Valencia CollegeEAP 1620

Intermediate Reading for Non-Native Speakers of English (3 Credits)

Fall 2018Section Course Class Room Class Meets Class Time1454214544

EAP1620EAP1620

5-2145-214

Mon. & Wed. Mon. & Wed.

10:00 am–11:15 am & 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

32758 EAP 1620 2-119 TR 9:45 – 11:20amInstructor Email Address Telephone:Karen Cowden, M.A. Ed./Developmental Ed. Specialist

kcowden@valenciacollege.edu

407-582-1960

Instructor Office Hours: On Campus Hours: Virtual West CampusBuilding 5 Room 143

Monday & Wednesday 9:15 a.m. –9:45 a.m. 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.

Tuesday & Thursday 12:45 p.m.-3:15 p.m.Friday 9:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.

Required Texts

Title ISBN Publisher 1. Reading Explorer 5 978-13052-54510 Heinle Cengage|NG Learning

Student Book with Online Workbook 2. Oxford Bookworms Stage 6: Oliver Twist 9780194792660 Oxford University

Press3. Three-Ring Binder (cover pocket)

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Important Dates:

Class Begins..……………………………………………….

Monday, August 27th

Drop/Refund Deadline........................................ Tuesday, September 4th at 11:59 P.M.Labor Day – College closed……………………………College Night - College closed.............................

Monday, September 3rd

Thursday, October 11th

Mid-Term Exam…………………………………………..

Wednesday,

Withdrawal Deadline for ‘W’ grade ………………..

Friday, November 9th at 11:59 P.M.

Thanksgiving Break – College closed…………….. Wednesday, November 21-Sunday, November 25

Class Ends ………...................................................Final Examination ………………………………………..

Grades Available in Atlas Tuesday, December 18th

Sunday, December 9th Monday/Wednesday: 10 a.m. class (Monday, December 10th 10:00 a.m. -12:30 p.m.)Monday/Wednesday: 1 p.m. class (Monday, December 10th 1:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.)

Course Description: ADVANCED READING FOR NON-NATIVE SPEAKERS OF ENGLISH Prerequisite: Demonstration of required level English proficiency or minimum grade of C in EAP 1520C or EAP 1586C. Students develop ability to comprehend and interpret authentic college-level texts in content areas by applying appropriate reading strategies. Competencies: 1) improving English vocabulary, 2) locating key concepts, 3) reading critically, 4) reading for study and enjoyment, and 5) reading a variety of materials, such as texts, periodicals, journals, and electronic materials. Required lab work is a homework component of this course. In order to pass this course, students must earn a grade of C or better. (Special Fee: $29.00)

Major Learning Outcomes with Evidence, Core Competencies and Indicators

1. Demonstrate comprehension of college reading materials Corresponding Evidence of Learning

Student will be able to employ academic vocabulary to identify and discuss comprehension of main idea

Student will be able to employ academic vocabulary to identify and discuss comprehension of supporting details

Student will be able to employ academic vocabulary to identify and discuss inferences and conclusions

2. Demonstrate receptive and productive knowledge of academic vocabularyCorresponding Evidence of Learning

Student will be able to use context clues to clarify meaning and improve comprehension2

Student will be able to use word structure to clarify meaning and improve comprehension Student will be able to use collocation, connotation, and other vocabulary concepts to clarify

meaning and improve comprehension

3. Apply thinking and problem solving/critical thinking strategies to college level reading materials Corresponding Evidence of Learning

Student will be able to use active reading/thinking strategies Student will be able to recognize patterns of organization Student will be able to identify facts & opinions Student will be able to determine purpose, tone, & bias Student will be able to apply advanced argument

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College Competencies: Valencia Student Core Competencies: Think, Value, Act, & Communicate -

Think: Think clearly, critically, and creatively by being able to analyze, synthesize, integrate, and evaluate in many domains of human inquiryValue: Make reasoned judgments and responsible commitments with empathy and fair-mindedness.Act: In personal, professional, and community settings, act purposefully, effectively, and responsibly with courage and perseverance. Communicate: Effectively communicate verbally, non-verbally, and visually with honesty and civility in different disciplines and settings with different audiences using varied means.

Assessment of Major Learning OutcomesDuring the course of the semester students will be assessed, both formatively and summatively, on their ability to apply thinking and problem solving/critical thinking strategies to college level reading materials and demonstrate comprehension of college reading materials.

