12th Grade American Government

Course Overview
2016-2017 School Year
Instructor: Mr. Flores
Course Description:
In this course, we will explore our foundations of government. We will learn about
the origins of interest groups, political parties, and the media in politics. In this
class you will realize that it is not just learning about our countrys foundations, but
also relating everything to what is going on today. We will write to local
congressmen and women along with interest groups. In addition, we will follow
current elections.
As seniors, you will be the next generation of voters. Whether you lean left or
right on the political spectrum scale, the goal of the class is the same. The goal is
for you future voters to be able to make informed decisions and know how you can
influence policy in the country you live in.

Grading Scale For ClassA-89.5%-100%

B- 80%-89.49%
C-70%-79%
D-60%-69%

My Classroom Procedures

An environment of fairness and respect

Expectations for
Coming in to class: Students will come in quietly and sit in their assigned seat.
The first five minutes of class will be dedicated to doing bell-work as well as
turning any homework that may have been due.
Morning and Afternoon announcements
1. Students will immediately become silent when announcements begin.
2. Students will be attentive to the speaker.
During Class: As stated above, this is an environment of respect. I welcome
discussion NOT disrespect. Students will raise their hands instead of talking over
each other. Under no circumstance should students be working on homework for
another class. Students will stay on task. This means absolutely no use of
cellphones in the classroom.
Bathroom Policy: If you wish to use the restroom ask me preferably when I am
not in the middle of a lesson. I will give you a pass, but you also have to fill out the
bathroom sign-out sheet by the door.
End of Class: Students will be engaged the whole class period. I will let you
pack up when there are a couple minutes left in class, but I dismiss you not the
bell.
Collecting Papers: This includes homework, permission slips and so on. Each
period has a designated tray. Please turn in papers to your period. Not doing so
results in lost papers. I will rarely collect papers myself. ALL this should be done
at the beginning of class unless instructed otherwise.
Homework Policy: Homework will often be assigned. For the most part, I will
allow class time to get some done. I understand that we are all busy, however; I am
very strict on late work. As stated above, homework will be turned into the
designated tray at the beginning of class the day it is due. If there is a medical or
personal issue, please let me know. Obviously life happens and there are special
circumstances. I will understand and work with you. The following only applies
to homework assignments.

Late Work for Assignments:

1 day late will automatically lose 10%. So 90% is the highest possible score.
2 days late will lose 20%. So now 80% is the highest score.
3 days late Assignment will NOT be accepted.
Absences and Being Tardy: Missing class is not recommended, since you will
miss a lot. I understand that sometimes we have to be absent, so I am okay with
EXCUSED absences. It is your responsibility to find out what you missed. Talk to
your classmates. I also have an absent folder next to the homework tray. There you
will find out all the handouts.
If you know you are going to be absent ahead of time let me know. It makes things
easier for the both of us.
If you missed a test or quiz talk to me. You will have to take the exam or quiz
before or after school. This will take place in my classroom or the testing center.
Unexcused absences are handled by the office, but if you are constantly tardy
(without a pass) to my class a detention will be assigned.
Being late twice= warning
Being late three times= detention.
If it becomes an everyday occurrence, parents will be notified. Again you are
seniors and should know the drill by now.

Seeking Extra Help: You are now seniors not freshmen. You are young adults, so
I am here to help if you need it, but I am not a mind-reader. I want all my students
to be successful in my class. If you need extra help, you can come before or after
school. If you need to come during lunch talk to me beforehand.

Disruptions in my classroom: As seniors, you are expected to behave in a

manner which is consistent with your maturity both physically and mentally. This
includes treating others with respect, honesty, and fairness. When a problem

arises, we will deal with the student or students involved. I am fair but there will
be consequences if you disrupt my classroom.

First Offense: A warning will be given by me to stop the disruptive behavior.

Second Offense: A detention will be given by me. Either after school or during
lunch.
Third Offense: I will give a detention and a call home.
Fourth Offense: A meeting will be set up with the parents and with the
administrator present.

Contact Info: I look forward to working with you this school year. If
you have any questions or want to meet with me, please feel free to
contact me. I will get back to you within 48 hours.
Email: Jfloreso1112@gmail.com
School phone: (645) 345-4896
I have read and gone over all the procedures:
Student signature:

Parent Signature