Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What is on the test?
A. Each major test is a five-paragraph essay.  The essay topic(s) are listed on (1) the weekly assignment sheets the every student receives in class, (2) facsimiles of the weekly assignment sheets found on the “Assignments” page of the course web site, and (3) in the course syllabus, a copy of which can also be found on the course web site.  

Q. When is the test?
A. Test due dates are (1) given in class as well as on (2) the weekly assignment sheets that every student receives in class, and (3) on the “Assignments” page of the course web site.

Q. How is the essay test graded?
A. A full explanation can be found in the “Parent Guide to History Homework Portfolios” that you received at the beginning of the course.  You can also find a copy of the Parent Guide on the “Assignments” page of the course web site.  Finally, check the About Tests link on the course web site.

Q. How can I get homework if I am absent?
A. Whenever a student is absent from a Tuesday class meeting, a homework packet is left at the front desk in the high school office. Students may also find get assignments from the “Assignments” page of the course web site.  

Q. What goes in my portfolio?
A. All work pertaining to the subjects covered in a given week goes in the Portfolio.  This includes class notes, reading notes, work sheets, summaries, and any other written work that the students has done during the week.  See the “Parent Guide to History Homework Portfolios” that you received at the beginning of the course.  You can also find a copy of the Parent Guide on the “Assignments” page of the course web site.  

Q. What is my grade in the class?
A. Students will occasionally receive printed grade reports in class.  Students can access their grades through an online, password-protected website.  See the front desk for access to your account.  

Question: How can I get my homework if I miss class or if I lose it?
Answer: In the history and government classes, a homework packet is left at the reception desk for any student who missed class.  In addition, homework and reading assignments are posted on the respective course web sites.

Question: What is my grade in this class?
Answer: You and your parents may look up you scores for all classes.  These grades can be read online 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Each student has an individual password-protected account, so your privacy will not be violated.  You should have received access information at the beginning of the school year.  If you did not, or lost your password, see the front desk for assistance. 

Question: Where do I turn in work, if I missed class?
Answer: If you miss class, you should give the assignment(s) to the ladies at the front desk.  They will deliver it to the proper instructor. 

Question: What can I do if I need another parent grading sheet for a history essay test or my history portfolio?
Answer: Extra grading sheets can be downloaded and printed from the course web site at the bottom of the “Assignments” page.

Question: When is my homework due?
Answer: Due dates are printed on the weekly assignment sheets.  Due dates for Portfolios and essay tests are also found on  the respective course web site at the bottom of the “Assignments” page.

Question: How can I get extra help with my course work?
Answer: Come to the Thursday Support tutoring sessions which are held on campus almost every Thursday during the school year.  All staff are on duty Thursday mornings to help you with your school work.  You may also call the teacher of the class in question and set up an individual appointment.

Question: How do I contact my teacher?
Answer: Every teacher has an e-mail account and a telephone with voice mail. Each teacher’s contact is (1) printed on each course syllabus, (2)

Q. What do I do if I have questions that are not addressed above?
A. Contact your instructor by e-mail at ercervantes@kern.org or by telephone at 661-852-6762.


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