January 30

Some Basics

Before we go any further, I'd like to make you aware of a few expectations I have for this class (and all of my classes really).

1. Be present

I'm not just talking about being in the classroom, because we all know that we can be in a room and our minds can be elsewhere. To be present you need to turn off your phones and screens (unless you are truly only typing) and be here. Be in these moments. I plan on making them as engaging as possible and I need you to be present in order for this to work.

2. Late work

Any work handed in late (not emailed to me...actually handed in) will not exceed the standard.

I will not accept late work after two weeks.

I will have Academic Initiative AI grades.

• on time and amazing (super polished)  = 100
• on time and good (maybe a few errors) = 85. 
• one class period late = 65
• more than one class period late =50
• more than two weeks late (no credit for AI)

3. Respect

Be safe.

Be kind.

Be gentle. 

This is my mantra with my children and also in my classroom. Be kind to each other. Be gentle with your words and your actions. I sure hope I don't need to review safety :)

4. Work hard

Today we read a piece titled Perfectionism by Anne Lamott. I just want you to keep it in mind as you write. Always. I'll remind you of it later in the semester and may have you revisit it if you are struggling with insecurities or perfectionism.

Homework (we started this in class)

Write about lunch.

You can write about anything associated with this word. How do canned carrots look so uniform and why do they have that crinkle-fry look to them? Why is it when you walk into a lunchroom you feel like everyone is staring at you even though maybe only three people even notice you. What was it like eating hot lunch as a child (or cold lunch for that matter)? I feel kind of like cold lunch kids were playing the lottery each day, or that maybe each day was like Christmas (yum...salami cheese and pickle sandwiches (pesto please) along with pineapple slices and goldfish) or perhaps more like report card day (peanut butter and jelly...soggy white bread...an old apple). I could go on and on about lunch.