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Middle School Handbook Content 12-13
MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENT HANDBOOK 2012 -‐ 2013 Name Grade Advisor Tel. Mr. Larry McIlvain, Superintendent Ms. Rhonda Isley, Middle School Principal Ms. Maha Ismail, Middle School Counselor Fully accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools T 962 6 581-‐3944 | F 962 6 582-‐3357 | www.acsamman.edu.jo Middle School Student Handbook Table of Contents ACS Mission Statement ....................................................................................................... 4 ACS Belief Statements .......................................................................................................... 4 ACS Identity Statement ........................................................................................................ 4 School Procedures ................................................................................................................ 6a Important Dates ................................................................................................................... 6 Middle School Life ......................................................................................................... 7 Master Timetable .................................................................................................... 7 Academic Program .................................................................................................. 7 One-‐to-‐One Laptop Program ................................................................................... 7 Advisory Program .................................................................................................... 7 Exploratory .............................................................................................................. 7 Counseling ............................................................................................................... 7 Student Recognition ............................................................................................... 8 Lockers and Locks .................................................................................................... 8 Adventure Jordan .................................................................................................... 9 Academic Policies ........................................................................................................... 10 Grades ..................................................................................................................... 10 Report Cards ............................................................................................................ 10 Grade Point Average ............................................................................................... 10 Honor Roll ................................................................................................................ 11 Honor Roll Assemblies ............................................................................................ 11 Incomplete Grades ................................................................................................. 11 PowerSchool ............................................................................................................ 11 Moodle .................................................................................................................... 11 Agenda ..................................................................................................................... 11 Hall Passes ............................................................................................................... 11 Homework ............................................................................................................... 11 Missing Work ........................................................................................................... 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences .................................................................................. 12 Student-‐led Conferences ......................................................................................... 12 Elective Class Change Procedures ........................................................................... 12 Physical Education ................................................................................................... 12 English As A Second Language ................................................................................. 13 Textbooks ............................................................................................................... 13 ACS Code of Student Ethics ............................................................................................ 13 Student Responsibilities ................................................................................................ 15 Attendance .............................................................................................................. 15 Make Up Work ........................................................................................................ 15 2 Middle School Student Handbook Truancy and Suspension .......................................................................................... 16 Tardiness ................................................................................................................. 16 Telephones and Mobile Phones .............................................................................. 16 School Nurse ............................................................................................................ 16 Library Media Resource Center ............................................................................... 17 Computer Use .......................................................................................................... 17 Withdrawal .............................................................................................................. 17 Athletics and Activities ................................................................................................... 17 Extracurricular Activities .......................................................................................... 17 Middle School Athletics ........................................................................................... 17 Student Council ....................................................................................................... 18 Dances ..................................................................................................................... 18 National Junior Honor Society ................................................................................. 18 Participation in Junior Varsity Events ...................................................................... 19 Medical Forms ........................................................................................................ 19 Good Conduct Policy .............................................................................................. 19 Travel ...................................................................................................................... 19 ACS Code of Student Conduct ........................................................................................ 19 Integrity, Respect, Intellectual Growth ................................................................... 19 Bullying .................................................................................................................... 21 Bystanders ............................................................................................................... 21 Cyberbullying ........................................................................................................... 21 Consequences .......................................................................................................... 21 Student Dress Code ................................................................................................ 22 Nuisance Items ........................................................................................................ 22 Theft ........................................................................................................................ 23 School Rules ............................................................................................................ 23 Disciplinary Actions ................................................................................................ 23 Drug, Alcohol and Tobacco Free Campus ............................................................... 24 Technology at ACS ......................................................................................................... 24 ACS Responsible Use Policy .................................................................................... 24 School Procedures ......................................................................................................... 26 After-‐School Activities ............................................................................................ 26 Announcements ..................................................................................................... 26 Bicycles and Motor Vehicles ................................................................................... 27 Communication ...................................................................................................... 27 Drinking Water ....................................................................................................... 27 English Language Usage .......................................................................................... 27 Field Trips ............................................................................................................... 27 Insurance ................................................................................................................ 27 3 Middle School Student Handbook Lost and Found ....................................................................................................... 27 Security of School and Grounds .............................................................................. 27 Snow Days .............................................................................................................. 28 Transportation ......................................................................................................... 28 Tutoring .................................................................................................................. 28 Visitors to Campus .................................................................................................. 