What's up?
So, you have some questions. Great! I think you'll find the answers here.
Remember, you can always refer to your class syllabus and the Technological Classroom document.
Otherwise, let's go over some things...
Remember, you can always refer to your class syllabus and the Technological Classroom document.
Otherwise, let's go over some things...
FAQ:
Q. Why are we learning virtually if we are in school?
A. First of all, student and staff safety is the number one priority during this difficult time. Keeping everyone distanced from each other will be difficult, but reducing the need to move around the room, negating the use of paper as much as possible, and refraining from sharing any class materials will certainly help in that regard. Also, learning in a hybrid/virtual situation is a skill set that is quickly becoming incredibly valuable. Whether it is in college, a vocational program, a job/career, or simply a high school class, being able to learn with a mixture of in-person and virtual platforms is critical. It is our belief that a hybrid option will not only keep this unusual year more stable for students, it will also assist them in learning how to learn online.
Q. How will a typical class period be structured?
A. This will vary depending on the units we are covering, the most current recommendations of the CDC and local health professionals, the health and safety of both students and staff, and will be considered an evolving process. Generally, though, students will regularly log in to their Google Classroom, a virtual portal where they will access daily/weekly activities and assignments related to course content. Unfortunately, much of the traditional aspects of in-class learning will not be utilized in the typical ways. We will have to be creative in how we can collaborate as a class virtually. For example, if there is a group assignment, students will not meet in close proximity, but rather, will have to do so virtually or socially distanced. Again, this is an unprecedented time and we will be working through this together in the safest way possible.
Q. What happens to our class if the school campus closes and we move to distance learning only?
A. As we have seen with other school districts throughout the nation, and the way events transpired last spring, it is possible that our school could move to full online learning at any time. This is one of the main reasons why this year, our history classes have been set up to be virtual friendly. Should school close and distance learning become the only option, class would proceed as relatively "normal" as it has been since the start of this school year. Students should log in to their Google Classroom and follow all directions.
Q. Am I going to get a textbook?
A. In order to help students access class materials from anywhere and at any time, we are not going to be using the usual textbooks. The good news? You won't have anything to haul around! Any text used in class will be provided for you via a PDF file, website link, or other electronic format. However, if you need a copy of text, please let me know as soon as possible. This will be provided for you by printout.
Q. What exactly do I need to sign and return to start the class?
A. You and a parent/guardian need to sign and return two documents to start the course. First, you will need to read and sign the Technological Classroom Expectations document located here. Second, depending on what course you are taking, you will need to review and sign the class syllabus agreement. There is a separate one for World History and for U.S. History. Please consider returning these documents electronically via a picture or other method since we are trying to keep things as paperless as possible.
Q. Why does the class syllabus only cover one semester? Isn't this class scheduled for two semesters?
A. Yes, your class runs for two semesters (four marking periods). However, given the likelihood of changes that may occur as the school year progresses, the class syllabus is going to cover only the first semester. This allows us to reevaluate how things went and make any changes we feel are needed as a class. You will get another syllabus at the start of the second semester.
Q. What websites will I need to access my assignments?
A. We will be using Google Classroom primarily. However, we will be using this website too; consider this as a helpful page. Periodically, you will be directed to my school website. But, everything will be linked and you will be specifically directed to the location of your materials. The main log in location for the class will be in Google Classroom. We will also be using various websites for lessons and activities that contain maps, videos, articles, games, etc. as connectivity allows. Again, you'll be directed to them within each lesson.
Q. How do I turn in my assignments?
A. This year, we are trying to encourage social distancing and reduce the contact each person has with potentially contaminated materials. Thus, all assignments (unless otherwise directed) will be turned in electronically. If you are unfamiliar with how to turn in your work, there is a tutorial for you that explains this process. Check it out.