Determination of Course Grade1. Class Participation and Attendance:

10%All students are given 100 points, but can lose points for tardiness, off-task actions, disruptions

2. Personal Practice/Lab 20%a. My ELT – one chapter per weekb. Read Theory – two readings per week

3. Assignments/Assessments: 30%Personal:

a. Annotation b. Vocabulary Notebook c. Reading Summary Worksheet d. Cornell Notese. Word Partsf. Reading Organizer(s)g. Portfolio

Team:h. Reading Circlesi. Debate Projectj. Oliver Twist Project

4. Mid Term Exam: 15%5. Final Exam:

25%

TOTAL 100%Grading Scale

90%-100% = A 89% - 80% = B 79%-70% = C 69%-60% = D Below 59% = F

4We use MyELT Course Key AND “Read Theory” for Personal Practice/Lab.

1. You can find the Content Access Code for My ELT on the inside cover of your book or MyELT card. Our Instructor Course Key for this session will be send via Canvas “Announcement”.Go to https://myelt.heinle.com/ilrn/authentication/registerOption.do and follow the registration directions.

2. To register for “Read Theory” follow the directions in the Canvas Announcement. Go to

LETTER FROM THE DEAN: Expectations of a Valencia College Communications Student

Welcome to the Communications Division of Valencia College’s West Campus; we are enthused to have this opportunity to assist you in achieving your educational goals. Higher education is a privilege and an opportunity; it is your responsibility to realize that you are in control of those behaviors and actions that can enable success in this course.

From your professors, you can expect the following:1. They will be prompt, courteous and respectful. 2. They will provide a professional learning environment throughout the entire scheduled instructional

period.3. They will provide an up-to-date syllabus; when changes need to be made, they will announce changes in

a manner that is conveyed to all students in their class.4. They will provide you with a course that is of necessary rigor to prepare you for the career you have

chosen; because the class you are taking transfers to a four year college or university, it will be taught with the same academic expectations. The bonus of starting your education at Valencia, when compared to attending a four year college, is you will be able to get more personal attention with small class sizes and you will be able to save money; the classes are not easier.

5. They will offer time outside of class to discuss your questions.6. They will be available to discuss your class concerns in private, outside of class time; you should try to

resolve your class concerns with your professor before you try to voice your concerns with administrators.

7. They will respond to emails within 2 business days.8. They will expect from you what they have expected from the many students who passed their classes in

the past.

In return, this is what your professor will expect from you:1. You will be prompt, courteous and respectful.

Prompt means you come to class on time, ready to work, with all assignments completed before you enter class or lab. It means that you have studied, that all conversations, texting and diversions come to a stop and that you are ready to contribute to a positive learning environment from the beginning of the class.

Courtesy means you are polite in your attitude and behavior towards your professor and classmates. Respectfulness means that you regard everyone’s classroom experience as valuable to them, that you

accept your professor’s expertise and experience to create relevant course objectives and that you treat college and personal property with care.2. You will read your syllabus; your syllabus is a contract between your professor and you. Be aware of

deadlines to complete assignments on time and know your professor’s attendance policy. You will need to attend class for the full length of time allotted to your class.

3. You will be aware of Valencia College policies and procedures found in the college catalog; ignorance of policies and procedures doesn’t mean they don’t apply.

4. You will be serious about learning; it is your responsibility to be an active participant in your own learning. You will need to devote sufficient time to learn the material presented by your professor; for most students, this means you will need to spend at least two hours studying for every hour of instruction. Learn is an action verb; you will need to do more than sit through class and reread your notes to be successful. To succeed in higher level classes, you must retain the information, concepts and

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We use MyELT Course Key AND “Read Theory” for Personal Practice/Lab. 1. You can find the Content Access Code for My ELT on the inside cover of your book or MyELT

card. Our Instructor Course Key for this session will be send via Canvas “Announcement”.Go to https://myelt.heinle.com/ilrn/authentication/registerOption.do and follow the registration directions.

2. To register for “Read Theory” follow the directions in the Canvas Announcement. Go to

skills you will learn; this can only happen if you work at learning to make the course content a part of your long term memory. Do not cram!!

5. You will be encouraged to produce your own study guides. Most college professors do not provide study guides, but they can give you tips that will help you produce your own study guides to gain a better understanding of the course content.

