Parent+Information

**Your children need your presence more than your presents. ~Jesse Jackson

It's not only children who grow. Parents do too. As much as we watch to see what our children do with their lives, they are watching us to see what we do with ours. I can't tell my children to reach for the sun. All I can do is reach for it, myself. ~Joyce Maynard** I love when parents want to get involved in their child's education. I really feel it's important to the students success. Stating that, I am honored to have a section of my Wiki dedicated just to parents.

In this course we do study one novel, and that is Lord of the Flies by William Golding. I do understand that there are parts of this novel that may seem inappropriate to some parents. I assure you the positive things students can learn from this book greatly outweigh any of the negative aspects. Having said that, if you have any further questions regarding the material of this course I ask that first you do the following:

1. Read the book in its entirety. Reading something out of context is very misleading. 2. If you do see a problem with the material, what about it specifically do you feel is inappropriate?

From this novel I hope to begin teaching the student how literature effects both the past and present, in many different ways. This one novel can teach a student so many different things. On it's basic level the student learns the importance of voice, character, and setting when writing. As we dig deeper we will begin to understand symbolism, and it's importance. Here we can begin to show the student how literature can demonstrate not just a story, but people, places, and time. As well as the larger social issues that are abundant in this book particularly.


 * Teaching Philosophy**

In this class we will mix traditional methods of education, but will also include new technology that will capture the students attention, and make full use of their imagination, creative thinking, and problem-solving skills.Using these forms of technology also gives the students another tool to take with them into the world. Our education system is so far behind other developed countries so it is critical to involve technology in the classroom. We use several different types of technology to meet these goals. I truly believe the interaction and entertaining aspects of these technologies will keep the students engaged, which is a huge accomplishment in the classroom! If you would like to learn more about any of the tools we use, please feel free to contact me, or continue to explore the Wiki. There are examples prepared for all of the tools we use.


 * Classroom Policies**

It is my standard policy that I do not accept late work from students. I try to give them plenty of time to do things in class, and expect their full commitment to the assignments. If a student requests extra assistance before the assignment is due, I may make an exception as long as I can see they are truly giving it their best, and need more time because they are struggling. I want my students to be successful, responsible leaders and have very high expectations for them, as should you.

My classroom will be an environment for learning. Students are encouraged to ask questions and express themselves. In order to facilitate this type of environment for all of my students, I expect them to respect each other. I know not everyone will always get along, but I will not tolerate bullying or making fun of students under any circumstances.

Thank you for your participation! Mrs. Christine Potter