COURSE OVERVIEW – This class is designed to teach students basic beadworking techniques. Students will learn off loom beading stitches, bead weaving, how to make beads out of FIMO clay, how to create their own glass beads, and how to use various joining and fastening techniques to make beaded jewelry and ornaments. Because beads are found in all cultures and have a fascinating history, class time will also be spent learning about the cultural and historical uses of beads. Beadwork is growing in popularity and becoming an exciting avenue for creative and artistic expression, so there will be opportunities for students to display their work, to learn about the aesthetics of beadwork and to critique and assess their own and others work. Demonstrations will be given on all techniques and processes.

ATTENDANCE AND TARDIES - Attendance is taken at the beginning of each class period. It is the responsibility of students arriving late to notify the teacher that they are present in order to have their names removed from the absence list. In other words, late students must talk to the teacher before taking a seat in the classroom. The tardy policy outlined in the school handbook (Cougar Planner) will be followed in this class.

HOMEWORK – Most assignments will be able to be completed in Beadwork class. However there will be times when homework is necessary. Studying for quizzes or tests and catching up of assignments may have to be done at home. If homework has to be given, students are responsible for completing the homework and returning it to the teacher for grading.

STUDENT CONDUCT – Misbehavior or mistreatment of people and property in this class will not be tolerated. All students have received the student handbook with school rules and regulations clearly outlined. Students are expected to follow school rules and conduct themselves in a manner that shows respect for other students, teachers, staff, and school and student property.

COMMUNICATION – During the semester, oral and written instructions will be given to the class. There will be demonstrations that show proper beading techniques, instructions for assignments, grading criteria handouts, etc. If you don’t understand instructions, or are unclear about techniques being used, or are confused about any aspect of an assignment, please communicate that fact to me. Please let me know when you need assistance because I have to know about a problem in order to help fix it.

BEGINNING AND ENDING CLASS - Students should find their beadwork folder and supplies and put them on their desk as soon as they arrive in the classroom. Tests will be given at the beginning of class and announcements pertaining to the whole class will be given at that time. If the intercom turns on with an announcement from the office, students must quiet down so the message can be heard. At the end of class, students are to put supplies away, finish cleaning up their work area, and return to their seats until the bell rings.

GRADES – Grades are averaged on a percentage basis. All projects, tests, and assignments will be graded so it is important to turn in everything. Assignments not turned in will be given a 0 which adversely affects the total grade point average. The grading scale for Beadwork is listed below.