Grading

Grades are based on the percent of points earned in any given trimester.

Points are received for the following:
    •   Classwork – 5 to 10 points, frequently graded based on completion or participation.
    •   Homework – 5 to 10 points which may take the form of answering questions from reading, taking notes while reading, or taking a short “pop” quiz following the reading.
    •   Quizzes – 25 to 50 points each.  Quiz questions are relatively straightforward (e.g., “What is a volcano?”)
    •   Projects – 25 to 100 points each, depending on the length of the project.
    •   Tests – 100 points each.  Test questions are more complex (e.g., "How are plant and animal cells alike?") and students may use their journals as a resource during the test.
    •   Final Exam – 200 points.  The final exam is comprehensive and students may use their journals as a resource during the exam.

Grading Scale

93-100   A      87-89   B+      77-79   C+      67-69   D+      0-59   F
90 - 92   A-     83-86   B         73-76  C         63-66   D
                       80-82   B-       70-72  C-        60-62   D-

Academic Integrity

Students often seek assistance on homework or projects from family members or friends.  The operative word here is ASSISTANCE.  Unless specifically indicated, students are encouraged to discuss their homework and projects with family or other students to share insights and eliminate misunderstandings. Family involvement in proof-reading student work, particularly on large projects, is also encouraged, though the writing should retain the student’s own thoughts and style.  Collaboration of this type is not allowed on quizzes, tests, or the final exam.   

Copying another’s work and “working together” are not allowed except for specified group activities.  If a student is discovered copying from another, both parties will receive a zero grade and the lack of academic integrity will be documented. The students will be required to stay after school to demonstrate their understanding of the assignment.

Students may make any notes or drawings in their journals they believe will be helpful in answering test questions.  They may not, however, use any mechanical or digital copy process to transfer another’s work into their journal.  Any journal material, whether the student’s own thought or work copied from another source, must be in the journal through the student’s own writing or drawing.