WELCOME! Modern Humanities & Graduation Project 2015-2016 Mrs. Green and Mrs. Braband Course Description Modern Humanities examines the themes of human existence through the study of plays, novels, short stories, film, poetry, music and art, primarily of the 20th and 21st centuries. Participating in this course, students will develop stronger writing, communication and critical thinking skills. Students are required to read, write and think critically about all aspects of the Humanities as well as to participate in whole class and small group discussions. The Graduation Project process gives students the opportunity to choose an area of study to research, design and present. To conclude graduation project, students will orally present their entire process to a panel of judges made up of teachers and community members. Expectations In our classroom, students will be challenged to think critically about literature, drama and art and the synthesis of these elements as they make up Modern Humanities. Preparedness and punctuality are expected, as well as active participation in the learning process. Our classroom forms an intellectual community, and all students are expected to respect the members of our community and to keep an open mind as we embark on new areas of study. Be on time. (In the room BEFORE the late bell.) Be prepared (writing utensil, homework completed, etc.) Be respectful (Of yourself, your classmates and your instructors.) Participate! (This is a discussion based class, so you’ll need to speak up!) Materials Modern Humanities course texts will be provided to the students. A course binder (or folder) is needed for this class. Organization is a key element to meeting due dates and general preparedness for course assignments. Modern Humanities assignments will be announced in class, and reminders will be given for Graduation Project deadlines. Monthly calendars of assignments will be provided and posted on Mrs. Green’s teacher webpage. Course Syllabus is available on Mrs. Green’s teacher webpage, accessed through the SHS webpage. General Policies Humanities assignments are due on or before the due date. However, late work will be granted 50% of the grade earned if it is turned in on the next school day after the due date. Absences – It is your responsibility to make up any work missed. If assignments have been given before the day(s) of your absence, turn them in upon return to school. If you choose to cut class, you will receive a zero for any work due or completed in class that day. Exams – If you miss an exam, a pass will be issued to you to make up the test in the Assessment Center during a study hall or our class period. Alternate but equivalent test questions/formats may be substituted for make-up exams. If a student or parent/guardian has concerns relating to an assignment conflicting with the individual’s religious, social or moral values, the student may opt out of the assignment and an alternative equivalent assignment will be provided. Your performance in this class is your responsibility. If you need assistance with assignments or concepts covered in this course, please come to us for help. Otherwise, it is assumed that you are satisfied with the assessment of your work and need no assistance. Contact Information Our email addresses are: Mrs. Green greennt@svsd.net and Ms. Braband brabandsl@svsd.net. You may email us with questions/concerns if they arise. Note that emails sent after 2:55 pm will not be read until the following school day. Good Luck & Enjoy your Senior Year!