goal is to help you succeed on the DSTP. Ask for help!!! I am here most days before school, during lunch, and after school. Ask me. I’m here to educate you.
 * Extra Help:**

I look forward to an exciting, positive year with you. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns regarding these policies, your grades, or the subjects covered in class. Good Luck!

Please take this home and have your parent/guardian sign the //attached// sheet. You also must sign the sheet and return it to me no later than **Tuesday, September 5th** for a grade. This is your first homework assignment!