Journalism/Yearbook

Teacher: Alicia G. Vazquez

United South Middle School

Email: avazquez@uisd.net

Tel. (956) 473-7700

Conference Time: 2nd Block 9:12 AM - 10:07 AM

Course Description:

This is a yearlong course in order to create the USMS yearbook. The first few weeks will be a Yearbooks Basics Knowledge Camp (learning to communicate, ethics, captions, headlines, design, photography basics, organization of staff, yearbook terminology). Once the basics are covered, the staff will be put in teams and begin working on their given spread (a spread is two pages in the yearbook). Each spread takes hours of dedication to create and perfect. Students will be required to meet various deadlines throughout the year. Deadlines will be set in advance, and there will be NO exceptions for late work! Staff will create a visually stimulating, well-documented book that reflects the personality of our school. Staff will work as a group; it takes the entire staff to make a successful book. Students will be expected to go to MANY school functions before or after school (ex. sporting events or dances). 

Cameras:

YOU are responsible for safe keeping of the camera when you check it out. Must check out camera/equipment using labagenda.com Do not allow any non-staff person to handle or operate the digital cameras! Any equipment damaged due to gross negligence will be the responsibility of the student and parent.

Supplies: 

Camera Memory Card (4GB or larger) 

Composition Book (100 Sheets)

Pocket Folder (provided in class)

Pencil or Pen 

Grades:

Grades will be given at the end of the six weeks according to school policy.  Progress reports will be issued during the third week of the six weeks.  Students will be graded in different ways:  daily grades and tests.  Percentages are as follow:

Daily Grades (Class work): 50%

Tests: 50%

Class Assignments/Homework:

It is the student’s responsibility to ask for, to complete and to turn in work for excused absences. All students are required to participate with picture taking, writing assignments, reading assignments, and group projects. 

Classroom Expectations:

Be Respectful: Use appropriate language. Be respectful and wait for your turn.

Be Orderly: Follow directions. Keep hands, feet and objects to yourself.

Be Accountable: Be ready to learn. Always have required materials.

Be Responsible: Be on time. Complete all assignments.

Positive Behavior Supports:

1- Verbal and written praise

2- Positive call, note, email to parent or legal guardian

3- Participation in school wide events (extracurricular activities, pep rallies, dances)

4- Homework Pass

5- Certificates, stickers, R.O.A.R Coupons, prizes

Behavior Interventions:

1- Reteach Expectations & Procedures

2- Teacher/ Student Conference

3- Parent/Guardian Conference

4- Withdrawal of Privileges 

5- Discipline Referral to Administration

6- Severe Clause: Refer immediately to administration