The following is a breakdown of how you will be graded in this class:

Tests and Quizzes | Homework and Classwork | Class Participation

Tests and Quizzes - 50%

In this class, you can expect to have at least one quiz or test per unit that we study. Basically, you will be taking either a quiz or a test at least every other week. Because they count for one half of your grade, you need to take every assessment very seriously as each test has a significant impact on your final average. Students that do not pay attention in class, do not take notes, do not actively think about the material, or do not study will struggle on the tests they take. Often, you will be given a review sheet to prepare for the test. It is your responsibility to fully complete the review sheet. Students that spend a reasonable amount of time completing the review sheet usually have an advantage while taking the test.

Because it is your responsibility to check this website when you are not in class, you will always be expected to take the test on the day it is given, even if you were out the day we reviewed or even the day that the test was announced. If you are out the day that a test or quiz is given, you will be expected to take the test on the day you come back.

A few times over the course of the year, you will be expected to write a paper in lieu of taking a test. It is important that you take the paper assignment seriously, write it well, and pass it in on time. If you are absent the day your paper is due, you must email Mr. Hennessy a copy of the paper on time.

As always, it is your responsibility to email Mr. Hennessy with any questions regarding upcoming tests, quizzes, or papers.

For tips and suggestions regarding taking tests or writing papers, go to the Tips and Hints page on this website.

Homework and Classwork - 40%

Homework will be assigned most nights of the week. It is your responsibility to complete all homework assignments by the day they are due. Usually the work that is assigned to you will not take any longer than say, 30 minutes. Sometimes the work will be collected the day it is due, other times it will be checked within the classroom. There may even be a few occations that the work is not checked at all.

If, for some reason, you are not in class the day the work was assigned, it is your responsibility to check the calendar to see if the assignment has been posted online. Being absent is not an excuse for not completing the work that is due. If you are absent the day the work has been collected or checked, it is your responsibility to turn the work in the day you return. If you're unsure if the work was collected or checked when you were out, ask!

In addition to homework assignments, you will occationally be expected to complete work within the class period. If you are absent when classwork was given, it is again your responsibility to complete it on your own time then pass it in. Check the calendar to see updated classwork assignments.

Class Participation - 10%

Your participation grade increases when you:
Come to class awake with a positive attitude, a notebook, something to write with, and your text (when necessary)
Take notes in class
Ask questions in class
Seek help outside of class
Work well with your classmakes
Complete your homework and classwork on time
Regularly check this website

Your participation grade decreases when you:
Do not come to class
Ask to borrow something to write with
Sleep, don't take notes, or don't pay attention in class
Pack up your materials before class has ended
Eat food in class
Don't complete your homework or classwork on time
Are late to class without a note (you'll also most likely get a detention)
Constantly give excuses for not meeting defined expectations

Created by Michael Hennessy, Manchester NH
Updated July, 2007