6. You will be expected to participate fully in classroom activities. The work you produce must be your own; cheating in any form is not tolerated and your professors will have specific consequences, in their syllabus, which will be enforced should cheating occur.

7. You will be expected to contribute to a positive learning environment. Avoid classmates who speak negatively, or who have a negative outlook, about your class or your professor. Instead, get to know your professor during office hours; you will learn much more with a positive attitude.

8. You will be held to a high standard of maturity and responsibility. Disruptive behaviors will not be tolerated in the classroom or lab. First time disruptions will be handled by your professor and may include a request that you leave the class or lab. Very serious or repeated disruptions will be reported to the Dean of Communications and the Dean of Students with specific consequences that can include your permanent removal from the class. Disruptions include:

- Being noisy when arriving late to class or leaving early.- Carrying on private conversations while the professor is talking.- Disrespectful language, tone and mannerisms. - Sleeping or attempting to sleep in class.- Repeatedly asking unnecessary or irrelevant questions.

My wish is that you get the best learning value from the science classes that you are taking. With everyone abiding by the expectations in this letter, your communications classes at Valencia should be the next step in achieving your academic dreams.

Dr. Elizabeth RennDean of Communications, West CampusValencia College

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We have experienced a moment when we thought the computer saved our work, or we had a ride to class, or we got sick, which made

another thing become stressful or unsuccessful. Things can happen in a moment’s notice that make our world

challenging. So, it is important you practice being professional with this course and arrange/plan in advance of a problem. Think of my

class as a model for your career. If you would miss work you would need to inform your manager, just like you need to inform me.

Communicate with me about issues, absences or illness that may be affecting your work or participation. Unfortunately, due to the

timeframe of our course I will be unable to accommodate all requests, yet will attempt to be kind and compassionate to your situation. Since each student has up to three absences, without need of documentation,

bringing me notes is not needed. Simply share the space and learn together, and as best as possible

practice Professor Cowden’s “5 P Rule”.

Professor Cowden’s Philosophy, Bio and Classroom Policies

Professor Biography: Karen Cowden, M.A. Ed./Developmental Education Specialist/Endowed Chair

I am here to collaborate with you along your learning path in college.  Make sure to read my office hours and preferred method(s) of contact and learn the differences between on-line hours versus face-to-face.  My response time to e-mails is 2 business days, not 24-hour service.

I earned my Masters of Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida in 2003, with a specialization in Children’s Literacy and Course Design graduating with Honors. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Florida State University, with a minor in Journalism from Florida A&M University in 1993 graduating with Honors.   I earned my Associate of Arts degree from Valencia Community College in 1991 graduating with Honors.  I hold various roles within the college (and even outside of the college).  Within my work in the Communications Department I teach College Preparatory Reading - Levels I & II and English for Academic Purposes.  Within my work as a Faculty Fellow with the

“Center for Teaching and Learning Innovation” I teach "Facilitating On-line Learning", "Teaching in the Learning College", and "Circles of Innovation" for faculty. It is an amazing opportunity to work for a college that believes in the work-life balance, and helping all learners at any age, with any skills, enhance their lives.  I was once a Valencia College (Valencia Community College back then) graduate and proud to share my experiences in learning and growing with you.  It is a wonderful place to start and if you allow it to happen and take the opportunities for the clubs, free events, tutoring, and more offered through our college - you will develop the 4 core competencies (Think, Value, Communicate, Act) making you a "catch" for an employer.  One thing I did learn not only as a student at the college, but from my dear Aunt Patricia, is the "5P Rule" - Prior Planning Prevents a Poor Performance. So, in this course I hope to have provided you lots of tools to help you plan and prepare for a wonderful learning experience (and a lot of fun!).

I have been at Valencia as a faculty member since January, 2007 and I am deeply involved in the governing work of the college and building a collaborative college community. I have served as or on Faculty Senate (West Campus President), Faculty Council (West Council Representative), Peace and Justice Institute (Committee Member), "Book Round" Club (Communications Division), and now as a Faculty Fellow with the Teaching and Learning Center for West Campus, particularly in Best Practices with student engagement and online format.  It is such fun to be "in-the-weeds" with my colleagues making our community and courses the best and most innovative - winning us amazing awards and helping students get great careers!   In addition to my work with the college I consult with publishers on course content, technology tools, and "Best Practices" for textbooks, online programs, and conferences.  One of my most professional honors is receiving my Endowed Chair,