28 Writing: Six Traits .................................................................................................... 29 Student Laptop User Guide ........................................................................................... 31 4 Middle School Student Handbook Our Mission ACS inspires individuals to become self-‐motivated learners and active citizens who demonstrate respect, act with integrity, and seek intellectual growth in a culture of high expectations. Our Belief Statements 1. We believe students learn best in a safe and nurturing environment. 2. We believe embracing diversity strengthens our community and enriches our lives. 3. We believe well-‐rounded individuals are prepared to adjust to a rapidly-‐changing world. 4. We believe when students are actively engaged in the learning process, learning becomes irresistible. Our Identity Statement The American Community School of Amman, Jordan, is a U.S. accredited, independent, non-‐ profit, Pre-‐K through grade 12 school that offers a rigorous U.S. curriculum with an international and regional focus to a diverse, multi-‐cultural population distinguished by a supportive and cohesive community. 5 Middle School Student Handbook SCHOOL PROCEDURES School Hours Office hours during school days Grades 1 – 12 students Summer schedule June 28 – August 12 High School Lunch Time Grades 6 – 8 7:30 am – 4:00 pm 8:00 am – 3:00 pm 9:00 am – 12:00 noon 11:26 am – 11:55 am Important Dates 1st Quarter 2nd Quarter 3rd Quarter 4th Quarter End of Quarter November 7, 2012 January 24, 2013 March 28, 2013 June 19, 2013 Report Card Dates November 19, 2012 February 4, 2013 April 17, 2013 June 19, 2013 August 26 August 27 August 28 Oct. 25 – Nov. 3(tentative*) November 15 November 22 December 21 -‐ January 5 January 20-‐24 February 5 February 17 April 5-‐13 May 1 May 5-‐6 June 12-‐17 June 18 June 19 Registration for new families New Student Orientation First day of school Eid Al-‐Adha Holiday Islamic New Year Holiday Thanksgiving Holiday Christmas/New Year Holiday Semester 1 Exams (see pg. 10) Prophet’s Birthday Holiday Presidents’ Day Spring Break Jordan Labor Day Holiday Easter Holiday Semester 2 Exams (see pg. 10) High School Graduation Day Last Day of School *Please check the website (www.acsmman.edu.jo) for updates. All Islamic holidays are subject to change according to the Lunar Calendar. Parent/Teacher/Student Conference Dates October 23, 2012 October 24, 2012 April 24, 2013 April 25, 2013 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon 6 Middle School Student Handbook Student Led Conferences Dates April 29, 2012 April 30, 2012 12:00 noon to 7:00 p.m. 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 noon MIDDLE SCHOOL LIFE Master Timetable TIME 8:00 – 9:25 9:27 – 9:56 Day 1 A Advisory/ Exploratory 10:00 – 11:21 B Elective 11:21 – 11:55 Lunch 12:00 – 1:28 C 1:33 – 3:00 D Day 2 E Advisory/ Exploratory F Elective Lunch G H Day 3 D Advisory/ Exploratory B Elective Lunch C A Day 4 H Advisory/ Exploratory F Elective Lunch G E ACADEMIC PROGRAM -‐ The ACS Middle School academic program consists of five core classes-‐ language arts, mathematics, social studies, science, and physical education-‐ and two student-‐ selected electives. There are four classes each day, and all classes are 87 minutes long. ONE-‐TO-‐ONE LAPTOPS -‐ ACS Middle School strives to educate students for the 21st Century and beyond. To achieve this, students must have daily access to appropriate tools. Therefore, each student is required to bring a laptop to school. Please see the following sections computer policies, procedures, and appropriate usage. ADVISORY PROGRAM -‐ Daily from 9:30-‐10:00 AM students meet for Advisory. The ACS Middle School Advisory Program aims to address the unique challenges middle school students face. The primary focus is on developing character and developing social and emotional skills. Students examine issues such as friendship, organization, conflict, tobacco and alcohol, and more. Each lesson and unit is catered to the specific needs of each grade level. As ACS is a one-‐to-‐one laptop school, an additional focus of the Advisory program is on laptop care, online safety, and issues of cyber-‐etiquette. EXPLORATORY – The ACS Middle School Exploratory Program aims to add student choice and exposure to new learning. Alternating with Advisory units, teachers offer high-‐interest mini-‐ courses in areas outside common academic areas. Past courses have included Crime Scene Investigation, Crochet, Building Challenges, Claymation, Photoshop, Digital Photography, Chess, and more. COUNSELING -‐ The basic goal of the counseling program is to provide information and assistance which will help each student to achieve as much success as possible during his/her 7 Middle School Student Handbook time at ACS and in the future. The Counselor meets with students, parents, and teachers in order to achieve this goal. The counseling program includes: personal, academic, career, and other student-‐related activities. In cases of severe or chronic counseling concerns, the counselor may refer students to community professionals. All students are encouraged to meet with the Counselor. Students may obtain teacher permission during class, or drop in before and afterschool and/or during lunch. STUDENT RECOGNITION – Student who demonstrate outstanding respect, integrity, and intellectual growth are recognized in monthly Celebrate Achievement and Recognize Excellence (CARE) Assemblies. Both teachers and students nominate students for Sting Award recognition. LOCKERS AND LOCKS -‐ Students in grades six to eight will be assigned lockers for their books and valuables and a combination lock to be returned at the end of the school year. To prevent theft students are encouraged to use their lockers and should not share a locker or their lock combination with any other student. Both book lockers and gym lockers should always be kept locked. Valuables should be locked in gym lockers or book lockers to deter theft. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. Tampering with other students’ lockers will result in disciplinary action. Lockers may be inspected periodically. Lost locks must be replaced at student’s expense. 8 Middle School Student Handbook ADVENTURE JORDAN -‐ Adventure Jordan expands learning outside the school walls to take advantage of the wonderful educational opportunities Jordan has to offer. The goal is to make learning more relevant, authentic, hands-‐on, and, of course, fun! Each trip integrates reading, writing, and specific curricula areas of each grade level. The map below shows the locations, and descriptions, and months of the 2012-‐13 ACS Middle School Adventure Jordan program. Ajloun, 8th Grade, September Students e xplore and study the ecology and history of this unique region a nd participate in team building activities. Azraq and Shawmari Wildlife Reserve, 6th Grade, April Students discover the history of the region-‐ focusing on environmental issues with loss of the oasis. Dead Sea, 6th Grade, September Students investigate the science behind the Dead Sea. Wadi Dana & Feynan, 7th Grade, April In the exploration of the ecology of the region, students hike from Dana to Feynan. Karak Castle, 7th Grade, September Students immerse themselves in the history and science behind this ancient site. Wadi Rum, Petra, & Aqaba, 8th Grade, April On this four day-‐three night trip, students explore the ecology, history, and impact of humans of these amazing sites in this once-‐in-‐a -‐lifetime trip to world-‐renowned sites! http://na2.visitjordan.com/visitjordan-na/JordanMap/tabid/98/Default.aspx 9 Middle School Student Handbook ACADEMIC POLICIES GRADES -‐ Grades 6 – 8 use the following grading system on report cards: A+ – 98% – 100% P – Pass A – 93% – 97% F – Fail A-‐ – 90% – 92% I – Incomplete B+ – 88% – 89% B – 83% – 87% Respect Indicators B-‐ – 80% – 82% O – Outstanding C+ – 78% – 79% S – Satisfactory C – 73% – 77% N – Needs Improvement C-‐ – 70% – 72% D+ – 68% – 69% D – 63% – 67% D-‐ – 60% – 62% F – Below 60% REPORT CARDS -‐ Report cards are issued at the end of each quarter and indicate the student’s progress during the quarter. Semester grades are issued at the end of the second and fourth quarter. In order for a student to receive her/his report card, all obligations (fees, library books, text books, etc.) must be cleared. GRADE POINT AVERAGE (GPA)– Students Grade Point Average (GPA) in calculated at the end of each quarter and semester. All courses receiving credit (except for pass/fail courses) are used in calculating the GPA. ACS does not rank students. Point Equivalents: A+ = 4.3 A = 4.0 A-‐ = 3.7 B+ = 3.3 B = 3.0 B-‐ = 2.7 C+ = 2.3 C = 2.0 C-‐ = 1.7 D+ = 1.3 D = 1.0 D-‐ = 0.7 F = 0 10 Middle School Student Handbook HONOR ROLL -‐ All Honor Roll students will be recognized at the end of each quarter. 1. Highest Honor Roll-‐ GPA 3.75 and above 2. High Honor Roll-‐ GPA 3.50 to 3.74 3. Honor Roll-‐ GPA 3.25 to 3.49 HONOR ROLL ASSEMBLIES – All students achieving Honor Roll are recognized in quarterly Honor Roll Assemblies. INCOMPLETE GRADES -‐ Students who receive an Incomplete (I) grade for a marking period are allowed a maximum of two weeks-‐ 10 school days-‐ to complete the missing work and have the grade changed. If the incomplete is not removed within the time period the grade will change to a failing grade (F). It is the student’s responsibility to ensure that the work is completed and turned in to the teacher for grading within the two weeks. Students with incomplete grades do not qualify for Honor Roll. POWERSCHOOL -‐ PowerSchool is an online grade book for all ACS classes. Students and parents can find current class grades, as well as missing assignments. Teachers expect all students and parents to log into PowerSchool and check the progress in classes at least once or twice a week. If you ever lose your user name or password, do not worry. It is easy to reset your user name and password, just e-‐mail [email protected] and our PowerSchool administrator will give you new login information. MOODLE -‐ All middle school teachers have a Moodle site for their classes. Students are expected to log in to Moodle for information about homework and for class documents. In the event of an absence, Moodle is the best way to find out what has been missed. AAGENDA -‐ Students are provided with a homework Agenda book and they are expected to record assignments and due dates in the agenda book on a daily basis. All students are expected to purchase an Agenda from the Business Office if they lose their original. HALL PASSES -‐ A student leaving a class at any time other than passing time should have a pass from the teacher of that class. The pass used at ACS is the Agenda, which is signed by the teacher each time a student leaves class. This includes passage to their locker, the library, the computer labs, the school nurse, or the bathroom. HOMEWORK -‐ Homework forms an important part of a student’s education because it reinforces the work covered during class and provides a student with the opportunity to practice skills learned. It is recommended that parents remain aware of their children's homework, course work and project commitments. Parents can help their children establish good study habits by ensuring that time is set aside and by providing a quiet place to study. For ACS students, homework is an expectation, although the amount and nature will vary according to grade level. Students can expect to have approximately up to two hours of homework or individual study each night (this will vary with individual students’ study habits). 