Course Information

  • Professional Communication blends written, oral, and graphic communication in a career-based environment. Careers in the global economy require individuals to be creative and have a strong background in computer and technology applications, a strong and solid academic foundation, and a proficiency in professional oral and written communication. Within this context, students will be expected to develop and expand the ability to write, read, edit, speak, listen, apply software applications, manipulate computer graphics, and conduct Internet research.

    Supplies: Needed in class every day.
    • ID (worn above the waist)
    • Binder/folder for notes & classwork
    • Notes/Handouts
    • Classwork
    • Pens & pencils
    • Notebook paper

    Good Organization is Essential: You are required to save all your notes and handouts throughout the entire semester in a folder or binder. If using dividers, the following sections are suggested:    

    • Activities
    • Notes
    • Assignments
    • Projects
    • Other

    Make-up Policy: Computer/internet access will allow you to complete most missed work outside of class. However, it is your responsibility to double check with Ms. Manning about missed work, either before or upon returning from an absence, and to turn in all make-up work within the allowed time frame (district policy allows two make-up days for each day you were absent). However, if you are present when an assignment, test, project/presentation is announced but absent on the day it is due, then it becomes due on the day you return to class; although, the teacher reserves the right to reschedule presentations or tests if needed. Group projects/presentations will not be postponed if at least half of the group is present on the due date. See student handbook/grading guidelines for further details. Exceptions require prior parent contact.

    Participation:
    Participation and a positive attitude are the keys to success in this class. Students will be required to give individual, team, and group speeches/presentations.  Most presentations are summative grades (50% of the quarterly average) so participation in presentations is extremely important. I do keep in mind that public speaking is very difficult for many students, so we begin with simpler topics and guidelines. Extra credit is only offered occasionally.  Students are solely responsible for completing their work on time and being prepared for all presentations.
    Easley Money: 
    Mrs. Easley's reward system for positive communication and appropriate educational/professional behavior in the classroom. Each Easley Money may be redeeemed for a small prize (pencil, eraser, keychain, etc.)  or extra credit -- 5 points added to the student's "Extra Credit Bank" in the Gradebook. All points in the bank are directly added to the Summative Grade Category -- so, if a student earns a 65 on a test and then turns in 1 Easley Money to add 5 points to their bank, it is in effect bringing up the 65 to a 70. Students may earn Easley Money in a variety of ways, including but not limited to:
    - Class Challenges: Each class competes against Mrs. Easley's other classes throughout the day.
    - Substitute Teacher instead of Ms. Easley??? Automatic "BEST BEHAVED" Class Challenge is ON!
    - Group or Partner Challenges: Small groups or partners compete against other groups/partners in the class.
    - Individual Challenges: Each student competes individually against the other students in the class.
    - Random Drawings: When time allows, student(s) may be randomly drawn to earn a Easley Money if they:
    1. have been sitting in their assigned seat and not playing games during class.
    2. have kept their cell phone turned off and in their assigned numbered phone pocket for the entire period.
    3. are able to produce their own completed set of written class notes from the day or unit when asked.