Teacher: Joseph Leach Email: [email protected]
Emerald Coast Middle School Website: www.ecmscivics.weebly.com
Primary Objectives:
1. Promote the growth and development of informed U.S. Citizenswho will take an active role in shaping their communities.
2. Prepare students for Civics End-of-Course Assessment mandated by the state ofFlorida (this assessment will count as 30% of each student’s final grade).
Grading Scale: Grade Weights (prior to EOC)
100 – 90 A (Excellent) Tests (2-3 per qtr.): 30%
89 – 80 B (Above Average) Quizzes (6-10 per qtr.): 45%
79 – 70 C (Average) Classwork: 25%
69 – 60 D (Below Average)
59 and below F (Failing)
Classroom Expectations:
Adhere to ECMS’s core values: Respect
Accountability
Your best effort
Safety
I rarely assign homework in my class (aside from studying for quizzes & tests). In return, I expect students to be fully engaged in class, active note takers, and exemplary classroom citizens (i.e. be respectful of the classroom, myself & their fellow classmates).
Required Materials:
*1.5-inch binder (specifically for civics, students may leave their binders in the classroom overnight if they choose)
*pen or pencil & highlighters (I’m teaching out of multiple classrooms & will not have supplies on-hand to loan students)
Tips for Success:
1.Stay Organized - Student’s binders will effectively become their textbook. It is imperative students keep all documents provided (packets, graphic organizers, quizzes, etc.). Periodically I will conduct “binder checks” to ensure students are completing their classwork and keeping their binders organized (these count as a classwork/homework grade). Parents – If your child struggles with organization, I would recommend inspecting their binder on a weekly basis.
2.Study the Vocabulary – Each lesson plan will include anywhere from 5-25 key terms. It is vital that students understand these terms to succeed in my class and when taking the End-of-Course assessment.
3.Ask Questions & Follow Current Events – Please don’t hesitate to ask questions if any of the subject matter doesn’t make sense. I also encourage students to follow current events related to government & discuss these with their parents.
Please contact me ([email protected]) if you have any questions and/or concerns.