Classroom Expectations and Practical Advice

• Go to class. You've heard it before. You need to go to class. And you need to go regularly..
• If you miss class, don't come to me and say "Did I miss anything?" Other variations are "Did we do anything important?" or "Are we going to do anything important tomorrow?" I assume that everything I have scheduled for a class is important. You should, too. Instead you should say "I'm sorry I had to miss class. Are there any assignments I need to make up?"
• Go to class on time. I hate to be interrupted during a lecture or class activity, and a late entry is an interruption.
• Go to class prepared. This seems so obvious that it sounds stupid to say it. Be sure you have all materials with you when you enter the room. You will not be allowed to return to your locker to get materials once the tardy bell has rung.
• Participate in class discussions to the best of your ability. Try to be an active participant in your education. I encourage you to be an active, critical thinker. Sitting passively in class doesn't take full advantage of the opportunity you are given.
• Don't talk in class if your conversation is not part of a classroom discussion. Talking when someone else is talking--be it the teacher or another student in class--is rude. Don't.
• No food or drinks, except water, are allowed in the classroom.