CLASS: 8th Grade English

TEACHER: Miss Buchanan

Email: lbuch@rams.colostate.edu
Planning Period: Period 3
Availability: 6:45 am- 7:30 am (otherwise available by appointment)

CLASSROOOM PHILOSOPHY
In this classroom, we will create a unique community. Every person will know that they are
respected and loved, which will be evident by the way that we treat each other. Together, we
will establish the classroom norms and expectations that will allow us to establish the
community. Those who fail to follow those expectations will meet with me one-on-one to
discuss the situation.

POLICIES

GRADES:
A: 90-100%
B: 80-89%
C: 70-79%
D: 60-69%
F: 60% or below

Projects/Papers (40%)
Assessment (30%)
Homework/In class assignments (20%)
Participation (10%)

I will return graded work as soon as I complete it. If there are any questions about the grade,
then you will need to address it within 1 week of the returned work. I will not discuss anything
that was returned over a week before.

HOMEWORK/LATE WORK

Homework will be turned in at the beginning of the class period, unless otherwise stated. If you
are going to be missing class for any reason, I ask that you meet with me to discuss the timeline
to make up the work. I WILL NOT accept any work after two weeks of the initial due date. There
may be a deduction on the grade as a “late fee.”

TESTS/QUIZZES
TESTS: Tests will vary in format throughout the semester. Each test will consist of either
multiple choice, matching, or short answer. There will always be a take home essay that will go
along with the test.
QUIZZES: There will be several reading checks throughout the year. Quizzes may be announced
or unannounced.

PARTICIPATION
Participation will be graded on contributions to the class. This does not necessarily mean
verbal, although that is one way to participate. Work ethic, organization, and respect will all be
taken into account on participation.

ABSENCES/TARDIES
EXCUSED ABSENCES: I ask that if you know in advanced that you are going to be absent to come
to me before to get any work you may be missing. If you are unable to, then come to me after.
We will discuss a timeline that makes sense for you and myself.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES: If you are unexcused, work can be made up for half-credit. Please meet
with me to discuss the timeline that makes sense for both of us. After 3 unexcused absences,
you will no longer be able to make up work for credit.

TARDIES: 3 tardies will equal 1 unexcused absence. Please look above at the policies for
unexcused absences.

Parents,
Please read the syllabus carefully. You are as much a part of the classroom as your child is. I
want to keep you in the loop, so I will send out weekly reports of what we are doing in the
classroom. Never hesitate to email me.
Thank you,
Lauren Buchanan

If you have any questions about the syllabus please list on the next page.
BY SIGNING THIS, I PROMISE THAT I HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD THE SYLLABUS.

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QUESTIONS: