• Geography and map skills
• Writing
• Critical thinking and reasoning
• Inquiry and research skills
• Presentation of work

Teaching Methods:
Inquiry based activities, notes, readings, group and individual projects, presentations and simulations.

Notebooks:
Each student will keep a 3-ring binder, which is to include sections for notes, homework, tests and projects. Specific expectations for class behavior, materials, activities, and a grading explanation are included in the notes section.

Homework:
Homework assignments are given following most class sessions. They are typically short and intended to reinforce learning from the previous class or to prepare students for upcoming classes.

Assessment:
Most tests are in a short essay format. Test questions are provided one week in advance to allow students the proper amount of time to prepare. Sample test study questions are on the reverse of this sheet. Some test and quizzes may be short answer, multiple choice, or labeling. Quizzes may be given periodically to check reading.

Vermont’s Framework of Standards has been broken down into Grade Expectations (GEs). Many of these expectations address skills rather than content and are best assessed with performance tasks. These projects and authentic ways to demonstrate learning are a continuing part of classroom assessment.