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four years in a row, generously funded by the William C. Demetree, Jr. Foundation.  The chair focused on building bridges with OSD (Office of Students with Special Disabilities) and Special Needs Students and faculty/deans/staff.  With an award of $3,900.00 to focus on engaging technological platforms to empower students I facilitated the direction and production of 31 speech-language interpreted videos for the REA 0017 exam, which are now delivered via secure testing in the testing centers on multiple campuses.  Further, I hosted two “Dinner and Learn with OSD” sessions where 75 faculty, deans, and other engaged leaders gathered to learn “Best Practices” with OSD Staff, the “Live Scribe ECHO” pen and it’s features, tips and tricks to have “sensitive, yet crucial conversations with OSD students”, and to collaborate with colleagues.  Finally, I purchased 8 “Live Scribe ECHO” pens for student use (checked out from the OSD office on west campus), as well as basic college supplies (notebooks, pens, paper, other items).

Recently I presented at NADE (National Association for Developmental Education), FDEA (Florida Developmental Education Association), FCIE (Florida Council on International Education), and SCADE (South Carolina Association of Developmental Education).  While out on sabbatical in fall, 2018 I continued work on my “Professional Writing Certificate” program at the University of Central Florida. This past December, 2017, my son, Ethan, turned two and he has given me an entirely new perspective on being a parent and working/doing schoolwork.  If you need any support with kid friendly things in Orlando I am here.

I hope you will find that in my course you work on concepts that really intrigue you, inspire you, and even entertain you.  Reading, learning and teaching have been a passions of mine, along with writing personal journals of my adventures around the globe (just ask me to see some of them and I will e-mail you a copy) for many years. So, I hope to pass along that passion with lots of empathy, and caring, to you this semester. Below you will read quite a few class and college policies. It is VITAL that you read these with detail just as you would when purchasing a car, house, or other valuable commodity. A syllabus is a contract, which means we are making an agreement between us on how to engage and experience the semester. If at any time you need support I am here to help you comprehend and complete your contract (syllabus). So, just chat with me; and/or, come by and have a cup of coffee – I am pretty good at cooking, too.

Peace be with you,

Karen Cowden, M.A. Ed./Developmental Education Specialist

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Class and College Policies

1. Free Microsoft Programs Valencia College is pleased to announce that we are now able to offer the Microsoft Student Advantage to our current students!  Microsoft Student Advantage offers students the free Office 365 ProPlus, which is a full version of Office and includes Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Access, and more.  Office 365 ProPlus is a user-based service and allows each student to install on up to five PCs or MACs and access Office mobile applications on iPhone and Android phones.  Your Office ProPlus subscription will remain valid while you are an active Valencia student.

To download your free subscription to Office ProPlus:1.    Log into your Atlas Account2.    Click on the EMAIL icon in the upper right corner3.    If given an option, select Atlas Email

& Office 3654.    Click on the Settings Icon5.    Select Office 365 Settings6.    Select Software7.    Follow the instructions provided to install the software

2. Attendance/Participation/Technology/DevicesAttendance is required, but preparedness and participation are equally important. All students are expected to be in class on time with all required materials and ready to participate, which may include a cell phone, laptop or tablet fully charged and ready to use for lessons and learning. Simple presence in the classroom DOES NOT constitute attendance nor does being on a cell phone, laptop, or tablet for other purposes than learning, sharing, collaborating on our subject matter. Presence in combination with preparedness and participation does. Thoughtful completion of activities will count as attendance for any class meetings. Failure to complete assigned work by the appropriate due dates will be considered the same as absence. Late work may be accepted, at the discretion of the instructor, but will be given only half credit. After 3 absences (arrival past 10 minutes) or 3 redirections to use technology as a tool for learning a student WILL be withdrawn and be financially responsible for any consequences to financial aid, VISA status, or other implications/personal penalties.

Important Note for International Students (F-1 or J-1 Visa): Withdrawal from this course may negatively impact your visa status. Consult the International Student Services office for more information on full-time enrollment requirements.

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Valencia College is committed to providing each student a

quality educational experience. Faculty members have set high

standards of instruction for themselves and for you.

If you have a problem in a class, or your instructor has a

problem with you, the first step is to have a private talk to your instructor in their office during

office hours. If you or the professor are still dissatisfied, either party may talk with the academic dean of the division for your class. We will work

together to resolve any issues that arise.

