All rules and codes of conduct set forth in the 2007-2008 Joppa High School Student Handbook are to be followed. In this classroom, you are, at all times, to observe the following guidelines as well:

I.  Use your time in this class wisely.

A.  English is the most important class you will take in high school.

1.          In English, we will open windows to other eras and learn something about ourselves. Then we will write about it.

B.  You will learn more about life in this class than most other classes.

C.  Come in, be seated, and engage yourself in the learning process.

D.  The class is over when I dismiss; do not begin to put away your books and paper before the bell rings.

II.  Folly is the cloak of knavery. (William Blake)

A.  Ask for an explanation, and I will tell you how it applies to English class.

III.  Note taking is a requirement.

A.  Use a loose-leaf notebook (one where pages may be removed or added).

B.  Take notes at all times.

1.          In class while we talk,

2.          At home when you do your homework.

3.          When you read.

4.          In other classes.

5.          And, especially take notes when you read.

C.  Notebooks must be kept in chronologic order and adhere to the following list:

1.          Write on one side of the paper only.

2.          TRIPLE space entries (this provides room to return and add information).

3.          List and define vocabulary words.

4.          Write the date on each page.

5.          Include relevant information, such as chapter numbers and especially page numbers.

D.  Strive to improve your note taking skills. Your rewards will return on your report card.

IV.  Reading is Mandatory.

A.   Each reading assignment should be repeated three times.

1.          Read the first time to know what happens in the story.

2.          Read the second time to study and understand specific detail and writer style.

3.          Read the third to time to savor the stories greater meaning or significance. (This is the fun part!)

V.  Be responsible.

A.  Be prepared and on time.

1.          This means you should be in your seat and prepared to begin class when the bell rings

B.  English is a 24/7 class.

1.          You will not do well if you think only about English when you are in my class. English requires much thought and you must learn to think outside the classroom. This is all attitude and I will know if you are applying yourself.

C.  After an excused absence, it is the student’s responsibility to acquire, complete, and turn in make-up work.

1.          The time allocated for make up work is the same as that the class had for the original assignment. Any assignment still due one week after the original due date must have my approval before being submitted.

D.  No food or drinks are allowed in the classroom. Refer to the Student Handbook for clarification.

E.  If you come to class unprepared and feel the need to return to your locker to retrieve what you have “forgotten,” you will be charged with one tardy.

F.  Take responsibility for your own education.

1.          Reach for it with all your might every day. I can tell if you are reaching; you come to class ready to work and you will be prepared. You will:

a.          Know the complete date on any given day.

b.          Do the work; read and write.

d.         Turn in assignments in a timely manner.

e.          Be prepared.

VI.  Other Requirements

A.  I must sign a participation slip for you to engage in any club or organization sponsored activity; however, my signing is contingent on your grade. A grade of “C” or better in English is required.

1.          If you want to go on that cool field trip tomorrow, work on your English grade today.

B.  Take possession only of that which belongs to you.

1.          Leave alone the belongings of others, what belongs to the school, and what belongs to me.

a.          This includes rearranging anything in my classroom.

b.         Do not move the desks.

c.          Do not mar or deface anything that belongs to me or the school.

d.         Do not change the thermostat setting.

e.          Do not disrupt the learning environment in any way.

i.      You will be asked to leave.

I have read and understand the above rules of Mr. Marrs’ classroom and the rules set forth in the Joppa High School Student Handbook. I am aware that if I choose not to follow the rules and guidelines that I am also choosing to suffer the consequence of my actions.

 Click here for a print version of these rules.