11 Middle School Student Handbook MISSING WORK -‐ Teachers, students, and parents are all responsible to be sure work is being turned in. All assigned work is important for learning. When students fail to turn in assignments it is detrimental in many ways. First, teachers do not know how well students understand the given topic. Without this, there can be no altering of instruction to fit the needs of the students. Second, learning is limited without practice and doing the assigned work. Third, teachers cannot track progress of learning when the work is not completed. For these reasons teachers will do all they can to get students to complete the work. Teachers will remind students in class, ask students to come in at lunch and/or after school, and give extra time to complete the work. Students are expected to be responsible and follow the requests of the teachers. Finally, Parents should be aware of the missing work through periodically checking PowerSchool. If students fail to respond to these requests, teachers will be forced to assign a zero for the missing work and request parental intervention. PARENT-‐TEACHER CONFERENCES -‐ A scheduled time is set aside for parent/teacher conferences for the first quarter. See the school calendar for exact dates. Additional Parent/Teacher conferences may be arranged at any time of the year. Teachers are always willing to discuss your child's progress with you. Honest, open communication will enhance your child's learning experience. If you wish to schedule a conference with your child's teacher, please either write your teacher a note or email your child's teacher to schedule a meeting with them. It is important to schedule a meeting directly with your child's teacher so that they can find a mutually convenient time to meet with you. If you are having difficulty coordinating a meeting time, please contact the MS/HS office. STUDENT-‐LED CONFERENCES -‐ Each spring, time set aside for Student-‐Led Conferences. During this time, students take the lead and guide their parents through how they have been doing each class by highlighting key pieces of work. Additionally, all teachers are available to give confer about the progress of the students. ELECTIVE CLASS CHANGE PROCEDURES -‐ During the first ten school days of the first semester, and the first five school days of the second semester, a student may request an elective course changes. The student will need to complete an add/drop request form from the middle school office. This form must be signed by the student’s parent/guardian and each teacher involved in the change. The completed form is returned to the counselor for approval. A course change after the designated add/drop period must be recommended by the teacher and approved by the principal. PHYSICAL EDUCATION -‐ ACS uses a Physical Education uniform. Middle school students are to use the school approved shirt and shorts, or long athletic pants. Athletic shoes, and socks are also required for physical education classes. Students are encouraged to shower after classes. 12 Middle School Student Handbook The student will provide his/her own towel for showering. Each student is issued a locker and combination lock in the locker room for securing clothing and valuables. ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE -‐ The Middle School has a modified ESL (English as a Second Language) program designed for students who have little or no English background and for students whose English is not proficient enough to enable them to function within a regular classroom. Students with little or no English can be admitted with the Superintendent's approval. TEXTBOOKS -‐ Students are issued paper or electronic textbooks for each of their classes at the beginning of the school year. Each student is responsible for keeping the books in good condition as they are to be returned at the end of the year. Students will be billed the full replacement cost for lost or damaged books. ACS CODE OF STUDENT ETHICS At ACS we have high standards of academic performance and high expectations for student conduct. Through great effort and dedication, our students rise to meet our academic challenges and achieve these high standards. For reasons of maintaining an exemplary reputation in the community, ACS has drafted this Code of Ethics. We want the grades of our students to reflect accurately their academic ability. We are endeavoring to ensure to the parents and school community that our students can achieve high standards through their own hard work. Academic dishonesty (cheating) is defined as “the intentional using, attempting to use, intending to use, or giving or attempting to give unauthorized aid on any work for which a grade is issued. This specifically includes daily assignments, quizzes, tests, projects, and any other type of work that is submitted for a grade.” It is the responsibility of the teacher to clearly indicate when cooperative effort is acceptable on any work that is submitted for a grade. It is the responsibility of the students to obtain the permission of the teacher to collaborate on an assignment. Plagiarism is a form of academic dishonesty and is defined as “the act of using another person’s ideas or expressions without acknowledging the source.” Acts of plagiarism will be treated with the same consequences as other forms of academic dishonesty. Consequences: Acts of academic dishonesty will not be tolerated by the ACS community. Community members should at a minimum confront academic dishonesty and explain that this behavior is not acceptable at ACS. In all cases in which cheating or plagiarism has been attempted or has taken place the teacher will notify the principal and parents. Further consequences may include being assigned a zero for the work, redoing the work afterschool, being assigned additional work, or more. 13 Middle School Student Handbook Student Pledge Each student of ACS will be required to abide by the pledge, as it is stated below. I, _____________________________, an ACS student, committed to the tenets of “Integrity, Respect and Intellectual Growth”, do pledge to adhere to the Code of Ethics below. If, at any time, I breach any of the following ethical practices, I understand I will be subject to disciplinary sanctions up to and including expulsion. 1. I will only submit work that is my own. Where I use others’ words or ideas, I will give them due credit through bibliographic citation. 2. I will not take part in any unethical activity to improve or maintain my academic standing. This includes, but is not limited to, cheating, intending to cheat, attempting to cheat, copying, discussing tests or quizzes with other classes, or other such activities. 3. When working in a group, I will be sure to contribute equally with my colleagues so that the final product submitted will accurately reflect an equal contribution on my part. 4. I will not condone unethical practices by my classmates. If I know that another student is in breach of this Code of Ethics, I will take it upon myself to counsel that individual, and if appropriate, seek adult guidance. Signature: Date: Parent Pledge Each parent will also be required to abide by the pledge as stated below. I, __________________________________, parent of this student, do hereby support and endorse this ACS Code of Ethics. I will endeavor to maintain an open dialogue with my child on the importance of goal attainment through ethical means, and provide support and guidance if needed. Signature: Date: All Middle School students must have agreed to abide by signed the Student Code of Ethics. 14 Middle School Student Handbook STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND GENERAL INFORMATION ATTENDANCE -‐ ACS is committed to the view that consistent school attendance is vital to the long-‐term success of each student. While students can make up written work, nothing can make up for the time missed from a classroom environment that involves teacher instruction, discussions, group work, and other enriching activities. We believe that regular school attendance helps students develop invaluable personal habits and supports them in gaining as much as possible from their academic program. Furthermore, we value the contributions each student makes every day, and absence detracts from the quality of all of our classes. In order to express our commitment to reliable attendance, the following are ACS guidelines: Notifying the school • Students should not be taken out of school unless there is no alternative. If for any reason you must take your child out of school, please notify the office a few days in advance so that bus drivers can be informed. • If the student is absent for more than two days, please call the Receptionist BEFORE 8:30 a.m. so she can have sufficient time to collect assignments from the teachers. The assignments can be picked up at Reception after 3:15. • Parents are required to send a note stating the reason for any student absence or to bring the student back personally following an absence. • All absences are either excused or unexcused. On returning to school after an absence, students must present a note from their parents or a physician to the office describing the reason for the absence. If a student does not bring in a note, the absence will be classified as unexcused. Excused Absences • Excused absences are granted for reasons such as illness, family emergency, or special family religious holidays. • Students who are absent for all or even part of a school day may not attend any after school or evening programs at the school. Appointments • Families should schedule doctor and other appointments after school hours or during vacation. When this is not possible, parents may request that their child be excused from school for part of the school day. All such requests must be made in writing to the school at least one day before the scheduled appointment. MAKE-‐UP WORK -‐ Students are allowed one day for each day absent to make-‐up missed work. It is the responsibility of the student to obtain assignments and to make up all work missed when absent and make any necessary arrangements with the teacher to make up class activities. Missing assignments are due the next time the class meets. Additional time may be granted under extraordinary circumstances. 