3. Weather EmergenciesIn the case of weather emergencies, you can find out about school closings by signing up to update your information for Valencia Alerts.

4. Security StatementWe want to reassure you that our security officers are here around the clock to ensure the safety and security of the campus community. It’s important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings, especially during the early morning or evening hours. Remember that you can always call security for an escort if you feel uncomfortable walking alone on campus. White security phones can also be found in many of our buildings; simply pick up the phone and security will answer. Finally, report any suspicious persons to West Campus Security at 407-582-1000, 407-582-1030 (after-hours number) or by using the yellow emergency call boxes located on light poles in the parking lots and along walkways.

5. Students on Financial Aid

Bright Futures withdrawal information:  If you withdraw or are withdrawn by the professor from any course(s) that were paid for by a Florida Bright Futures Scholarship, you are responsible for repaying the cost of tuition and fees for those course(s).

Students on financial aid should consult an advisor or counselor before withdrawing from a course; there may be financial implications to the student which he or she must know about to make an informed decision before withdrawing from a course. Students with some scholarships who withdraw or are withdrawn from a class must pay the college for the cost of the class. Other scholarship sponsors may also require repayment.

6. Withdrawal from the Class: Withdrawing from a college course affects not only your overall G.P.A., but also your financial aid and possible ability to continue with your chosen course sequence. It is best to have a conversation WITH YOUR PROFESSOR for guidance on possible withdrawal PRIOR to making such a CRITICAL DECISION. The professor will not withdraw any student for any reason; it is the responsibility of the student to withdraw themselves before the withdrawal deadline and to be aware of the date of the withdrawal deadline.

If you do not intend to complete the course, you must withdraw yourself prior to the withdrawal date. Review the complete policy at http://valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/policydetail.cfm?RecordID=75.

A student who withdraws from class before the withdrawal deadline noted on the first page of this syllabus under “Important Dates” will receive a grade of “W.” A faculty member is permitted to withdraw a student from the faculty member's class up to the beginning of the final exam period, for violation of the faculty member's attendance policy, as published in the faculty member's syllabus. A student is not permitted to withdraw from this class after the withdrawal deadline; if you remain in the class after the withdrawal deadline, you can only receive a grade of A, B, C, D, F or I. An I grade will only be assigned under extraordinary circumstances that occur near the end of the semester. If you receive an I, the work missed must be made up during the following semester, at which time you will get an A, B,C,D or F. Failure to make up the work during the following semester will result in you getting a grade of F in the course. Any student who withdraws from this class during a third or subsequent attempt in this course will be assigned a grade of “F.” International students on an F1 Visa may lose their F1 Visa due to an attendance withdrawal. Students who do not attend class during the first week of class or online students who do not complete assignments during the first week of class will be listed as No Shows. Student on financial aid will be asked to re-pay the amount of the class.

In order to academically maintain financial aid, students must meet all of the following requirements:

Complete 67% of all classes attempted, and 10

Maintain a Valencia GPA of 2.0 or higher, and

Maintain an overall GPA of 2.0 or higher, and

Complete  degree within the 150% timeframeDetailed information about maintaining satisfactory academic progress (SAP) can be found at: http://valenciacollege.edu/finaid/satisfactory_progress.cfm

7. Baycare Behavioral Health’s Student Assistance ProgramValencia is committed to making sure all our students have a rewarding and successful college experience. To that purpose, Valencia students can get immediate help that may assist them with psychological issues dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, adjustment difficulties, substance abuse, time management as well as relationship problems dealing with school, home or work. Students have 24 hour unlimited access to the Baycare Behavioral Health’s confidential student assistance program phone counseling services by calling (800) 878-5470. Three free confidential face-to-face counseling sessions are also available to students.

8. Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD): Students with disabilities who qualify for academic accommodations must provide a Notification to Instructor (NTI) form from the Office for Students with Disabilities (OSD) and discuss specific needs with the professor, preferably during the first two weeks of class. The Office for Students with Disabilities determines accommodations based on appropriate documentation of disabilities.

