English IV  - Syllabus     Fall Semester 2006

Course Description:
      This senior English course provides a college-preparatory examination of  British/English literature, an introduction to classic world literature, vocabulary  study, and practice in writing and research skills.  The writing will also emphasize  grammar and usage.
  

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.  Failure to do so may  result in a loss of percentage points and, in repeated cases, disciplinary action.   (Preparation and organization are essential to success in English IV.) 
      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.  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 IV.  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 or that test must be taken 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 or quizzes) 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 Subject Matter to be Covered in English IV:
  
  Literature from:                                                           Expository Writing (may include):
  The Anglo-Saxons                                                               Cultural Literacy Autobiography
  The Middle Ages                                                                  Critical Analysis
  The Renaissance                                                                  Interpretive Essay
  The Restoration                                                                   Analysis of Cause and Effects
  The Romantic Period                                                            Controversial Issue Essay
  The Victorian Period                                                             Research Paper
  The 20th Century                                                                 Problem/Solution Essay

       Each quarter, an independent project will be assigned.  This work, with  some classroom instruction, will be completed by the student during their own  free time (in addition to the daily classroom assignments).  Each project   will be worth half the total points for that quarter; therefore, it will be    impossible to pass the class without turning in the project for that quarter.

One last note  . . .

      English IV 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  third hour (tentatively) from 10:23 - 11:26  A.M. each day.
 Good luck!  I hope together we learn much and laugh often!  Have a great year!

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