To build upon oral and written communication skills including fluency, spelling, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing.
To expose students to a variety of literature for appreciation and analysis including short stories, modern drama, non-fiction, Shakespearean drama, poetry, and novels.
To think creatively and develop the ability to perceive and analyze authors’ purposes and techniques including the application of characterization methods, parts of plot, kinds of conflict, point of view, theme, foreshadowing, symbolism, and inferences.
Course Description: This is a two-semester overview of the elements of English. It will include reading, writing, vocabulary, grammar and usage. Students will read a variety of genres, including short stories, novels, non-fiction, essays, poetry, and a play. Written work will include a research paper, essays, and responses to literature from a variety of genres. This course is required for freshmen, or sophomores who have previously taken Introduction to Composition/Literature.
Student Expectations:
Respect everyone and everything inside and outside the classroom.
No food or drink is allowed in this room – no gum
Be ON TIME, and in your seat when the bell rings
Be prepared – this includes bringing necessary materials each day:
notebook – preferably three ring with loose-leaf, college ruled paper with sections for daily oral language, all writings from class, notes taken in class, and book reports (due each mid-term and quarter end) – be sure to date your materials each day
writing utensils
chrome book
a book to read if there is extra time when your work is completed
When I talk, you do not – listen and be prepared to engage thoughtfully
Learn to communicate with me – I am available through the school email, before and after school in the classroom, or you may contact me through the Weebly website: https://ottobcighs.weebly.com
Complete all assignments - ON TIME
Be honest, have a positive attitude, and make the best effort that you can
Academic Integrity Policy: Be honest. Violations include: cheating, fabrication, plagiarism, denying others access to information or material, and facilitating violations of academic integrity.
Upon submission of any work in this class, it is understood that this work is NOT a collaboration with any other person, and that all information and writing therein is only that of the student submitting the work. Anyone caught plagiarizing will automatically fail the assignment and risks further penalties. This does not apply to a group research PRESENTATION, but does apply to the individual PAPER submitted as part of this grade.
Consult Don't Plagiarize: Document Your Research! For tips about how to take notes so that you don't plagiarize by accident – always ask if there is a concern.
Midterm Exam: The midterm exam will include identifications and short answer questions. It will consist of questions about all of our readings during the first half of the quarter.
Quizzes: I will give unannounced quizzes after selected readings. They will usually be five to ten straightforward questions about the text.
5. If you are unable to attend class, please let ME know beforehand or ASAP when you return (if sick or emergency) – don’t check in with other students
6. Use electronic devices at appropriate times. If not, you will be asked to place them in the “bank” until class is over.
Grading:
A 100-93 A- 92-90 B+ 89-86 B 85-83 B- 82-80 C+ 79-76 C 75-73 C- 72-70 D+ 69-66 D 65-63 D- 62-60 F 59 and below
Grading continued:
Grading is figured on total points – everything counts. Daily work and test/quizzes. Semester tests will be 10% of your grade.
If a student is sick, he or she has the amount of days absent to make up the work. On the day the student returns, the assignment for the day that you were sick is to be turned in.
Unexcused absences result in no credit. This is in the handbook.
If absences are known in advance, work must be turned in before you leave for FULL CREDIT. This includes absences for music, sports, or other school related activities.
Tests will be given at the end of each semester. They are 10% of your grade. You need to prepare for these along the way – do not wait until the night before!
If you have questions or concerns about class, please ask me! I am here to assist you in succeeding, and I love to teach – that is why I am here! Let’s have a great year!