Valencia College values all learning styles and learners. As such, I take time to know each student’s strengths will:

Read and review all concepts in my syllabus with the class. Demonstrate to students that Valencia is sensitive to and concerned about meeting

the needs of all students. Encourage students to make their accommodation needs known to me early in the

semester. Contact information: West Campus SSB, Rm. 102 Phone: 407-582-1523 Fax: 407-

582-1326

9. Links to the College Catalog, Policy Manual, and the Student Handbook: Policy Manual - http://www.valenciacollege.edu/generalcounsel/9. College Catalog -

http://www.valenciacollege.edu/catalog/ (includes a description of policies) Student Handbook -

http://valenciacollege.edu/studentdev/CampusInformationServices.cfm

10.Academic Honesty/Dishonesty – Plagiarism All forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited at Valencia Community College.

Academic dishonesty includes, but is not limited to, plagiarism, cheating, furnishing false information, forgery, alteration or misuse of documents, misconduct during a testing situation, and misuse of identification with intent to defraud or deceive. Any student determined by the professor to have been

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Excelsior College Online Writing Lab (OWL) has loads of material on the on plagiarism. Check their website for free support and lessons at http://owl.excelsior.edu/plagiarism/

In addition, this website contains so many resources on writing overall. And there is an ESL section.

guilty of engaging in an act of academic dishonesty shall be subject to a range of academic penalties as determined by the professor. Each student is required to follow Valencia policy regarding academic honesty. All work submitted by students is expected to be the result of the student’s individual thoughts, research, and self-expression unless the assignment specifically states ‘group project.

The penalties may include, but not be limited to, one or more of the following:

Loss of credit for an assignment, examination, or project Reduction in the course grade A grade of “F” in the course

For further detail, refer to the Student Code of Conduct in the current Valencia Student Handbook.

11.Required Lab: Students in EAP courses are required to complete a minimum of two hours’ worth of lab assignments per week. Lab work in this course is comprised of activities that students will do within the online lab program(s) components of the course. This DOES NOT INCLUDE the required textbook reading or Canvas assignments/journals/projects.

12.Atlas & Canvas: Your Atlas account and the class Canvas page are essential tools for your success in the course. Class notifications, progress notices, special readings, and attendance warnings are sent through Canvas (check your Atlas e-mail and Canvas prior to each course meeting). If you need help, technical support and computer labs are available.

13.Final Exam InformationYour final exam will be a paper/pencil test in our classroom. Missing the final exam will result in a grade of F for course until the student takes a make-up final.

14.Make-up Policies and Procedures Students may make-up ONE assignment, test or lab. A written request, via e-mail, is required within 24 hours of missing the due date.

15.Extra Credit PolicyNo "extra credit" is allowed as it takes focus off getting great grades from what is already assigned.

16.Faculty/Student Communication

Emails are formal documents (which means that a Dean or others can request to read notes if needed) that show the professional relationship between student and their professors.  As such, you do have rules to e-mailing that require demonstration of academic skills. 

You can expect to wait less than 2 business days until you receive a response. o For students whose interaction in your course is through on-line methods, we

recommend that they document technical issues (copy emails, save screen shots, etc.).

o Check their emails every other day, at least.

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Excelsior College Online Writing Lab (OWL) has loads of material on the on plagiarism. Check their website for free support and lessons at http://owl.excelsior.edu/plagiarism/

In addition, this website contains so many resources on writing overall. And there is an ESL section.

17.Classroom Rules of Student Behavior – Code of Conduct/Interruptions

The primary responsibility for managing the classroom environment rests with your professor, and you will find the Student Code of Conduct in the current Valencia Student Handbook: http://valenciacollege.edu/studentdev/CampusInformationServices.cfm Disciplinary action could include withdrawing a student from class or initiating a disciplinary warning, probation, suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate and authorized actions.

The consequences for interruption during a lecture/lesson will be redirection to the topic. After the second instance the student will be invited to leave the class and have a private meeting with me in my office prior to returning to the class session(s). The only issue that will be forwarded to the Dean would be those of personally attacking the professor or insubordination. I will direct any student who engages in any prohibited or unlawful acts that result in the disruption of a class to leave the class. Violations of any classroom or Valencia rules may lead to disciplinary actions up to and including expulsion from Valencia.

18.No Food in the Lecture or Lab Rooms (covered drinks only)Covered drinks are only allowed in the classroom. Drinks or food of any sort are not allowed in the classroom, nor lab. Exceptions are during a scheduled class party.

19.Technology in ClassElectronic devices such as cell phones, laptops, or tablets will be allowed for academic engagement. The consequences that will occur if such a device is used for non-academic purposes is that the said student will need to provide snacks for the entire class on the next meeting.

