Course Requirements -

Note: There is no Regents exam for this class: this will free us up to engage in authentic learning tasks. However, you must pass this class to graduate.

1. Regular attendance: more than 12 absences (excused or unexcused) for the term usually results in failing the class. Each unexcused absence counts for 2 points off your class participation, unexcused late counts for 1 point.
2. Participation: your active involvement in class discussions (f2f and online) will have a big impact on your class participation grade. You can earn bonus points with your constructive participation. Raising good questions, helping others, etc. Deductions can be made to reflect distractive behavior.
3. Follow the Rules of the Computer Lab and Internet Acceptable Use Policy.

Rules of the Computer Lab:

a.) Computers are for class-related activities only, save recreational surfing for home, and no viewing of pornographic or gratuitously violent images.
b) No instant messenger use,
c) No memory sticks without my permission. You will be using Google Documents for storage.
d) No use of proxies to circumvent the filter,
e) NO FOOD, CANDY, GUM OR DRINKS visible, let alone consumed, in the computer lab.  This goes for teachers as well as students.
f) Never give anyone else your password: for the network, e-mail or otherwise.  Your password is your secret. Giving it to others allows them to assume your identity and get you in trouble.
g) Follow computer use protocols established in class: includes how to login and shut down the computer and other procedures as they will be introduced throughout the term. Push your chairs in when leaving!
h) Don't move or replace equipment (change mice or keyboards) without asking me first!

NYC Department of Ed. Internet Acceptable Use Policy (Summary for students) You can view the full document by clicking here

a) no sending racist, sexist, or otherwise harmful messages to others.  I realize this language is very vague, but do your best.
b) all in-school Internet use is for school-related activities only. You are being watched!
c) do not give out personal information (name, address, telephone.) to strangers on the Internet.
d) report to the teacher any disturbing e-mail or web content you may encounter.

4. Do your homework & review for tests.  We will have an occasional quiz related to the homework and what we have covered in class.  We will also have some tests that homework material will cover. Generally, homework is what you didn't have time to finish in class. You will have much to do related to your project.

5. Be an active participant in the group project. We will have one major project this term.  Multiple choice and other exams, outside of the doctor's office, don't exist beyond school.  However, working with others does and will for the rest of your life.  You will need to develop your collaboration skills and will have that opportunity in this class.

6. Follow the other school rules. For example: walkmans, coats, hats, etc. Follow the Golden Rule: Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

The Grade Breakdown:

Class Participation: 25%, Tests/Quizzes: 25%, Project: 25%, Notes 25%

I am always available to discuss your individual grade by appointment.
You can contact me at: jelfrank1@Gmail.com