Q. What if there's a problem submitting my assignment in Google Classroom?
A. Any assignment not sent through Google Classroom should be approved in advance by your teacher. You will be required to follow the format explained in the Technological Classroom document. But, sometimes errors occur. If you notice that your Google Classroom isn't working properly, or you are concerned about whether your work will be received, you may want to email me your work as a file or a picture. Contact me immediately if you have any questions or if something like this occurs. I will get back with you as soon as possible.
Q. Can I get assignments in advance to work ahead?
A. Unfortunately, that is not something being offered at this time. While you may be able to look ahead at some of the materials on this site, you will not be able to submit anything in Google Classroom until it is "active." Given the possibility for instantaneous changes in school and curriculum this year, it is better for students if they do not work too far in advance. Major changes may occur! We will be working through the course together as a class.
Q. Are assignments really only due three days a week?
A. Yes. Under the current plan, all assignments will be due by midnight (12 a.m.) on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Please note that this may have to change if our class format changes. You will be notified of this immediately. All assignments will follow this schedule unless otherwise indicated (such as larger projects or formal assessments). For an explanation on how this works, check your class syllabus.
Q. Can I turn in this week's assignments early?
A. Yes! You do not need to wait until Wednesday or Friday to turn in your work.
Q. What if I turn in an assignment late?
A. I will be following the late policy as outlined in your class syllabus.
Q. How will I be graded?
A. The criteria for grading will be established and outlined on the class syllabus. Each assignment will also include instructions and will indicate what is expected. Online learning is very similar to an on-campus class experience; in this case the classroom is virtual.
Q. How do I get my grades?
A. While there is a grade book function in Google Classroom, we will be using PowerSchool for your official grades. Log in to PowerSchool regularly to keep up on your progress.
Q. What if I get sick or miss school?
A. Important note: If you feel sick or have any of the symptoms related to Covid-19, do not attend school. Make sure you follow the school district's Covid-19 response plan. You can contact the high school office for more details.
As far as your class, the good thing about this hybrid format is you will always be able to access your assignments from anywhere with an electronic device and internet connection. Of course, you will get as many days as you are absent to complete the work. This absent work policy is explained in the class syllabus. Students with connectivity restrictions will be accommodated accordingly. Contact me for details if this impacts you.
A. First of all, student and staff safety is the number one priority during this difficult time. Keeping everyone distanced from each other will be difficult, but reducing the need to move around the room, negating the use of paper as much as possible, and refraining from sharing any class materials will certainly help in that regard. Also, learning in a hybrid/virtual situation is a skill set that is quickly becoming incredibly valuable. Whether it is in college, a vocational program, a job/career, or simply a high school class, being able to learn with a mixture of in-person and virtual platforms is critical. It is our belief that a hybrid option will not only keep this unusual year more stable for students, it will also assist them in learning how to learn online.
Q. How will a typical class period be structured?
A. This will vary depending on the units we are covering, the most current recommendations of the CDC and local health professionals, the health and safety of both students and staff, and will be considered an evolving process. Generally, though, students will regularly log in to their Google Classroom, a virtual portal where they will access daily/weekly activities and assignments related to course content. Unfortunately, much of the traditional aspects of in-class learning will not be utilized in the typical ways. We will have to be creative in how we can collaborate as a class virtually. For example, if there is a group assignment, students will not meet in close proximity, but rather, will have to do so virtually or socially distanced. Again, this is an unprecedented time and we will be working through this together in the safest way possible.
Q. What happens to our class if the school campus closes and we move to distance learning only?
A. As we have seen with other school districts throughout the nation, and the way events transpired last spring, it is possible that our school could move to full online learning at any time. This is one of the main reasons why this year, our history classes have been set up to be virtual friendly. Should school close and distance learning become the only option, class would proceed as relatively "normal" as it has been since the start of this school year. Students should log in to their Google Classroom and follow all directions.
Q. Am I going to get a textbook?
A. In order to help students access class materials from anywhere and at any time, we are not going to be using the usual textbooks. The good news? You won't have anything to haul around! Any text used in class will be provided for you via a PDF file, website link, or other electronic format. However, if you need a copy of text, please let me know as soon as possible. This will be provided for you by printout.