1. In addition to finishing missing assignments, students are expected to complete all current assignments. 15 Middle School Student Handbook 2. Homework assigned prior to the absence is due the day the student returns. TRUANCY AND SUSPENSION 1. Absences from school or class resulting from truancy will be considered unexcused. Truancy is defined days or periods of non-‐attendance with neither parental nor school approval. Truancy will result in disciplinary action. 2. All absences missed as a result of out of school suspensions are unexcused absences. Work missed as a result of an unexcused absence may be made up at the discretion of the teacher but will not be given credit. 3. Days missed as a result of in-‐school suspension are treated as excused absences. TARDINESS -‐ Grades 6-‐8 students are expected to be in classes on time. Violations will lead to disciplinary consequences. Teachers will discuss this problem with parents, and if not rectified, the matter will go to the Principal. Three tardies, and all subsequent tardies thereafter, will be treated as an ACS Code of Conduct event. The following procedures are followed in grades 6-‐8 for each class regarding classroom tardiness: A. First Tardy Student notified by teacher verbally. B. Second Tardy Student notified by teacher verbally C. Third Tardy Principal notified and student will receive a consequence. D. Fourth and beyond Continued tardiness will result in further disciplinary action TELEPHONES AND MOBILE PHONES -‐ Students are welcome to use the school office phones during the school day to contact parents. If students have mobile phones, they must be turned off during school hours. Mobile phones may be turned on after 3:00 PM but may not be used in classrooms, the library, computer lab or during any supervised after school activity. Students who disregard this rule will have their phones confiscated for the day, and repeat offenders will be required to have a parent come to school to retrieve their phone. Continuous infractions will result in a student not being allowed to bring a cell phone onto school property. Mobile phones are the responsibility of the owner. The school is not responsible for loss or theft of mobile phones or any other items students bring to school. Students are reminded to lock valuables in their hall and gym lockers. SCHOOL NURSE – Students may visit the nurse with a pass from their classroom teacher. Students without passes will be asked to return to their class for a pass. The ACS Medical Center is staffed by a qualified nurse. The school nurse will administer basic first aid and attend to a child as specified on the Emergency Information Card on file in the nurse’s office. If a child becomes ill and/or has a temperature of 100º F (37.8º C) or over, he/she will be sent home. Parents should not send a child to school if they suspect he/she is ill or has a fever. If a child becomes ill with a communicable or infectious disease, the child should be kept at home and the school nurse should be notified as soon as possible. 16 Middle School Student Handbook LIBRARY MEDIA RESOURCE CENTER -‐ The ACS Media Center (Library) provides an important resource center for all students in the school. The Library houses a collection of reference, fiction, nonfiction, children's picture books, and magazines as well as non-‐print material located on CD ROM and on-‐line databases and on videocassettes and DVDs. The Media Center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily. Students are encouraged to use this facility for research and study before and after school and my use it during the day with a pass from their individual classes. Students are not allowed to play computer games, check their emails or play with the cameras. Students are responsible for the care of books checked out of the library and will be charged the full replacement cost for lost or damaged books. Students are notified weekly of overdue books and reminded near the end of each quarter. In order to receive report cards, students must return all overdue books or pay replacement costs. Photocopying facilities are provided in the Media Center for student use. All photocopying should be done under the supervision of a teacher or the librarian. Eating and drinking are prohibited in the Media Center. COMPUTER USE -‐ The computer lab is open for student use every day after school until 4:30 PM. All students must have a signed Responsible Use Policy (RUP) on file to use school computers. Students are to log in under their personal account, and will be held accountable for any issues that arise from the use of their account (protect your login and password!). Please note that all internet traffic is monitored by the school server, and students will be held accountable for any inappropriate internet use on their personal account. WITHDRAWAL -‐ Students leaving school permanently during the school year must obtain clearance from their teachers, the librarian, accountant, nurse, Superintendent’s office and registrar. Withdrawal forms are available from the Middle School/High School Office. Failure to complete clearance procedures will delay the release of transcripts and records. ATHLETICS AND ACTIVITIES EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES -‐ Participation in ACS Middle School activities is a privilege. Student participation in activities may be restricted for academic reasons; this includes athletic events, arts events, dances, and the Lock-‐In. Students who are absent for all or even part of a school day may not attend any after school or evening programs at the school. MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETICS -‐ ACS Middle School offers several sports for middle school students. All middle school athletics are founded in the philosophy that all students-‐ sixth, seventh, and eighth grade boys and girls-‐ are encouraged to play. There are no cuts. Seasons are about six to eight weeks long with two three practices per week. In-‐house tournaments are 17 Middle School Student Handbook played at the end of each season. The goal is to increase skills and teamwork in a non-‐ threatening environment. The following are the sports and seasons played. Please see the ACS Athletics Website for more details of the exact timing of each sport. 1. Soccer-‐ Fall 2. Volleyball-‐ Fall 3. Basketball-‐ Winter/Spring 4. Track-‐ Spring 5. Tennis-‐ Spring Eighth grade students may participate in Junior Varsity soccer, volleyball, and basketball. See Participation in Junior Varsity Athletics section for more details. STUDENT COUNCIL-‐ The Middle School Student Council is the student government organization directly involved with decisions affecting the entire student body. The Student Council consists of the executive council and class representatives. The Executive Council consists of a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer elected at large by the student body in the spring of each year. Representatives are elected from Advisory classes in the fall of each year. Members of the Student Council must maintain a minimum quarterly GPA of 3.0. Students failing to achieve a 3.0 GPA will be put on probation and given one quarter to meet the requirement. Behavior issues or missing meetings may result in suspension or removal from Student Council. DANCES -‐ The Middle School Student Council sponsors about four dances per year. All students are welcome and encouraged to attend these exciting events. Since dances are school-‐ sponsored events standard school rules apply including dress code. Students violating the dress code will be asked to stay out of the dance until suitable clothing is brought. Likewise, dances are for ACS Middle School students only, guests from other school may not attend. NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY -‐ ACS is a charter member of the National Junior Honor Society. The purpose of this organization is to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in secondary school students. Membership in the NJHS is an honor bestowed upon a student by selection only. Only students who have attended ACS for at least one semester and are in the second semester of sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth grades are eligible. Selection for membership is by a faculty council and is based on a minimum of a 3.25 cumulative GPA since the beginning of sixth grade. The council may consider outstanding students in the following categories that do not meet the 3.25 GPA criteria. These categories include outstanding citizenship, character, leadership and a prior history of service. For additional information on the selection criteria and the selection process, please see the ACS website (www.acsamman.edu.jo) or the NHS/NJHS websites. 18 Middle School Student Handbook PARTICIPATION IN JUNIOR VARSITY ATHLETIC EVENTS -‐ ACS is a member of the International Schools Activities Conference (ISAC) for both athletics competitions and fine arts activities. Due to the limited number of participants on a team, participation is competitive, and try-‐outs will be held prior to the selection of the participants. ISAC Junior Varsity (JV) is defined as students under the age of 16 as of September 1. At ACS, only students in 8th grade or higher are allowed to participate in JV sports. All costs associated with extracurricular activities are the responsibility of the parents (i.e. airline tickets, uniforms, and cancellation fees for students who quit an activity after tickets have been purchased). Coaches and sponsors will provide information regarding participation in junior varsity activities during the initial meetings for that activity. All traveling students are to obtain an “Advance Assignment Form” from their coach at least one week prior to departure. Students are responsible for discussing their upcoming absence with each teacher and record all assignments and due dates. 1. Students absent for ISAC events will be allowed one week from their return to make up missed work without penalty. Thereafter, the teacher may apply all penalties. 