“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”-Nelson Mandela
Welcome to 10th Grade English!
This year we will be focusing our studies around a central theme of “man and society.” Our readings will consist of novels, poems, short stories, and plays all relating to this universal theme. Additionally, we will be perfecting your writing, speaking, and grammar skills through a variety of assignments. The ultimate goal of this course is to create proficient students;
however, it is my goal to create in each of my students a passion for literature and the opportunity to continue their
learning in a college or professional environment.
My Expectations
I have outlined my expectations for this class so that we have a successful and productive year. First, and perhaps most important, is respect-respect for each other and respect for ourselves. To garner respect, one must give respect. Secondly, I expect each one of you to come to class prepared to think, question, respond and be an active participant in your learning process. Next, I am hopeful that this year will be rich with discussion and thought, which will lead each of you to a life of
continued learning. Everything we do in this classroom will equip you with the necessary skills to become a productive and successful student both here and in your future academic and career endeavors. Finally, I expect you to have fun with our lessons and our class!
Classroom Expectations
1. You are expected to arrive to class promptly. Late policies follow those outlined in your agenda. 3 unexcused lates will equal one unexcused absence from class. There will be absolutely no exceptions to this rule, so use your passing time wisely.
2. Upon arrival to class, there will be a “Do Now” on the board. You are to begin working on this assignment when you arrive to the classroom. I will not remind you of this; it is your responsibility and this will be taken into consideration as
part of your classwork grade.
3. You are expected to be an active participant in your learning.
4. You are expected to submit all assignments on time. If you are absent, the appropriate time will be given to complete the assignment. It is YOUR responsibility to determine the work you have missed. Please see me during the unit lunch on
the day of your return in B247 Writing Lab to receive missed work. Additionally, you should try to contact a classmate to find out what you’ve missed. If you know you will be absent, please see me in advance for your missed work.
5. You are expected to submit YOUR work only; plagiarism is a serious offense and will result in a zero for the offending assignment and possible failure of the class. It is also a violation of the school policy to “lend” anyone your work; both students will receive zeroes for the work.
6. You are expected to come to class with an open mind and the willingness to consider others’ ideas.
7. You are expected to show respect to everyone in our classroom at all times. Disrespect will not be tolerated and will be dealt with immediately and accordingly.
8. You are expected to follow all of the rules and procedures as they are written in the Student Handbook.
Please gather the following supplies for our class:
1. One three-ring binder separated into four equal parts: literature, vocabulary, writing, and grammar.
2. One single subject notebook for journal writing and reader response logs.
3. Pen/Pencil every day-we will be doing a great deal of writing!
4. A folder to contain all of your handouts/assignments.
5. The required reading/handouts for each day’s discussion/assignments.
6. Post-It Notes
7. Highlighter
8. An independent novel to read in class during STAR.
Grading Policy
The grading policy consistent throughout the English department:
Grading Breakdown for the 2013-14:
Marking Period 1: 60% Assessments 40% Quarterly Exam 1
Marking Period 2: 100% Assessments
Midterm Exam: 10%
Marking Period 3: 60% Assessments 40% Quarterly Exam 2
Marking Period 4: 100% Assessments
Final Exam: 10%
Each marking period will count for 20% of the final grade; the midterm and final are each worth 10%.
***I am available during Tuesday and Thursday lunch blocks in the B240. Any other times are available upon request.***