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Course Description:
This elective course will include a deeper study into all forms of American Literature, from early settlers to present day authors. This course is designed to help prepare you for your future beyond high school. As we enter into the 21st century, it becomes even more important to know and understand major writers of our country and their work, including characters and quotes. This course will help you tie it all together, and learn to appreciate our literary American heritage.
Our studies will also focus on vocabulary building, writing skills and test taking skills.
General Classroom Guidelines:
Students are expected to follow all Harrison Community School rules as written in the handbook. Students are expected to bring books, notebook paper, English notebook, and a pencil/pen to class each day. (Preparation and organization are essential to success in English III.)
Only one locker pass and one restroom pass will be permitted each marking period. Additional restroom passes will be given at teacher’s discretion.
Students are expected to stay on task, show respect for self and others, and behave in a manner that allows everyone to learn to the best of his/her abilities. No GUM chewing is permitted!
Grading Scale & Process:
Assignments will be graded according to the following scale:
B+ = 87-89 C+ = 77-79 D+ = 67-69
A = 94-100 B = 84-86 C = 74-76 D = 64-66
A- = 90-93 B- = 80-83 C- = 70-73 D- = 60-63
E = 59>
Grades will be calculated on the computer using these percentages. Most assignments will be weighted as one. Quizzes, tests, and projects will weigh heavier. Note that percentage grading differs slightly from point grading. Percentages show an overall picture of knowledge and effort, not merely a record of points earned on individual assignments. A minimum level of achievement (60%) shows minimal knowledge and/or effort while higher percentages reflect higher levels of achievement. REMEMBER: In a percentage-based grading scale, some effort is better than none (EX: 14% is better than 0%).
I will have your current grades available on a computer printout everyday throughout the quarter as well as online at the school's website. You may see me at any time to check on your current grade status. Remember, it is your responsibility to know your grade each week. Check to be sure there are no errors. The grades in your English notebook should match the printout.
English Notebook:
An English notebook will be required for English III. This will organize your English assignments and be especially useful when preparing for semester exams. A three-ring binder is recommended but a comparable notebook may be used if it can be divided into five visible sections. These sections must have some type of dividers. The sections should be clearly labeled and in this order:
1. agendas
2. vocabulary
3. literature
4. writing
5. reference.
Lined notebook paper should be stocked in your binder at all times; ask before class for refills.
ALL English papers will “live” in your notebook unless you are told it is okay to throw them away. If at any time you need help organizing your notebook, see me; however, be sure to organize daily not just when they are due for a notebook check!
Three-ring binders are available at many local stores. It doesn't need to be pretty - just functional. If you need help accessing a notebook please see me immediately.
Homework Policy: Attendance is ESSENTIAL to success!
Expect to have English III homework 2/3 times a week in addition to long- term assignments.
1. Homework assignments are due on the day set by your teacher. NO LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED. An assignment is considered late if it is not submitted when called for (usually at the beginning of the class period).
2. If you are absent on the day an assignment is due or a quiz or test is to be taken, that assignment must be submitted on the very next day of your return to class. (If you are absent more than one day, you have an equal amount of time to make up the work.)
3. If you have missed the day when an assignment was given, you will have one day for each absence to complete the assignment. Be sure to check the classroom binder to determine make-up work and get missed handouts. THIS IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!
4. On major assignments/projects assigned days in advance, no late assignments will be accepted.
5. Make-up quizzes/tests can be taken before or after school. Sign up for a make-up time. Homeroom make up quizzes are not allowed.
6. Each student will receive ONE late assignment sheet each marking period. This may be used on any assignment (not tests, quizzes, or projects) up until the last week of the marking period. The late assignment sheet must have a parent signature and be stapled to the completed assignment. It must be complete and turned in within ONE week of the original due date. If the late assignment sheet has not been used by the end of the quarter, it may be turned in for extra credit points.
General Topics to be Covered in English III:
The Puritan Legacy Response Writing
American Romanticism Creative Writing
The American Renaissance Formal Writing
American Poetry Vocabulary Practice
The Rise of Realism MEAP Practice
Modern Literature ACT Practice
Contemporary Literature Voice of Democracy
One last note . . .
English III is a challenging course. Literature study is often connected to writing assignments with a constant focus on improving writing skills. Constant vocabulary study will be necessary as will keeping up with reading assignments and writing due dates.
I am here to be a guide toward each student’s individual success. It is through making and correcting mistakes that knowledge will be attained so expect difficulty. If you are ever feeling that you are struggling, please let me know. It sounds obvious, but it will be hard for me to know you need extra help if you don’t tell me. If you ever need me, please do not hesitate to call at home at 539-6723. (I am the only Petrongelli in the book!) This extends to parents also. My planning period is seventh hour from 1:31 - 2:30 P.M. each day.
Good luck! I hope together we learn much and laugh often! Have a great year!
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Please share your syllabus with your parents.
If there are questions, ask now!
(Return this slip for an easy first grade!)
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