20.“Emergencies “ Many times academic/assignment emergencies can be avoided if you practice the “5PRule”:

I have experienced a moment when I thought the computer saved my work, or I had a ride to class, or I got sick, which made another thing become stressful or unsuccessful. Things can happen in a moments notice that make our world challenging. So, it is important you practice being professional with this course and arrange/plan in advance of a problem. Think of my class as a model for your career. If you would miss work you would need to inform your manager, just like you need to inform me. Communicate with me about issues, absences or illness that may be affecting your work or participation. Unfortunately, due to the timeframe of our course I will be unable to accommodate all requests, yet will attempt to be kind and compassionate to your situation. Since each student has up to three absences, without need of documentation, bringing me notes is not needed. Simply come and share the space and learn together, and as best as possible practice the “5 P Rule”.

21.Support Services Tutoring services are available in bldg. 7-240 (Phone: 407-582-1633) Writing Center/ EAP Lab is located in Building 5 – Room 155 (Phone: 407-582-1812)

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5 P Rule: Prior planning prevents a

poor performance.

The West Campus Writing Center is an appointment-based resource located in building 5, room 155 (Phone: 407-582-5454). At the Writing Center, consultants help students at any point of the writing/learning process. The qualified staff will go over English language assignments with students from all disciplines and courses, college wide, helping with grammar assignments; pronunciation; understanding main ideas and other reading skills; organizing and developing a speech; constructing paragraphs, essays, or research papers; and scholarship essays, letters, and resumes. The Writing Center consultant will not edit or proofread the paper. The student should make attempts at revising and editing on his or her own before coming to the Writing Center. 

The hours are: Monday through Thursday, 8am-8pm; Friday, 8am-5pm; Saturday, 9am-2pm.For more information, please visit

http://valenciacollege.edu/learning-support/communications/writing.cfmSmarthinking (smarthinking.com) is an online on-demand student support site free through “Atlas” Go to the “Students” tab and look on the right-hand side of the screen for “Smarthinking”. Smarthinking offers tutoring in a variety of subjects: math, nursing, allied health, writing, reading, science, Spanish, business, computers and technology. Students have several options: Drop-In Tutoring, Scheduled Appointments, Offline Questions, and Paper Submissions to the Writing Center. Math tutors are available 24/7, here is the schedule for all other subjects. Just added this summer are apps for both iOS and Android devices. Students can access Smarthinking through the Courses tab in Atlas. Please note students have an eight hour limit of usage per semester, an increase from the previous five hour limit. Smarthinking is best used as a back up to on-campus services and support, not a replacement. Directly above the Smarthinking link in Atlas is a link to Learning Support’s website, a great place to check for campus-based information (http://valenciacollege.edu/learning-support/).    Rest assured, Smarthinking tutors are:

 …seasoned educators - 90% have an advanced degree in their fields and they average over 9 years of teaching or tutoring experience. Drawn from college faculty, graduate students, high school teachers and retired educators, all tutors must complete Smarthinking’s online training program and are regularly evaluated for quality and consistency.

Study tips

LEARNING IS AN ACTION VERB! Most students need to do more than just sit through lectures and reread their notes. Spend 1-2 hour blocks of time EVERY DAY actively writing or discussing concepts to make them a part of your memory. Use the words you learn often, they will sink in better. Here are some study and classroom management tips that have assisted former students:- Attend class daily and don’t be tardy. The introduction to each lecture explains the purpose of the entire lecture. Students who follow this rule won’t miss important information.

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- REWRITE YOUR NOTES soon after the lecture; if the instructor permits, tape record lectures and replay to refresh your memory when you rewrite your notes.- Create flash cards with questions you make up from the lecture and lab with answers on the back.- Use mnemonic devises and other games to remember concepts; go to Google images, YouTube and Khan Academy for additional pictures and videos to clarify concepts.- Make lists of confusing topics from your studying and ask questions. - Take advantage of the professor’s office hours.- JOIN A STUDY GROUP and predict what questions the professor could ask on the test.- Get the telephone number of one or more buddies in case you are absent from a class.

Syllabus Changes/DisclaimerThe course outline and syllabus are subject to change as needed; changes will be announced in class (or state how you will contact students with this information, such as by using ATLAS email, Canvas, etc.) in a timely manner, when necessary. Your continued participation in this course after the drop-add deadline period constitutes an agreement with and an acceptance of this syllabus.

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