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Lesson Plans


RE: parent expectations

From: Christa Wise (cwise.us)
Date: Thu Jan 20 2000 - 07:27:25 PST

  • Next message: Fields, Linda: "advice to student teachers-long list"

    On the first day of school, I send home a handout called "Art Rules!" that
    also includes art room rules and an explanation of grading (which is
    similar to yours). Sometimes I tell them that they have to show me
    something I have never thought of before to get an "A." The parents and
    child sign a tear-off sheet saying they have read the handout. It is
    important that you do not ask for this paper to be returned...let them keep
    the rules.

    Next, at open house, I have an art room "brochure" (3-fold with drawings)
    that addresses the grading, class opportunities, explains AP, tells about
    competitions, and details class expectations. I go over this with the
    parent at that time in the context of their kid.

    Maybe this intimidates the parent...maybe I'm just getting old enough to be
    credible...maybe the best defense is a good offense....whatever, I have
    very few challenges to the grade (not even a peep from the school board
    parent whose daughter's 4.0 was soiled by my B+. She said later, "I have
    too much respect for you to question that grade." Wow, and I was ready for
    the worst).

    It never hurts, of course to save some good examples and to pull out the
    kid's sub-standard work for contrast.

    As an aside, a parent once wrote to me, "I do not know why my daughter got
    a "C," she is a very good drawer." As in chest of drawers? There really
    isn't a better word. Draughtsman doesn't make it.
    Christa

    At 08:41 AM 1/20/00 -0500, you wrote:
    >> In their words " We will not accept any grade
    >> less than an A for Brittany. We expect her to make
    >> all A's."
    >> Why is B such a bad thing.
    >
    >Have you asked the parents whether they've considered the effect on their
    >daughter of their "expectations"?
    >
    >IMO, if you have objective standards and criteria upon which the grades for
    >your students are based, and these are equitably applied to all the
    >students, you ought to be free from condemnation.
    >
    >Larry
    >
    >
    >---
    >
    > 

    ---

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