2. Students who travel on ISAC trips are expected to be in school the day following the trip. MEDICAL FORMS – Students participating in middle school sports do not need a physical examination. However, a physical examination is required for all students trying out for Junior Varsity sports. ACS will engage a doctor to be available in the first two weeks of school to do physical examinations for students after school at a nominal cost. GOOD CONDUCT POLICY FOR ACTIVITIES -‐ All ACS students involved in the school’s athletics and activities must adhere to all school rules and all rules. TRAVEL -‐ Students will be allowed to miss school due to extracurricular school sponsored activities travel. Students experiencing academic difficulties may forfeit their opportunity to travel. All costs associated with travel for school activities will be the responsibility of the participant’s family. ACS CODE OF STUDENT CONDUCT The essence of our ACS Code of Student Conduct is found in the three pillars of our school’s Mission: integrity, respect, and intellectual growth. 1. Members of the ACS community act with integrity. You are expected to: • take personal responsibility for your actions • be only where you are supposed to be at all times • learn and choose to do what is right even when it is not easy • help build a community where all members can rely on one another 19 Middle School Student Handbook • • • • • • follow the ACS Honor Code, ACS Student Code of Ethics, the ACS Dress Code, the ACS Technology Responsible Use Policy, and ACS School Rules tell the truth and be trustworthy fulfill all commitments and responsibilities show sound judgment not engage in spreading hurtful or unsubstantiated rumors seek assistance from a trusted adult when difficulties arise 2. ACS students are expected to respect themselves, other students, those in authority, including teachers and other staff members (including bus drivers, custodians, cafeteria workers, etc.), school guests, school property, the school environment. Behaving respectfully includes acting courteously and fairly, and knowing the appropriate time, place, and tone of voice for any action. Respectful behavior means not hurting others verbally or physically, and treating others with courtesy and civility. Respectful students take pride in keeping their classrooms, the school grounds, and school property and busses clean, neat, and free of litter and graffiti. Each of us must work toward creating a respectful climate at ACS. As respectful members of the ACS community, every student will not: 1. physically, socially, or emotionally harass any member of the school community 2. use vulgar, obscene or profane gestures or words 3. repeatedly interrupt another individuals 4. make requests at times or in settings where they cannot reasonably be met 5. be careless school property and materials 6. cause or attempt to cause damage to school or personal property 7. violate or attempt to violate the privacy of another individual’s belongings (including computers) 8. be insubordinate (i.e. fail or refuse to follow reasonable directions of school staff and/or school rules) 9. skip class, leave class, or leave the school grounds without permission Out of respect for others’ personal space, students are expected to keep their hands to themselves at all times. Public displays of affection (PDAs) are prohibited. Horseplay, the act of pushing, grabbing, patting, etc., another student with no intent to harm and where no injury occurs, is not allowed because it can result in accidental injury or hurt feelings and often leads to altercations. Fighting or other aggressive acts, or threats of harm, are expressly forbidden and normally results in automatic suspension, regardless of which student was the aggressor. 3. ACS students will strive for intellectual growth. Each student is expected to: 1. know, understand, and follow the ACS attendance policy 20 Middle School Student Handbook 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. be on time and come prepared for all classes and activities pay attention in class and participate fully in the life of the classroom complete all reading, writing, and study assignments on time put forth their best effort at all times ask for extra help when needed be accountable for their academic growth BULLYING -‐ Bullying has no place in ACS. All forms of bullying or harassment are strictly forbidden at ACS and carry significant consequences. Bullying is defined as physical and/or emotional harassment that is deliberate, repeated, demonstrates a power imbalance. Examples include: 1. Physical bullying-‐ grabbing, poking, pushing, hitting, kicking 2. Verbal bullying-‐ teasing, yelling, name-‐calling, insulting, threatening to harm 3. Indirect bullying-‐ ignoring, excluding, spreading rumors, telling lies, getting others to hurt someone physically or emotionally BYSTANDERS -‐ Everyone at ACS is held to the highest standard. Students are expected to look out for each other. Bystanders, or witnesses, can play a large role in ending any situation of bullying or harassment. It has been shown that bullying ends quickly if one person is bold enough to say, “Stop,” or stand up for the victim. Students who observe or know of bullying or harassment are responsible for their actions. They are expected to report the bullying or harassment to a responsible adult. Failure to do so makes the bystander responsible along with the bully. Bystanders who assemble around a fight are deemed to be encouraging the violence and will be held accountable for their actions. CYBERBULLYING-‐ Cyberbullying and online harassment have no place at ACS. They have significant effects on the school climate and limit learning. Therefore, cyberbullying and online harassment against ACS students-‐ on or off school grounds-‐ is considered a violation of the ACS Code of Conduct and will dealt with accordingly. Please see the Responsible Use Policy for more details. CONSEQUENCES -‐ Students who do not adhere to the ACS Code of Student Conduct will be subject to disciplinary action, including lunch or after school detention, school chores duty, loss of Study Hall privileges, weekend detention, in-‐school or out-‐of-‐school suspension, or expulsion. Fighting, bullying, or harassment of any kind normally results in automatic suspension. In general, however, infractions consequences for violating the ACS Code of Student Conduct will follow this pattern:* 21 Middle School Student Handbook 1st Event: 2nd Event: 3rd Event: 4th Event: Verbal Warning (documented) Verbal Warning with consequence (documented) Parental Contact (documented) Referral to Principal for further disciplinary action (this could include in-‐school or out of school suspensions) Any student who misses his/her lunch detention, weekend detention, school chore, or in-‐school suspension will be subject to further sanctions or more significant disciplinary actions. *Students who have committed significant violations of the ACS Code of Conduct may accelerate through the hierarchy. STUDENT DRESS CODE -‐ The ACS Student Dress Code applies to all school functions, including after school, evening, and weekend events. Further modifications may be mandated for school trips and other events. The dress code is designed to minimize distractions to learning, and it is the teacher or administration’s discretion as to what constitutes “distraction to learning”. Skirts, dresses, and shorts must be worn no higher than two inches above the top of the knee. Tights and leggings must be worn with skirts or dresses that follow the dress code. § No visible undergarments are allowed at any time or under any circumstances. This specifically refers to sagging pants. § The wearing of hats, caps, and toques in the school building is not allowed. § All shirts must have sleeves and fully cover the waist, midriff, back and shoulders. Other aspects of the Dress Code: 1. P.E. clothes, shorts and t-‐shirt, may be worn only during P.E. 2. Torn and/or frayed clothing is inappropriate, as is clothing carrying pictures and slogans that may cause offense to others or promote illegal or unethical activities. 3. Footwear should be suitable for vigorous activity and for safety reasons should be worn at all times. 4. Modest swimwear is required for all trips to pools or waterparks. The administration is ultimately responsible for determining what is considered appropriate dress for school, including school trips and other events. Consequences for ACS Dress Code violations. Each violation is treated as an ACS Code of Student Conduct event. Students who are inappropriately clad will be loaned clothing to rectify the situation, or asked to call home for appropriate clothing to be delivered. NUISANCE ITEMS -‐ Students shall not bring nuisance items to school. These include such things as toys, toy weapons, water pistols, sling shots, air horns, etc. Toys may be brought to school upon teacher request for class presentation. iPods, etc. may be used on the buses, at lunch time, and during study halls, but must be in back packs or lockers the remainder of the school 22 Middle School Student Handbook day. Teachers are authorized to confiscate any nuisance items brought to school and turn them in to the principal’s office. THEFT – Although theft is rare at ACS, students are reminded not to leave anything of value in classrooms, hallways, or study areas that might tempt an opportunist. The school will not assume responsibility for any valuables lost or stolen. SCHOOL RULES -‐ Every organization has a set of rules or standards that are designed to help the organization meet its goals and objectives. The following is a list of behaviors on campus that will lead to disciplinary action(s): 1. Leaving campus without the approval of administration. 2. Public displays of affection. 3. Damaging school property or the property of others. 4. Use of inappropriate language, signs, gestures. 5. Insubordination, rude, or offensive behavior. 6. Chronic tardiness. 7. Throwing rocks, snow, ice, or other objects. 8. Fighting, stealing, bullying, intimidation, harassment. 9. Violations of the Student Code of Ethics. 