Grading Policy
As is stated on the course syllabi, students earn grades based on both effort and achievement.
Achievement is measured one of two ways:
1) A set standard whereby:
90% correct is an A;
80% correct is a B;
70% correct is a C; and
60% correct is a D.
2) A modified curve whereby the mean student score is a C, no matter the percentage correct, and the highest student score is an A. (NOTE: This 'modified' curve does not fail the bottom ten percent).
My rationale for using a modified curve on occasion is that students should be given due credit when the curriculum is much more advanced than usual. Grading this way allows us all to aim high - to challenge ourselves - without putting our grades at unreasonable risk.
Regarding late assignments: Homework may be turned in ONE DAY late for HALF credit. Class assignments may NOT be turned in late. Students will be given ample time in class to finish all assignments.
The only exception to this policy is in the case of an excused absence. In the case of an excused absence, students will be offered the opportunity to negotiate a new deadline; however, the teacher's decision as to the deadline is final and binding.
In order to negotiate a new deadline and to clarify what is indeed due, students who have been absent MUST come in for a few minutes after school to speak privately with the teacher.