Introduction and Syllabus

Project Based Learning

Dear Students and Guardians,

Welcome to Project Based Learning! Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students gain
knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to a complex
question, problem, or challenge. Teachers and researchers have discovered that PBL is an effective and
enjoyable way to learn—and develop deeper learning competencies required for success in college, career and
civic life.

I have attached a list of expected behaviors, and a list of the school supplies needed in order to fully participate
in this classroom. If you have questions or problems obtaining the supplies, please let me know immediately.

Please sign the signature form and send it back tomorrow to let me know that you have read and understand
how our class works. When you finish obtaining the supplies and reading the information, these sheets should
be kept in the front of the student’s binder as a reference.

Grading Policy
Students and parents have access to grades through STI Home on the Internet. The office will provide you with
information on accessing this website. I strongly recommend parents and students check grades online
regularly.
The following grading categories are set by the district:
Class I: 55%--Unit tests, mid unit tests, benchmarks, major projects, essays, performance tasks
Class II: 35%--Quizzes, minor projects, minor writing assignments, vocabulary, quizzes, etc.
Class III: 10%--Classwork, participation, signed papers, materials, etc.
*Academic dishonesty results in credit lost!

Course Outline
In this course we will focus on multiple projects with a problem and a solution. It will often require research
and group work.

Communication
I have several ways of communicating with you throughout the year. The best way to contact me is via email, as
I am typically able to reply quickly. I can communicate with you via phone as well, although it may take me a
little longer to respond to you. If you leave a voicemail message, please endeavor to make it detailed, so I can
best help you when I return your call. If you feel you need to arrange a conference, I am happy to do that as
well. Below I have included information regarding the different ways I handle mass communication for my
class. My past students and their parents have found these resources to be VERY helpful, and I hope you will as
well!
 Website—I have a website for my classroom, and the link is provided below! There you will be able to
access the course syllabus and supply list, information about me. Important documents are more likely
to be posted to our Google Classroom (detailed below). You can access it through my page on our
school’s website, in addition to using the link below.
o http://mcginnislucindaclassroom.weebly.com/
 Google Classroom--each student will be provided a unique join code for his/her Google Classroom for
each class period. In the Google Classroom I post the daily agenda with announcements, assignments,
and reminders. We review this agenda each day early in the class period. I also post documents,
announcements, and directions for assignments as applicable. I will also post general school
announcements as they seem necessary. My past students found this extremely helpful! When I post an
announcement or assignment my students get an email and/or a phone notification and are able to see
the information quickly.
 Introduction and Syllabus
Project Based Learning

Electronic Devices
In accordance with Lee County’s BYOD policy, devices are only to be used when the teacher allows it. Please
remain off your device unless you have my permission to use it for a class-related activity. Please see the
student handbook for consequences if this policy is violated.

In order to preserve academic honesty, electronic devices (may include tablets, e-readers, smart watches, etc.)
will be turned in prior to assessments. Failure to do so will result in loss of credit and a referral for academic
dishonesty. Also, the device(s) will be turned into the office.

Make-Up Work
School policy applies; absences must be excused in order for credit to be earned. Remember that making up
missed assignments is always your responsibility. If you know in advance you will be absent, ask for
assignments ahead of time and have them completed when you return to class. If/when you are absent, consult
the daily agenda posted in Google Classroom, and then consult with me as needed.

Late Work
Assignments are late when turned in after the teacher has collected and/or checked the work of the class. Late
work will be accepted; 10% of the earned score will be deduced for each day your assignment is late. Late work
will be accepted up to one week late (please note, the school policy applies for excused absences).

I hope some of your questions have been answered by this initial correspondence. Please try to have the
required materials as soon as possible since we will begin regular class today. (Yes, that means work!) Feel free
to come to me if you have any further questions. I am looking forward to an exciting and successful school
year!

Thank you,

Mrs. Lucinda McGinnis

Mcginnis.lucinda@lee.k12.al.us
http://mcginnislucindaclassroom.weebly.com/
 Introduction and Syllabus
Project Based Learning
Project Based Learning Supply List
Grade 7
I expect my students to come to class prepared with the required supplies. If you have any difficulty obtaining these items, please let me
know as soon as possible.

 A cardboard box
o Needed for the first project!
o Each group will need one
 Planner
 Loose Leaf Paper
o multiple packs; students will need paper on a daily basis
 Multi-colored Pens
 #2 Pencils/#2 Mechanical Pencils and Lead
 Writing utensil holder—if desired
o small bag, designated place in backpack or trapper keeper, etc.
o this helps keep you organized, which leads to success!
 Three-Ring Binder
o STURDY, as large as you can find if you are sharing with another class
 5 Pack of Tabbed Dividers (as desired)
 USB Drive
o High need!
o for saving documents related to the projects
o can be shared with another subject and used throughout high school career
 Art Supplies—as desired
o Desired supplies may include: construction paper, markers, colored pencils, crayons, and/or glue. I will only provide
supplies for specific class activities. Be sure you have supplies available!
o Desired supplies may change based on the project throughout the year
 Other Items
o As this is a project-based class, other items may be required as we work. You should get notice as needed.

Five Keys to Successful Learning

Expected Classroom Behaviors

1. Be prepared and on time.

2. Respect yourself and others at all times. Do not bully or gossip. 4. Do as you are asked the first time and without complaint.
3. Accept responsibility for your actions. Do not make excuses. 5. Make learning your top priority.
 Introduction and Syllabus
Project Based Learning

Project Based Learning Signature Form Grade 7 L. McGinnis

Please fill out and return the following form to Mrs. McGinnis. Thank you!

I acknowledge that I have received, read, and understand the paperwork for Mrs. McGinnis’ PBL course. This
includes the Introduction and Syllabus, Supply List, and Expected Classroom Behaviors sheet. I understand
that if I have questions about anything or trouble obtaining supplies that I should contact Mrs.
McGinnis.

________________________________ _______________________
Guardian Name (please print) Relationship to student
____________________________________ ___________________
Guardian Signature Date

______________________________________
Student Name (please print)
_______________________________________ _________________
Student Signature Date