10. Lack of cooperation with school rules or authority. DISCIPLINARY ACTIONS -‐ The school may take any of the following disciplinary actions or combinations of actions for violation of school rules: Detention. The principal or teachers may assign detentions to students for various academic and behavioral problems. Detentions are held during lunch or from 3:00 until 4:30 PM. Students who are tardy for detention will be allowed in and will be assigned an additional detention for the tardiness. Students who miss detention will be assigned an additional detention and/or a suspension. During detention students may be assigned a reflective exercise involving readings, discussions and a written plan for improved behavior. Students not assigned a reflective exercise are expected to study/read school related material during the detention. Social Probation. The principal may place on social probation a student who has excessive office referrals or exhibits inappropriate social behavior. Social Probation means that a student may not stay after school or participate in any social activities or extracurricular activities or events unless they have specific written permission from the principal. Disciplinary Probation. The principal may place on disciplinary probation a student who has had chronic or serious violations of school conduct. Disciplinary probation includes a designated period of time, usually with disciplinary sanctions, given to the student to prove him/herself as a responsible member of the student body. Students on disciplinary probation who receive a Saturday detention, in-‐school suspension, or out of school 23 Middle School Student Handbook suspension are frequently recommended for expulsion. Students on disciplinary probation are restricted from participation in games, dances, school productions and similar activities without a written parental request and Principal’s approval. Students on Disciplinary Probation will not be allowed to participate in extracurricular events/activities, or hold elected office. Saturday Detention. The principal may assign Saturday detentions for chronic behavioral concerns, excessive tardiness, truancy, or other related reasons. In-‐School Suspension (ISS). The principal may assign an in-‐school suspension for more serious or repeated behavioral problems. Students will be provided school work are expected to complete it during the ISS, and may take quizzes, exams, etc., during the ISS. The student’s absence from class is regarded as an excused absence. Suspension from School. The principal may suspend a student from school for one to three days for more serious or repeated behavioral problems. The student’s absence from class is regarded as an unexcused absence. This disciplinary action is serious, and continued problems will lead to recommendation for expulsion from school. Recommendation for Expulsion from School. If the behavior is very serious or previous disciplinary actions have not corrected the behavior, the principal may recommend to the Superintendent that a student be expelled from school. DRUG, ALCOHOL, AND TOBACCO FREE CAMPUS -‐ ACS is a drug, alcohol, and tobacco free environment. Possession or use of unauthorized drugs including alcohol, at school, within two blocks of the school, or at any school sponsored events, is a violation of the ACS Drug Policy and is subject to immediate exclusion from an event, suspension or expulsion from school. If there are reasonable grounds to believe that drugs, drug paraphernalia, stolen property or other contraband are at school, the school will have the right to do a specific or general search of persons, personal possessions and lockers. ACS also reserves the right to conduct drug testing to gather evidence. ACS RESPONSIBLE USE POLICY (RUP) -‐ The use of technology at ACS is intended to support our mission and to promote good digital citizenship. The school facilitates access to our network, storage on the server and Internet resources so that students can take advantage of the many opportunities to enhance their learning with the tools and services that are available. Because of the many instructional and management benefits that teachers have come to rely upon, our information infrastructure and Internet access are critical to the school’s mission. Access to the school network and the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and entails responsibility. Students are expected to exercise the same good behavior when using computers as they do in a classroom or school hallway. The following guidelines are intended to help students and parents understand responsible use of technology. 24 Middle School Student Handbook LAPTOP MAINTENANCE -‐ Each secondary student is responsible for his/her own laptop. Students should treat their laptops with respect and use technology responsibly. Proper care and maintenance will help keep your computer in working order. 1. Keep your laptop in its storage container (bag, sleeve, etc.) when traveling from class to class. If you keep your laptop in a backpack, treat the backpack with respect. 2. Avoid spilling liquids and food on your laptop by not eating or drinking while using your laptop. 3. Come to school with your laptop battery fully charged. 4. Keep your files organized by using the file management system outlined by your teacher. Backup your files regularly (at least weekly). 5. Update your operating system, applications, and virus definitions frequently. ETHICAL USE OF TECHNOLOGY -‐ Students are expected to use their laptops in a manner that is consistent with the school’s mission statement and student profile. Responsible use of the Internet includes: research, web-‐based applications, communication, and collaboration. Unacceptable activities are not permitted. These include, but are not limited to: 1. Harassing, insulting, attacking others, and/or using obscene language. 2. Sending or displaying offensive messages or pictures. 3. Participating in interactive email and chat rooms without permission. 4. Changing default settings on school computers. 5. Downloading or installing software on school computers without permissions. 6. Intentionally wasting limited resources, or requesting unnecessary and lengthy material that ties up system resources. 7. Violating network security systems, using another’s password or account, or trespassing in another’s folder or files. 8. Damaging computers, computer systems or computer networks. 9. Violating copyright laws. 10. Employing the network for commercial purposes. DIGITAL CITIZENSHIP -‐ Respect and integrity are important components at ACS. We include them in our mission statement and in our student profile. We expect students to model these traits online, as well as in person. 1. Research, including information taken from the Internet, must be properly cited. 2. Copyright laws should be respected in using software, subscriptions, and Web-‐based information. 3. Respect the privacy of others. 4. Communicate with others online, using appropriate netiquette. 25 Middle School Student Handbook CYBERBULLYING -‐ Cyber-‐bullying will not be tolerated. The school reserves the right to discipline ACS students for on or off-‐campus harassment and cyberbullying if it adversely affects the safety or well being of members of the ACS community. This includes harassment through cell phones, computers, and other forms of technology. Consequences Violations of the RUP may result in a loss of access to the network, the Internet, and the school’s computers, as well as other disciplinary action. All students must sign the RUP policy before they may use their laptops, school computers or the school network. CYBEROAM -‐ Please note that students are required to log-‐in under their personal account and will be held accountable for any issues that arise from the use of their account. Protect your login information; do not share it with others. All Internet traffic is monitored and documented by the school router. Students will be held accountable for any inappropriate Internet use associated with their personal account. With just cause, the school has the right to inspect a student’s laptop for evidence of illegal software, cyberbullying, misconduct, pornography, gambling, militant/extremist material, hate speech, etc. Appropriate disciplinary action will be taken if such evidence is found. All students must sign the UP policy before they may use school computers or the school network. Please note that students are to log in under their personal account, and will be held accountable for any issues that arise from the use of their account (protect your login and password!). Please note that all internet traffic is monitored by the school server, and students will be held accountable for any inappropriate internet use on their personal account. SCHOOL PROCEDURES AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES -‐ Middle and high school students may stay after school to participate in supervised activities, utilize the library or computer labs, work with a teacher for extra help, or work on specific projects. Students are not allowed on campus after school unless they are under an adult’s supervision. Students may not leave campus and return later to ride the late bus. If a student has an activity that starts later than 3:00 PM, the student is to either study in the library, work in the computer labs or another approved location. ANNOUNCEMENTS -‐ The bulletin board across the hall from the Receptionist will be a community board for any announcements of interest. The daily announcements will be read in class daily for Middle and High School and posted in many locations around the school as well as online. 26 Middle School Student Handbook BICYCLES AND MOTOR VEHICLES -‐ The use of bicycles, skateboards, roller blades and motor vehicles on the campus is forbidden. Students may ride bicycles to school and bring them on campus for safe keeping. Students riding bicycles to school are required to wear helmets. COMMUNICATION – An electronic weekly newsletter from the Superintendent's office will be sent out every week. This is an important way to ensure communication between school and home. It is called "What's Going On?" (WGO) and will include upcoming dates, student activities, and general school information. It will also be posted on our web site, www.acsamman.edu.jo. It is vital to school to home communication that parents read the WGO each week. DRINKING WATER -‐ A water purification system is used at ACS and is periodically monitored by school officials. ENGLISH LANGUAGE USAGE -‐ A strong intent of ACS families is to provide an excellent opportunity to their children to prepare for American colleges and universities. Fluency in spoken and written English is critical to achieving this goal. Consequently, apart from specific world language classroom-‐directed activities, English is the ONLY spoken language allowed at school and school related activities. It is disrespectful to speak at any length in a manner which excludes nearby fellow students or staff, or which uses language to disparage deliberately another member of the ACS community or our visitors. “English Only” is our operating rule. FIELD TRIPS -‐ Field trips for educational purposes are organized throughout the year by the faculty and permission slips must be signed by the parents to allow the students to participate. INSURANCE -‐ All enrolled pupils are covered against accidental injuries occurring on the school grounds or on school related outings under a policy which covers medical costs to a maximum amount (please check with the Business Office to determine the amount). Any accident or injury should be reported immediately to the school nurse and the Superintendent. LOST AND FOUND -‐ A box is kept in the Receptionist's office for lost items. We encourage parents and children to check this box for anything which has been misplaced. SECURITY OF SCHOOL BUILDING AND GROUNDS -‐ Students are welcome to participate in supervised after school activities. All school regulations are to be obeyed during after school activities. No students may remain on campus after school unless they are in a sponsored activity and are supervised. Students must leave campus upon conclusion of their sponsored activity. Students found in buildings and/or on school grounds without permission can be subject to strict disciplinary measures for unauthorized entry. Acts of vandalism to school property will result in severe disciplinary action. 