Ms. Zirini's Geography Class

Dear Parents:

Welcome to a brand new year!

The transition from elementary to middle school could seem daunting for both you and your child.  However, with your cooperation and support we can make this process as smooth as possible.  The following syllabus will provide you with an overview of the rules, procedures and policies for the class.  Please look it over, sign the end portion and return it to me.

I look forward to meeting each of you, and together making this a fantastic, successful and memorable year.

Thank you,

Ms. M. Zirini

Middle School Social Studies/Research

Class:  6^th Grade Geography, RM 8227

Teacher:  Ms. Zirini

Contact Info:  mzirini@aventuracharter.org   

Class Webpage:  http://new.schoolnotes.com/mzirini

Books:            The World and Its People textbook

Each student will receive one textbook to take home (and it will stay home until the end of the year).  

Supplies:  3 blue or black pens

                  Loose leaf paper

                  Loose leaf paper for notes in a binder or if students prefer a notebook

                  1 two pocket folder

Classroom Rules

1.      Follow directions the first time they are given.

2.      Come prepared to class

3.      Raise your hand to speak, ask questions or permission to leave the room.

4.      Keep on task and turn in all work when it is due.

5.      Respect yourself, your peers, your teachers and school property.

Consequences

1. Verbal warning.
2. Detention (Tuesday mornings  7:45-8:15)
3. Seat change.
4. Seat change near the teacher.
5. Sent to another class for the remainder of the period.
6. Telephone/conference with parents and/or administrative referral

Rewards

1. No Homework Pass.
2. Computer time.
3. Good work note home
4. Fun activity/games   (Class reward)      

Class Rewards Chart:     Other than individual rewards and recognition the class as a whole is capable of being rewarded for overall good behavior and work.  If no student’s attention is called and everyone has remained on task for the period, the class earns one point.  After ten points, the class earns a class period of fun activities and/or games. 

Along with the individual classroom rules there are a set of standard Middle School Rules that every student is expected to follow at all times.  These rules are subject to the same consequences mentioned above if broken.

1. Respect your teachers, fellow students, classroom supplies, furniture, and  yourself
2. No Gum, Candy, Food or Drinks Allowed
3. Come to class on time, prepared with all supplies and homework complete
4. Take responsibility for your actions
5. Engage in behaviors that support learning for everyone

Procedure for Leaving the Class

-          The teacher dismisses the class…not the bell

-          Students file out of class quietly, row by row.  Beginning with the row closest to the door.

Class Notes:   Notes are taken regularly in class, and are required by every student.  Random “Note Quizzes” are given throughout the year.  It is an all or nothing grade.  I will ask for a date and check if the student has the notes for that day. Students should find a “Note Buddy” in case of absences or missed notes, in order to obtain the notes they need. Students are responsible for getting any missed notes in class!

Make up Policy for Missed Work:   Students are responsible for making up any notes and assignments that he/she missed upon the absence.  It is suggested that students find a “Note Buddy” who they are able to depend upon for missed notes when absent.  Students should check the class webpage daily for homework, due dates and any other class information.

If you are absent, there is a “Classroom Agenda” where all the homework and class work that was completed in the day is logged.  It is the student’s responsibility to check that agenda (located in the front of the class) for the missed assignment.

Additionally, all assignments must be written clearly and legibly in black or blue ink only.  Pencils and white-out are not accepted! 

Homework Policy:     Homework is important to reinforce and ensure mastery of the skills your child will need to succeed in class.  Therefore, not turning in homework will result in lower academic performance. Homework is always posted clearly on the board and may be found on the class website. 

Bathroom Policy:    Bathroom breaks should be taken before entering the classroom.  Permission for the bathroom requires the student to have his/her agenda with the appropriate bathroom pass upon leaving the class and in the hall.

No student may leave the class the first 10 minutes of class or the last 10 minutes of class.

Late Work Policy:   The penalty for late work is a 10 pt. deduction for every day that the assignment is late.  After the 5^th day the assignment will be counted as a 0 and not accepted.

Tardiness: Arriving late to class is disrespectful to the teacher and fellow students.  Students are expected to be in their seats and completing the “Bell Work” assignment on the board by the time the bell rings.  A “tardy” will result for any student who arrives to class after the late bell without an appropriate pass.  More than two unexcused tardies will result in a detention.

                  Homework May 18 - May 29: (Periods 1,2,4,6)

• Review each day's notes
• study Europe map 
• Begin preparing for test 
• Project Presentations begin Tuesday, 5/22

Homework May 18 - May 29: (Period 5):

• Review each day's notes
• study Europe map
• begin preparing for test
• Project Presentations begin Tuesday, 5/22 

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Upcoming Due Dates

May 21: Europe Map Test

May 29: European History Test

Please note that I have added a link to a special website designed for geography notes.  On this website I have included the notes (power points) that we have covered in class. Students are still responsible for taking notes in class however in case that students miss certain information or are absent the notes will be provided on this new site.

Notes quizzes will still be administered as described in the syllabus, however I will also be checking notes at the end of every Chapter to ensure that students are writing the notes down.