The objective of Media Communication class is to develop a deeper awareness of the power mass media has on American culture, as well as to produce critically literate individuals who are able to effectively analyze and evaluate the media messages they consume everyday. Students will assess and communicate information in a variety of formats by writing papers, making formal presentations, participating in discussions, and producing video and/or multimedia projects.

Assessment and Grading

Throughout this semester, you will be assessed on your ability to communicate your media literacy through your behavior (participation, punctuality, effort, and homework completion) and your demonstration of achievement on learning targets (formal writing assignments, formal presentations, and video productions).  The behaviors associated with achievement, will be assessed on an on-going basis, and you will receive feedback on these through conferencing with me, and I will post successes and obstacles on PowerSchool. Your achievement in this class will be the foundation of your grade in Media Communication. There will be periodic assessments of your achievement, and those will also be posted on PowerSchool. At the end of the semester, we will have a final exam that will be worth approximately 20% of your semester grade. The final exam is an opportunity for you to fully demonstrate that you developed a deeper understanding of the power mass media has on American culture. 

Course Expectations

Media Communication requires you to be collaborative. Use this as an opportunity to strengthen your ability to work more thoughtfully and productively on your own and with others.  I am committed to planning a curriculum that is interesting and meaningful for each of you.  In return, I expect you to make an honest effort to challenge yourself to learn and grow as much as you can this year.

Ways you will demonstrate that honest effort:

• Come prepared and on time to class each day.
• Actively participate in class discussions by listening to your peers and responding to their ideas in meaningful ways.
• Be willing to make mistakes and learn from them.  Never hesitate to ask questions.
• Give everything you do your best effort.  Feel pride in your accomplishments.
• Take creative and intellectual risks
• Remember that mutual respect, courtesy, a good sense of humor, tolerance, and appreciation of each other’s uniqueness are all essential to creating a great classroom environment. Be considerate of others.
• Communicate with me in a timely manner about your behavior and achievement in my class.