27 Middle School Student Handbook SNOW DAYS – ACS will make every effort to contact families in case of school closure. Normally contact is by SMS, or phone calls. TRANSPORTATION -‐ There is a bus fee for transportation to and from school. Bussing is not provided to all areas of Amman. Transportation is provided for those areas that are a reasonable distance from school and have enough passengers to be economically sound. Routes and availability of service may vary from year to year. Bussing for students who enroll after September will be provided if there is sufficient space on the busses. Late busses are provided for high school and middle school students who are involved in supervised after school activities or serving detentions. Students need not be a regular bus rider to take advantage of the late bus service. Students may not leave campus and return to ride the late bus. Misbehavior on busses may lead to disciplinary action, which may result in suspension from riding the bus. The following are the rules which bus riders are expected to follow: 1. All school rules apply to bus riders. 2. Students are to follow the instructions and/or directions of the drivers. 3. Students are to treat drivers, bus monitors and fellow students in a courteous and respectful manner. 4. Students are to keep heads and limbs in the bus at all times. 5. Students are not allowed to sit or stand in the aisles, doorways or in the front passenger seat. 6. Only high school students may sit in the back seat of the bus. 7. Students are to remain seated until the bus comes to a complete stop. 8. Students are to keep the busses free of litter and graffiti. 9. No objects of any kind should be thrown from the bus windows at any time. 10. Students may ride their assigned bus only, and to their own homes. When a student wishes to ride a different bus to a friend’s house, both students must have signed notes from their parents. This is to insure that both parents know the whereabouts of their children, and is enforced for all ACS students. 11. Eating and drinking is prohibited on the bus at all times. 12. Older students are expected to assist the drivers in maintaining order on the bus. TUTORING -‐ Professional tutoring is available in Amman. See the school counselor or MS/HS secretary for information. This is a private contract and is not part of the ACS school program. VISITORS TO CAMPUS -‐ Students may have other students who do not live in Jordan visit on campus for a maximum of one day only with prior administrative approval. Visitors from local schools are not allowed. In order to have a visitor at ACS, the host student must obtain permission at least one (1) day prior to the visit. The host student assumes full responsibility for their visitor. The visitor must abide by all ACS rules and regulations and should be dressed appropriately for school. All visitors must sign in at the main gate, and obtain a visitor’s badge 28 Middle School Student Handbook that must be worn while visiting the school. No visitors will be allowed during exam review week or during semester exams. WRITING: SIX TRAITS – ACS has adopted The Six Traits of Writing as our means to teach and assess the skills of writing. The Six Traits of Writing from Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory Ideas The Ideas are the heart of the message, the content of the piece, the main theme, together with all the details that enrich and develop that theme. The ideas are strong when the message is clear, not garbled. The writer chooses details that are interesting, important, and informative– often the kinds of details the reader would not normally anticipate or predict. Successful writers do not tell readers things they already know; e.g., "It was a sunny day, and the sky was blue, the clouds were fluffy white …" They notice what others overlook, seek out the extraordinary, the unusual, the bits and pieces of life that others might not see. Organization Organization is the internal structure of a piece of writing, the thread of central meaning, the pattern, so long as it fits the central idea. Organizational structure can be based on comparison-‐ contrast, deductive logic, point-‐by-‐point analysis, development of a central theme, chronological history of an event, or any of a dozen other identifiable patterns. When the organization is strong, the piece begins meaningfully and creates in the writer a sense of anticipation that is, ultimately, systematically fulfilled. Events proceed logically; information is given to the reader in the right doses at the right times so that the reader never loses interest. Connections are strong, which is another way of saying that bridges from one idea to the next hold up. The piece closes with a sense of resolution, tying up loose ends, bringing things to closure, answering important questions while still leaving the reader something to think about. Voice The Voice is the writer coming through the words, the sense that a real person is speaking to us and cares about the message. It is the heart and soul of the writing, the magic, the wit, the feeling, the life and breath. When the writer is engaged personally with the topic, he/she imparts a personal tone and flavor to the piece that is unmistakably his/hers alone. And it is that individual something–different from the mark of all other writers–that we call voice. Word Choice Word Choice is the use of rich, colorful, precise language that communicates not just in a functional way, but in a way that moves and enlightens the reader. In good descriptive writing, strong word choice clarifies and expands ideas. In persuasive writing, careful word choice moves the reader to a new vision of things. Strong word choice is characterized not so much by an 29 Middle School Student Handbook exceptional vocabulary that impresses the reader, but more by the skill to use everyday words well. Sentence Fluency Sentence Fluency is the rhythm and flow of the language, the sound of word patterns, the way in which the writing plays to the ear, not just to the eye. How does it sound when read aloud? That's the test. Fluent writing has cadence, power, rhythm, and movement. It is free of awkward word patterns that slow the reader's progress. Sentences vary in length and style, and are so well crafted that the writer moves through the piece with ease. Conventions Conventions are the mechanical correctness of the piece–spelling, grammar and usage, paragraphing (indenting at the appropriate spots), use of capitals, and punctuation. Writing that is strong in conventions has been proofread and edited with care. Handwriting and neatness are not part of this trait. Since this trait has so many pieces to it, it's almost a holistic trait within an analytic system. As you assess a piece for convention, ask yourself: "How much work would a copy editor need to do to prepare the piece for publication?" This will keep all of the elements in conventions equally in play. Conventions is the only trait where we make specific grade level accommodations. Presentation Presentation combines both visual and verbal elements. It is the way we "exhibit" our message on paper. Even if our ideas, words, and sentences are vivid, precise, and well constructed, the piece will not be inviting to read unless the guidelines of presentation are present. Think about examples of text and presentation in your environment. Which signs and billboards attract your attention? Why do you reach for one CD over another? All great writers are aware of the necessity of presentation, particularly technical writers who must include graphs, maps, and visual instructions along with their text. 30 Middle School Student Handbook STUDENT LAPTOP USER GUIDE Student Requirements All students in grades 6 – 12 are required to have a laptop that meets the specifications set by the school. The specifications are available online on the ACS website (Academics-‐>Technology). Students are expected to come to school each day with a laptop that has a fully charged battery. Students are responsible for ensuring that their laptop does not get damaged, lost or stolen. File Storage Students are responsible for the maintenance of data on their computers. It is recommended that students organize their files and folders in a manner such that files are easy to find and back up. Files that are stored randomly in multiple locations become difficult to find as the collection of files builds up over time. We recommend the following: • Create a separate folder for school-‐related files. • Inside the school folder, create separate folders for each subject being studied. • Inside each subject folder, create a separate folder for each unit when you begin that unit. • Store files related to the unit inside the unit folder. By doing this, you will know where your files are located and simplify the process of backing up your data. You only need to make sure that you back up your school folder; everything inside will be backed up with the school folder. Back Up Procedures Students must back up important files on a regular basis. The frequency of your scheduled back up depends upon how important the files are. A simple guide would be to imagine that, for some reason, everything on your computer is lost. Would you greatly miss something that had not been backed up? If so, it is time to back up your data. How you back up your data is your decision. Options include: CD/DVD, external hard drive, school file server, cloud computing. The choice you make will depend upon your preference and needs. The school’s file server works well in providing access throughout the school, but the amount of space available for each student has to be limited. The server is not a good storage location for large files with video and/or audio. Contact tech support if you need advice. Software Legality All software on student computers must be legal. If you are unsure, ask Tech Support about the software. File Naming Protocols Setting a standard file naming protocol for files that students submit will make it easier for the teacher to identify student work and organize files. Students must use the following protocol: 31 Middle School Student Handbook