Course Title: English3-4Mira Mesa High School 2016-2017 Course Syllabus

Teacher: Mary Jewell, Ed.D Email: hone: 858/566-2262 Ext. 4041

Classroom Website:

Course Description: In this course, we will develop our reading and writing skills through a broad study of non-fiction and literature. We will write frequently in many formats, work to develop vocabulary and reading comprehension, and improve speaking competence.

Prerequisites: none

Textbook(s):none

Supplies/Materials Needed: Handouts provided in class, independent reading book

Supplies Recommended:notebook, paper, pens/pencils

Student Fees:

The California Constitution mandates that public education be provided to students free of charge, unless a charge is specifically authorized by law for a particular program or activity. The following are specific exceptions to the prohibition on fees, charges and deposits at the kindergarten through 12th grade level (some legal provisions related to child care programs and adult education are not listed here). These fees, charges and deposits are legally permissible because they are specifically permitted by law. (Note: This list is based on legal authorizations, but the inclusion of a permissible fee, charge or deposit on this list does not necessarily mean that District schools currently assess the fee, charge or deposit).

Please visit the SDUSD Student Fees section for the completed list and additional resources by clicking here: SDUSD Student Fees or go to: then click on Student Fees in the menu on the left side.

Academic Honesty Policy:

All students are expected to abide by the Mira Mesa High School Academic Honesty Policy which is clearly outlined in the Student & Parent Handbook as well as posted online with school registration forms for students and parents to review.

Class Rules and Consequences:

  1. You are expected to come to class prepared to work (with handouts provided), complete all assignments, participate fully in class activities, and follow directions. Anyone with behavior issues can expect a parent contact, after school detention, a meeting with the school counselor and/or Vice Principal, and other disciplinary actions.
  1. Tardies and numerous absences will make it impossible for you to be successful in this class, so regular attendance is crucial. You are expected to follow the MMHS Attendance Policy regarding clearing absences and tardies.
  1. This class will have a significant online component using the class website and other online applications. You are responsible for completing all online quizzes, discussions, and research. If you do not have a computer at home you must plan to use a school or library computer to complete these assignments. See me if this is a serious issue for you.
  1. We will also be using student netbooks, the Promethean board, and other technology frequently during class. You are expected to use this equipment carefully and appropriately. Damaging or misusing the equipment will result in loss of privileges to use it and possible charge to repair/replace.
  1. Anyone wishing to be excused from class for a special event, such as a field trip with another class, a performance, or a game/meet must be passing English. Please check your grade before you ask for permission to be excused or you pay for an activity. There will be no exceptions, so do not ask.
  1. No hats, beanies, berets, etc. Religious head-covering only.
  1. There may be times when use of your cell phone will be permitted as part of the class activity. At all other times, keep phones and other devices turned off and put away. I will confiscate any device I deem to be distracting, and your parent may pick it up from the Vice Principal. There will be NO warnings.
  1. Please take care of trips to the restroom before class. Anyone requesting to be excused to the restroom will turn in his/her cell phone to me while out of the classroom.

Academic Grading Policy:

You must pass this class to graduate! Grades will be determined by the following assignment categories and weights:

Academic Writing: 35%

Other assessments: Projects,Tests, Presentations : 35%

Skillbuilding Assignments: Homework, classwork, quizzes 30%

The grading scale for this class is:

A= 90%--100% of total points

B= 80%-89% of total points

C= 70%--79% of total points

D=60%-69% of total points

Make-up/Late Policy:

All major assignments for each novel or unit will usually be given at one time, and will all be due in two to three weeks from the date assigned. Smaller assignments may also be assigned as we work through the unit. Credit is given for completeness and quality of the work, as well as for turning it in on time. Should you miss an assignment due date, you can still turn in the work during the grading period in which it was assigned, and only lose the on-time points. Full credit will be given if you have an excused absence the day something is due and you turn in the assignment the same day you return. Quizzes or tests you miss due to an unexcused absence will not be made up.

Assignments are posted regularly on the class website. It is your responsibility to check the site regularly. If you have completed all class requirements and still wish to improve your grade, you may ask for extra credit.

Support Policy:

I am normally available in the classroom from 7:15-7:30, during lunch, occasionally after school, and by appointment. I will respond to emails and telephone calls outside of instructional time, usually within 24 hours.

Online Grade Access:

Grades can be foundon PowerSchool. Grades are updated at least every two weeks.

Citizenship Rubric: Citizenshipwill be evaluated using the Mira Mesa High School Citizenship rubric.

MIRA MESA HIGH SCHOOLCITIZENSHIP RUBRIC FOR 2016-2017

Attendance
(Absences must be excused within 72 hours) / Behavior
E = Excellent /
  • 1 or fewer unclearedtardies
and
  • No unexcused absences
/ The student almost always:
  • Participates in learning.
  • Follows classroom rules.
  • Displays on-task behaviors.
  • Is respectful to others.

G = Good /
  • 2 or fewer unclearedtardies
and/or
  • No unexcused absences
/ The student usually:
  • Participates in learning.
  • Follows classroom rules.
  • Displays on-task behaviors.
  • Is respectful to others.

S = Satisfactory /
  • 3 or fewer unclearedtardies
and/or
  • 1 unexcused absence
/ The student sometimes:
  • Participates in learning.
  • Follows classroom rules.
  • Displays on-task behaviors.
  • Is respectful to others.

N = Needs Improvement /
  • 4 or fewer unclearedtardies
and/or
  • 2 unexcused absence
/ The student rarely:
  • Participates in learning.
  • Follows classroom rules.
  • Displays on-task behaviors.
  • Is respectful to others.

U = Unsatisfactory /
  • 5 or more unclearedtardies
and/or
  • 3 or more unexcused absences
/ The student almost never:
  • Participates in learning.
  • Follows classroom rules.
  • Displays on-task behaviors.
  • Is respectful to others.

Participation in learning means:

Working with classmates, engaging in discussions, asking questions, and other collaborative activities as appropriate.

Follows classroom rules means:

Following teacher directions and school rules.

Displays on task behavior means:

Completing work as assigned, asking for help when necessary, reading silently when required.

Respectful to others means:

Refraining from put-downs and other malicious criticism, not touching others’ property, keeping hands to oneself.

Course Title: English 3-4 Mira Mesa High School 2016-2017

Teacher: Mary Jewell, Ed.D

My signature below indicates I have read and understand the policies and rules of this class and will do my best to fulfill the requirements and expectations. If you need a copy of this document in a language other than English, please contact me at 858.566.2262 ext 4041 or .

Student Name (PRINT): ______Period: ______

Student Signature: ______Date: ______

Parent/Guardian Name (PRINT): ______

Parent/Guardian Signature: ______Date: ______

I prefer to be contacted by:

Phone: ______

Preferred Contact Number(s)

E-Mail:______

Preferred Email Address

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