Ms. White
awhite2@bssd.net
Spanish 1 Syllabus 2015-16
816-224-1315 ext. 50631
Blue Springs South HS Room 912
Course Description
Spanish 1 is an introductory course to the Spanish language and culture. Students will explore and utilize
Spanish daily in and out of class to increase reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills.
Materials Needed
1” binder with dividers
1 small memo pad
Classroom Expectations
1. Participate fully. Spanish is way more fun that way, I promise! 
2. Come to class prepared with a good attitude, necessary materials, and work or studying done.
3. Be respectful of the teacher and other students.
Cell phones
The use of electronic devices without prior teacher approval may distract students from learning
objectives. Therefore, these devices (cell phones, IPODs, etc.) will be confiscated if used
inappropriately/without teacher approval. The use of a cell phone in class results in 1 day of ISS, per the
student handbook.
Make-up / late work
It is the student’s responsibility to get any work that is missed due to an absence or school activity.
I will accept work one day late for a 50% reduction. Work handed in more than one day late will receive no
credit unless absences need to be factored in. Work is considered late if it is not done at the beginning of
the class period in which it is due.
Grades
It is the student’s responsibility to be aware of his/her grade. Participation has an effect on grades, as well
as quizzes, tests, and homework. Tests will be announced, and quizzes may not be. Students should study
regularly to keep up with the material learned in class.
Grading scale:
100-90%
A
89-80%
B
79-70%
C
69-60%
D
59% and below
F
Retake Policy
Students are allowed to retake quizzes and redo assignments at the teacher’s discretion. This usually
means that it is possible to retake or redo if the student is a willing participant in class, pays attention, and
it doing his/her best. Retake opportunities exist so the student has more time to learn or practice a
concept, and should not be used to put work off until a later time. The student should also set up a
tutoring time with Ms. White or another Spanish teacher to get extra help before retaking or redoing an
assignment.
Cheating
Cheating is absolutely not allowed in any form in Spanish class.
Using an online translator to translate more than an individual word or phrase is unacceptable. Ms.
White will teach students how to use a translator appropriately.
Cheating also includes asking a family member or friend that knows Spanish to help you on an entire
assignment or correct your work. Language learning takes a LOT of mistakes, so don’t worry about being
perfect all the time.
Any work received that has been translated/is not the student’s own work is an automatic zero and may
not be redone.
Studying
Even when you don’t have formal homework, it should be understood that you are studying your
vocabulary 5-10 minutes each night. Your memo pad should make this pretty easy!
Some ways to study vocabulary are:
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Make flashcards
Re-write the words multiple times
Label items at home
Challenge yourself to think of the word in Spanish when you see the item
Communication
Students should talk to Ms. White before/after school or at an appropriate time during class.
Communication is so vital to learning. Even if you have a “little” problem, I want to hear about it.
Parents should CALL Ms. White before/after school or during her plan time (9:15-10:05). This is the best
form of communication. Email is okay to simply communicate quick and easy info. Anything else should be
done on the phone (or in person if necessary).