Sixth Grade Social Studies Parent Guide Kelly Schanaberger Focus *World history from the Stone Age-Ancient Rome (approximately) Clas Class Format *We begin each class period with a challenge question. These questions range from geography to history to government and are done to introduce, review, or deepen the students’ understanding of certain topics. *A typical class period includes lots of student participation. I ask knowledge and comprehension questions, as well as higher level questions intended to get students to analyze and evaluate what they are learning. *We watch video clips, play review games, and when possible give students the opportunity to interact with the Smartboard. Late/Absent Work Policy *10% off if the assignment is one day late. 50 % is taken off if the assignment is turned in two days late. After the second day, a late assignment won’t be accepted. * An assignment is considered late if it is not brought to class on the day it is due. *1 make-up day is given for every day a student is absent (ex. absent 2 days, 2 days to complete the assignments/tests missed), unless there is a special circumstance. Grades *Again this year, parents can check their child’s grade on-line. Please check this on a weekly basis. * I will update my on-line gradebook weekly, typically on Sundays. Extra Credit *One smaller assignment (5-7 pts) is offered each trimester. Top 20 *Top 20 is an incentive competition for all 6th graders. *Students can earn points through participation in class discussions, winning in-class games, excellent behavior, just to name a few. Additional points can be earned by doing the on-line quizzes I post on my page a few times during the trimester. *At the end of the trimester, the sixth graders who are in the top 20% of the grade in terms of tiles earned, will be invited to a special lunch. Tips for Success *Ask questions in class if something is confusing. *Come for help in study hall or after school if needed. *Always complete study guides given for tests, even if they aren’t being collected for a grade. *Be in class every day. Lots of things happen during a class period that are not written on an absent work sheet. (discussions, video clips, announcements, etc.) I encourage you to check my website regularly, as I post the daily homework and a list of weekly highlights on my site. Please call or e-mail me any time during the course of the year if you have a question or concern about your child’s progress. I am happy to help any student who is struggling, or just wants some extra one on one help.