This system requires, first of all, an almost uncanny sense of estimating the possible number of points students can expect to make in any one marking period for an “A,” “B,” etc.Īnother feature that I strongly advise is the use of writing folders, which will be kept on file in the classroom. Baljevic have both successfully used the point system in their classes as an alternative grading system and after a year or so of teaching the basic skills course, perhaps I will feel confident enough to employ it also. For example, points would be given the student if certain requirements are met points would be taken away if they are not. If students become a little careless in this area, I have found that temporarily instituting a point system often works well. In addition, to reinforce the idea of personal responsibility I often tell students that I require them to bring daily to class an English notebook, pen or pencil, and the book currently being studied in class. I have found that a good “pep talk” at the beginning of the year usually suffices, and only occasionally will I be required to remind the students of their classroom behavior. I demand orderly behavior and consideration for others at all times. At times they may work with others, and then, of course, talking will be encouraged but they must realize the difference between discussion and mere chatter. Nothing can be learned, I tell them, by either them or me if no one is listening. Not unlike Annie Sullivan in her initial confrontation with Helen Keller, I find that students must know how I expect them to behave.
And while many of these students have been recommended by their freshman teacher because of a skills deficiency, some others, I understand, have voluntarily enrolled in the course.Įach September, no matter what kind of class I am about to teach, I find that I must set the ground rules concerning classroom behavior and responsibility.
Students enrolled in the class will be taking the course in addition to the English class all sophomores will be taking. Ranging from the knowledge of the alphabet to the ability to write complete sentences in an expository paragraph, the standards cover much territory. Next year at Hillhouse High School I will be teaching a course entitled “A Course in Basic Skills.” Offered to sophomores who have not completely mastered the freshman minimum standards this school year, the course purports to teach a mastery of these standards.
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