Q. What exactly do I need to sign and return to start the class?
A. You and a parent/guardian need to sign and return two documents to start the course. First, you will need to read and sign the Technological Classroom Expectations document located here. Second, depending on what course you are taking, you will need to review and sign the class syllabus agreement. There is a separate one for World History and for U.S. History. Please consider returning these documents electronically via a picture or other method since we are trying to keep things as paperless as possible.
Q. Why does the class syllabus only cover one semester? Isn't this class scheduled for two semesters?
A. Yes, your class runs for two semesters (four marking periods). However, given the likelihood of changes that may occur as the school year progresses, the class syllabus is going to cover only the first semester. This allows us to reevaluate how things went and make any changes we feel are needed as a class. You will get another syllabus at the start of the second semester.
Q. What websites will I need to access my assignments?
A. We will be using Google Classroom primarily. However, we will be using this website too; consider this as a helpful page. Periodically, you will be directed to my school website. But, everything will be linked and you will be specifically directed to the location of your materials. The main log in location for the class will be in Google Classroom. We will also be using various websites for lessons and activities that contain maps, videos, articles, games, etc. as connectivity allows. Again, you'll be directed to them within each lesson.
Q. How do I turn in my assignments?
A. This year, we are trying to encourage social distancing and reduce the contact each person has with potentially contaminated materials. Thus, all assignments (unless otherwise directed) will be turned in electronically. If you are unfamiliar with how to turn in your work, there is a tutorial for you that explains this process. Check it out.
Q. What if there's a problem submitting my assignment in Google Classroom?
A. Any assignment not sent through Google Classroom should be approved in advance by your teacher. You will be required to follow the format explained in the Technological Classroom document. But, sometimes errors occur. If you notice that your Google Classroom isn't working properly, or you are concerned about whether your work will be received, you may want to email me your work as a file or a picture. Contact me immediately if you have any questions or if something like this occurs. I will get back with you as soon as possible.
Q. Can I get assignments in advance to work ahead?
A. Unfortunately, that is not something being offered at this time. While you may be able to look ahead at some of the materials on this site, you will not be able to submit anything in Google Classroom until it is "active." Given the possibility for instantaneous changes in school and curriculum this year, it is better for students if they do not work too far in advance. Major changes may occur! We will be working through the course together as a class.
Q. Are assignments really only due three days a week?
A. Yes. Under the current plan, all assignments will be due by midnight (12 a.m.) on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Please note that this may have to change if our class format changes. You will be notified of this immediately. All assignments will follow this schedule unless otherwise indicated (such as larger projects or formal assessments). For an explanation on how this works, check your class syllabus.
Q. Can I turn in this week's assignments early?
A. Yes! You do not need to wait until Wednesday or Friday to turn in your work.
Q. What if I turn in an assignment late?
A. I will be following the late policy as outlined in your class syllabus.
Q. How will I be graded?
A. The criteria for grading will be established and outlined on the class syllabus. Each assignment will also include instructions and will indicate what is expected. Online learning is very similar to an on-campus class experience; in this case the classroom is virtual.
Q. How do I get my grades?
A. While there is a grade book function in Google Classroom, we will be using PowerSchool for your official grades. Log in to PowerSchool regularly to keep up on your progress.
Q. What if I get sick or miss school?
A. Important note: If you feel sick or have any of the symptoms related to Covid-19, do not attend school. Make sure you follow the school district's Covid-19 response plan. You can contact the high school office for more details.
As far as your class, the good thing about this hybrid format is you will always be able to access your assignments from anywhere with an electronic device and internet connection. Of course, you will get as many days as you are absent to complete the work. This absent work policy is explained in the class syllabus. Students with connectivity restrictions will be accommodated accordingly. Contact me for details if this impacts you.