Learning German

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Welcome Letter:

Learning German

Mr. Race’s Class

September 2007

Welcome to German Class!

I have an exciting year of German planned for you! We will be using the text series called Deutsch Aktuell - completing chapters 1-6 in seventh grade, and chapters 7-12 in eighth grade. It’s easy for your parents & family to follow, We sometimes use another text called Sowieso. It’s a great supplement, and focuses on skill-building. At the end of eighth grade, you will take the NYS Proficiency Exam in German. After successfully completing these two school years - and passing the exam - you will receive one unit of credit towards High School graduation!

Rules?

“Be responsible, be active, be real, and be kind.”

I think we’ll spend some

time together during the

first weeks of school

finding out the rules

we agree on.

So, rather than list a bunch of rules for you to follow,

I think having a good classroom setting boils

down to each of us having the same basic attitudes.

I think we should be responsible, be active, be real,

and be kind. If we stick to that, our “rules” can be

whatever we make them into.

Having said that, there are a few personal pet-peeves

of mine, which you’ll want to avoid. I’m including

Tips for a happy teacher

Follow my instructions the first time. I don’t like repeating myself for no other reason than you “weren’t listening”.

Please don’t “mess” with other people or their stuff. Our classroom should be free from pranks and bullying, and that kind of stuff.

Be seated and ready for learning within the first minute of class time. You’ve got a minute, because I don’t always start “on the dot”, but when I’m ready to start, I hate waiting.

Remind me to take attendance. (During that first minute is good).

Be honest - don’t fake it, when you’re unprepared. And, of course, do your own work.

Don’t bring gum, candy, food or drinks to class. It bugs me.

Bring the things you need to class every day (book, three-ring binder, paper and a pen or pencil). You will need them every day.

Rewards for Good Behavior

Verbal or written praise, Homework Pass, Positive note home to parents, Class games or special activities.

Consequences for Unacceptable Behavior

I will remind you of/instruct you in the positive behavior which I expect from you.

You may be separated from the group (to the hallway or another classroom), until you are prepared to participate in the classroom activities appropriately, and I will call your parents.

A written referral will be sent to your house principal.

Absent?

Work missed due to absence must be made up. Discuss what you missed with your teacher, and talk about when it is due for you. If you know you will miss class, try to get the work ahead of time. If you are ill for more than a few days, your parents can call the school and request your work. A missed quiz or test must be made up promptly.

Grading

Your grade will be based on the following:

Class participation: speaking in German is one of the best ways to improve your skills.

Homework: If you could benefit from it, you may be assigned additional work outside of class. The work will reinforce the concepts learned in class, and help you take time to learn on your own/at your own pace. You may not have the same assignments as everyone else does.

Projects: These allow you to show what you can do in German in a more creative way.

Vocabulary Quizzes: At least every 4 class periods (timing varies) you will show that you have memorized 20-30 words in German. This is the biggest part of your grade. You really need to spend some daily time memorizing vocabulary.

Communication

Ask for extra help if you need it. You can make an appointment to meet with me outside of class, at a time when we are both free.

Click here to send an email!

(585)249-6450 extension 8492

Please contact me with any questions!

Herr Race

email me