MOVIN’ ON UP
Tips for Surviving English 9

With summer over and the school year ahead, it is time to start thinking about ways to be successful in school.  English 9 may have been the furthest thing from your mind while you were out on the lake or basking in the sun, but it’s time to redirect your thinking.  Here are some helpful tips for surviving English 9 and your other classes this year:

Respect yourself, the school, your classmates, and Miss Carlson

Come to class on time and ready to learn—with the necessary items (paper, pen or pencil, books, homework)

Do your homework on time—don’t forget to turn it in!

Ask questions if the directions are unclear—if you’re not sure, someone else probably has the same question

Do you best and have a positive attitude

By following these simple suggestions, English 9 can actually be a lot of fun—believe it or not!

I know what I did last summer!

   Now that I am beginning my  5^th year as an English teacher at Beal City Schools, most students recognize me.  My first year of English 8 students are now seniors—which makes me feel very old!  Ten years ago I was beginning my senior year at North Dickinson High School. 

   As always, I made the voyage this summer back to my home town of Sagola which is in the Upper Peninsula. (Yep, I’m a yooper!)  While there, I began to reminisce about all of the things I liked to do when I was in school.  Like you, I loved to spend time with my friends!  I also played basketball, was in the band, served as the president of my class, and was the secretary of the student council.  This is also where I got my start in photography, as a photographer for the yearbook.

   Reminiscing isn’t the only thing I did this summer.  I also took classes for six weeks at CMU.  I am getting my master’s degree in Middle Level Education.  In my classes, I learned a lot about young adolescents, and some new ways to be the best teacher I can be.

Although those classes took the majority of my summer, I also found time to do the things I like to do.  I read a few books, spent time with my friends and family, walked A LOT, and traveled some.  You may have even seen me dipping ice cream at the Cool Dip!  Now I am well rested, and I am looking forward to another exciting year with the class of 2008!

CLASSROOM PROCEDURES
Now that you are in the 9^th grade, it may seem as if you are back to the bottom of the food chain.  Luckily for you, you get to end each day in a familiar place with familiar expectations.

Just in case your brain is still on summer mode, here is a review of what to do in Miss Carlson’s class: Be ready to go at the beginning of the class period.  If Miss Carlson is standing in the front of the room, it is time to start. Most days there will be instructions for you on the board at the beginning of the hour.  This helps you to know what is expected of you. No one is to touch anything on/in Miss Carlson’s desk without permission.  This goes for the computer area in the back of the classroom as well. The supply shelves are stocked with supplies for your use.  You are welcome to use them, but please put everything back where you found it. Ignore all bells you hear in this room.  I will dismiss you when it is time to go. Bring only appropriate materials to class.  Any “toys”, food, or other distractions need to stay in your locker. In addition, all of the handbook rules and procedures also apply in Miss Carlson’s class.

After you have read the information, sign below.  Share the information with a parent or guardian, and please have them sign as well. _________________________________ Student  _________________________________ Parent/Guardian GRADING SCALE: THE WAY TO AN “A”   A             100-93                   C+          79-77  A-            90-92                     C             76-73                                                 C-            72-77  B+           89-87  B              86-83                     D+          69-67  B-            82-80                     D             66-63                                                 D-            62-60  BELOW A 60 IS AN E.  LATE WORK WILL BE ACCEPTED, BUT THERE IS  A 10% PENALTY FOR EACH DAY IT IS LATE

Communication
The Key to Success!

If you have any questions, let me know.  The best time to reach me is between 12:00-1:30.  I also check my email daily: jcarlson@edzone.net  Please, let me know of anything I can do to help your student be successful this year.  I look forward to meeting you---or seeing you again!

                        Thanks!
                        Miss Jodi Carlson