French 1 (Grade 8) ** Parents & Students please sign the back and return**
Mademoiselle Miller
2013 -2014 Class Syllabus White Plains Middle School
Course Information: This class is the third of a three-year sequence that will build upon your knowledge of the French language. You will improve your skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in French. We will also learn about a variety of Francophone cultures around the world. The topics we will cover are:
· Review of 6th and 7th grade curriculum
· Telephone & Discussing Past Events
· Clothing & Shopping
· Vacation & Travel
· Community
· Preparation for the Checkpoint A Proficiency Exam
Materials: It is very important that you come prepared to class each day. In addition to your large binder, please have the following:
· One folder: it should have 2 pockets and be sturdy (this will stay in the classroom)
· A pen or pencil
Grading Policy: Your grade will be calculated as follows:
· Tests & Quizzes = 40% (Weekly Quizzes, Unit Exams after each Unit)
· Participation = 25% (Classwork, Weekly Rubric Grades)
· Projects = 20% (Projects will be assigned for each unit)
· Homework = 15% (Assigned & Checked or Collected weekly)
A large portion of your grade comes from participation. In French class, this means that you will be asked to participate in tasks that mirror real-life communication situations. It is extremely important for you to participate in the various classroom activities so that you can prove what you can do. Participation means being prepared for class, active involvement in learning, and respect for yourself and others.
Homework provides opportunities to apply and practice what you have learned. However, you will experience even more success if you take time every day to study vocabulary and any grammar concepts you need to review. Visit my class website to find links that will allow you to practice your French.
If you need help: Extra Help is provided on Thursdays after school. I am also available Mondays or Tuesdays by appointment only. Please see me as soon as possible if you are struggling. This will allow us to work together to help you improve.
Classroom Rules
1. Show everyone in the classroom respect: your classmates, your teacher, and of course, yourself!
2. Come to class on time and be prepared: bring your homework, your materials, and your positive attitude. Be ready to speak French!
3. Stay on task: talk to your classmates only if I have directed you to do so, and follow all instructions the first time they are given.
4. Raise your hand to ask and answer questions.
Daily Procedures
1. Enter the classroom quietly and take your agenda sheet from the basket on the counter. Go directly to your assigned seat.
2. Take out your materials (notebook, homework, pen) and immediately begin working on the agenda sheet: fill in your name, the date, the weather, and begin the Do Now.
3. To be excused: raise your index finger, ask the appropriate question in French, and sign out.
4. Notes should be taken in your notebook, not on your agenda sheet.
Absences and Make-Up Work
If you are absent it is your responsibility to make up any work you missed. Check your class period file for the dittos that were distributed on the day of your absence.
If you miss a test and were in school for the review, you will be expected to take it on the day you return. Make up tests must be taken before school, after school, or during your lunch period. Class time will not be used to make up a test. I will not chase you down to get you to make up a test; it is up to you to schedule the time to take it. All missed tests/quizzes must be made up within two weeks, or they will go down in the grade book as a zero.
I have read and understand the requirements of this class.
Student Name (Please print): ______
Parent/Guardian Signature: ______