CourseBlock-‐FirstInitialLastName-‐Assignment An example of this would be APEconB-‐WBeyer-‐Essay1 Help Desk Procedures In order to provide consistent support, an adult will be in the Help Desk room throughout the day. Problems students experience with their computers will be dealt with ASAP. After school, on days when there are no required meetings, tech support will be available for students and staff from 3:00 until 4:00 in the Help Desk room. Troubleshooting Students are their own first line of tech support. Below are steps that students should consider trying before seeking help: Problem Possible Solution Computer does not turn on. Battery may be low. Connect computer with adapter to an outlet and try again. Computer does not print. Check connections. Check that printer is turned on and working properly (no warning indicator light). If your document does not print the first time that you try, do not try printing again and again. Find out what is causing the problem or ask for help. Computer does not work with digital Check connections. projector. Check that digital projector is turned on and working and that the sliding door is open. If the projector indicates that there is no signal, the problem is probably with the computer, the connection, or the cable. Paper jam in printer Turn off the printer. Try to locate where the paper is caught in the printer by removing the toner cartridge. There may be a door in the back of the printer that can be opened. Carefully remove the paper and replace the toner cartridge. Turn the printer back on and check if the status light is now green. If you are unsuccessful or unsure, contact tech support. Cannot connect to server Check that the correct IP address is listed 172.18.0.2 Problem Solution Windows Mac Cancel document printing Press the red cancel [X] button on the printer. Delete print orders from the Find the printer icon next to the Click the printer icon on the 32 Middle School Student Handbook Problem printer queue Solution Windows clock at right bottom corner. Double click on the icon. Select the listed print orders. Press delete button on the keyboard. Wait few seconds, if orders stays turn the printer off and on. Wireless mouse and Make sure the USB dongle is keyboard connectivity issue connected to the computer. Press the connectivity button at the bottom of the Keyboard or the Mouse. No audio Check the audio level by clicking the speaker icon next to the clock at the bottom right corner Check the audio level on the application that running the audio (Media Player, Youtube, etc.) Make sure the audio cable is plugged into the computer output (green audio output). Verify the power on the amplifier device. Check the sound level on the amplifier. Mac Dock bar. Select the print orders that need to be removed. Press delete button on the keyboard. Wait few seconds, if orders stays turn the printer off and on. Make sure the Bluetooth turned on. Press the power button on the keyboard’s right side. Check the audio level by clicking the speaker icon next to the clock at the top right corner Check the audio level on the application that running the audio (Media Player, Youtube, etc.) Make sure the audio cable is plugged into the computer output (green audio output). Verify the power on the amplifier device. Check the sound level on the amplifier. Select application to open Right click on the file, and select open with. files (Open with…) Choose the application that you want. How to change Google Click on the gear button at the right top corner. language from Arabic to Select the first option . English Select English from the drop down menu Software Installation Families are responsible for the installation of the laptop’s operating system, Office, and anti-‐ virus software. The school will provide help for the installation of additional software, such as the Logger Pro software used with the Vernier probes. Tech support will try to help with general troubleshooting, but this may require the original disks that were used for installation. The 33 Middle School Student Handbook school can provide contact information for third-‐party tech support services that can provide more extensive help, if needed. The school will not provide support for illegal software. Internet Access Accessing the Internet through the school network requires logging in to the Cyberoam router. When the Cyberoam login page appears, enter your username and password. If the Cyberoam login page does not appear automatically, enter 172.18.2.1:8090 into the address bar where you normally type the URL. For convenience, you might consider adding a link to the Cyberoam login page to the bookmarks toolbar. If you do not know how to do this, Tech Support can help you. Cyberoam automatically logs users out at midnight. Note: All users’ browsing history is recorded by the Cyberoam router. Students are accountable for their Internet activity. Battery/Power Students are expected to come to school with a fully charged battery each day. After charging the battery for your laptop, allow it to run off of the battery until the charge is down to 10% before charging the battery again. Frequently recharging the battery may reduce its capacity to hold a charge. At night, before going to bed, connect your laptop to an outlet so that it is fully charged in the morning. There are some ways to conserve battery power: • If you are not going to use your laptop for more than 5-‐10 minutes, put it in sleep mode. This will save power and the laptop will wake up quickly. How to do this will vary, depending upon the platform and model of your laptop. If you are not sure how to turn on sleep mode, contact Tech Support. • Quit applications that you are not using. Closing a window does not quit the application. • Turn off the wireless feature if you are not using it. • Turn off Bluetooth, if you are not using it. • Adjust the power saving features on your laptop (turning off the screen, turning off hard disks, system standby, etc.) to reduce power consumption. If you are not sure how to do this, contact Tech Support. • Dim the screen to the lowest comfortable level (the lower, the longer the battery life). Security The security of your computer is as important as its care and maintenance. You are responsible for your laptop. Please follow these guidelines: • At school, never leave your laptop unattended where it can be damaged or stolen. • Do not place your laptop in a position such that it can easily be knocked off of the desk or table on which it is resting. • Store your laptop in a proper place, such as a locked locker. • Transport your laptop in an appropriate case. 34 Middle School Student Handbook • • • Do not lend your laptop to others. Do not borrow a laptop from another student. Do not share user names and passwords with others. Laptop Care • Keep magnets and liquids away from your laptop. • Do not eat near your laptop. Crumbs may fall into the keyboard, creating problems. • Keep the airflow vents unobstructed. Placing your laptop on a pillow or other soft material may block the airflow vents, causing the laptop to overheat. • Your laptop should be kept in its carrying case when transporting it to and from school to protect it from accidental damage. • Do not carry your laptop with the lid open or with peripherals attached. • Keep your laptop away from excessive heat or cold. Leaving your laptop exposed in a car while you shop invites theft and the time in the sun may damage your laptop. • Do not use your laptop as a folder for storing papers, pencils, or other small objects. • Keep your laptop in its carrying case when you are not using it. • If you carry your laptop in a backpack, you will need to treat your backpack with more care. Do not throw your backpack or use it as a backrest. Put something soft, like a small towel in the bottom of the backpack to help protect your laptop when you set it down. • Use common sense; if doing something with your laptop seems like it might be a bad idea, it probably is. Printing Printing uses paper and toner. Be mindful of conserving resources when you print. Print only what you need and try not to waste paper. If you try to print and it does not work, check the print queue to see the status of your print job. Do not simply try printing again, if you do not know what has happened. Contact Tech Support, if you need help. Color Printing • The color printer is located in the ES computer lab. Do not interrupt classes there. • Color printing should be done before school, after school, during lunch, or during breaks. • Students must have a note from their teacher, giving them permission to print in color. • Students must make sure that what they need to print in color is properly formatted so that they do not need to print multiple times. 35 Middle School Student Handbook • • Students should bring their note to Ms. Dajani or Mr. Beyer for approval. Ms. Dajani or Mr. Beyer will check that the document to be printed is in an appropriate format. (Printing a Web page to get an image in color is an example of inappropriate printing.) Students should print only one copy of the document. If multiple copies in color are needed, they should print one copy in color and have the additional copies made through a photocopy service. Updates It is important to keep the software on your computer up-‐to-‐date. You should check at least once a week for updates for your operating system, applications, and virus definitions. Contact Tech Support if you need help in doing this. Passwords Your user name and password for all of your accounts should be kept private. Do not share them with anyone. Be conscious of others around you, when logging in to your email, the Cyberoam router, the file server, etc. because that information may become compromised. You should select a strong password for your accounts. A strong password is 8-‐10 characters long, includes upper and lowercase letters, and includes a number and/or special character. You should change your password periodically to make it more difficult for others to discover your password. Video and Sound • You must receive permission from your teacher before you may use a webcam. • You must obtain permission before recording a person in video or audio formats. • Sound on your computer should be muted during class time, unless your teacher gives permission for instructional purposes. • Do not play streaming video or audio for recreational purposes. • Bring headphones or ear buds for listening to audio when your teacher gives permission. • Music may not be downloaded unless your teacher gives specific permission for instructional purposes. Top Five Things to Remember About Your Laptop 1. Come with a charged battery in the morning. 2. Keep your password private. 3. Back up your data. 4. Name your files correctly. 5. Keep your laptop secure. 36
