Spanish I (Block) – Syllabus
Instructor / Señora Cochran (2202)Señora Garcia (2204) / Phone / TBA
Office Hours / By appointment, after school ONLY
Monday and Wednesday / Email/blogs /
See North Cobb blogs
Classroom Code of Ethics
Today I will strive to do my very best.
I will arrive to class on time with everything I need.
I will listen, and I will follow directions the first time.
I will be honest, and I will not take the easier road.
I will respect and appreciate the rights of others.
I will be tolerant of cultural differences.
I will be supportive of everyone in the room.
I will share my ideas with others in an appropriate manner.
I can learn, and I will keep trying.
I will ask for help when I need it.
I will learn--You see, I am responsible.
My own success depends on me.
Course Description
The Level I language course focuses on the development of communicative competence in the target language and understanding of the culture(s) of the people who speak the language. It assumes that the students have minimal or no prior knowledge of the language and culture. This course may be taught over two years (e.g., middle school programs), over one year (e.g., traditional high school programs), or during one semester (e.g., 4 x 4 block schedule). The major means of communication between students and instructors will be in the target language. Because students may begin formal language learning at various stages of their cognitive development, teachers must adjust vocabulary and content to reflect developmentally appropriate interests. An important component of language classes is the use of the language beyond the classroom in the real world. The integration of technology is an important tool in accessing authentic information in the target language and in providing students the opportunity to interact with native speakers. By the end of Level I, students will exhibit Novice-Mid level proficiency in speaking and writing and Novice-High level proficiency in listening, and reading (ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines, 1999).
The following concepts from Bloom’s Taxonomy will be taught.
· Analysis: analyze, appraise, calculate, categorize, compare, contrast, criticize, differentiate, discriminate, distinguish, examine, experiment, question, and test.
· Synthesis: arrange, assemble, collect, compose, construct, create, design, develop, formulate, manage, organize, plan, prepare, propose, set up, and write.
· Evaluation: appraise, argue, assess, attach, choose compare, defend estimate, judge, predict, rate, core, select, support, value, evaluate.
Grading: Grading Scale:
Speaking /Reading/Writing/Listening 20% 100-90 A
Quizzes on Vocabulary and grammar 20% 89-80 B
Performance based Test 30% 79-74 C
Homework 10% 73-70 D
Final 20%
Methodology and Learning Activities:
The methodology and learning activities in Spanish class will consist of oral presentations, cooperative learning projects, performance based tasks such as role-playing and skits, peer writing and review, vocabulary games, song and rhyme making, web quests and other online assignments, reading groups, listening stations, games, etc. The students will be required to speak in the target language. No students may use electronic devices to record classmate or teacher without express written consent.
Any violation of the previous statement will be construed as an invasion of personal privacy. No cell phone or electronic devices are allowed in class
Curriculum Connections:
Mathematics, Science, Language Arts and Social Studies, Art, Reading, Music
Make Up Work
All assignments are due according to the handbook. Your child will be asked to obtain 2 study buddies in the event that he or she is absent. The study buddy will collect papers and information for him or her. It is his or her responsibility to copy notes and set up an appointment if any information that is not clear. Please check the blog for homework assignments and assessment information. “I was absent that day is not an acceptable excuse in my class.” In case of an emergency situation, PLEASE see me.
Homework
All work is due when is assigned. Deadline and dates are always written and told orally in advanced. Students will be asked to establish two study buddies. Then, they will exchange telephone and e-mail. In the event that he or she is absent for whatever reason, he or she is to get notes and handouts from the buddy. If he or she is confused about the lesson or notes, he or she must sign up for tutoring. Tutoring is on Monday and Wednesday. 3:30-4:30 by appointment only! I do not accept partial work. It is not given any credit. As a school, that emphasizes rigor, I expect students to perform at a high level. Homework is given five to six times a semester. It is for practice and reinforcement of standards taught in class. Students are expected to do homework on the date that it is due. Students are expected to study nightly (20-30 minutes) depending on his or her grade. Please check the blog for homework assignments.
Discipline Policy:
1st Offense - Verbal Warning ( depends on the offense)
2nd Offense -Student-Teacher Conference and possible teacher assigned detention
3rd Offense -Contact Parents by Phone or Letter, Detention
4th Offense -Parent-Student-Teacher Conference, Detention
5th Offense -Administrative Referral
Materials
Bring to class everyday his or her work book, binder, blue or black ink pen, highlighters and a Spanish-English Dictionary. Students are required to use a 2 ½ inch binder or bigger. A pocket dictionary is necessary and a worth while investment in your child’s education.
Receipt and Acknowledgment of Syllabus and Welcome Letter
I acknowledged that this syllabus provides a guideline for grading, pacing and instruction and may be revised to meet instructional or class needs. I have received and reviewed this syllabus and understandthat I can earn a high school credit upon successful completion of this course. I further understand that I am expected to participate and demonstrate proficiency in the areas of listening, reading, writing and speaking.
· I have read and understand the grading system ______(parent initials) ______(student initial)
· I have read and understand the tutoring policy ______(parent initials) ______(student initial)
· I have read and understand the use of electronic device in the classroom ______(parent initials) ______(student initial)
I acknowledge that this welcome letter provides contact information, classroom rules and procedures and may be revised to meet instructional or class needs. I have received and reviewed this welcome letter and understandwhat is expected of me (my child). I further understand that I (my child) am/is expected adhere to guidelines that outline student conduct. I am responsible for my child’s study habits and making sure he/ she is prepared, prompt, and productive.
Class: ______Block ______
Student: (print)______(sign) ______(date)______
Parent/guardian: (print) ______(sign) ______