Course Title: American LiteratureMira 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, guided by the Common Core standards. 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
Supplies Recommended: notebook, paper, pens/pencils, independent reading book
Student Fees:
The Constitution of the State of California requires that we provide a public education to you free of charge. Your right to a free education is for all school/educational activities, whether curricular or extracurricular, and whether you get a grade for the activity or class. Subject to certain exceptions, your right to a free public education means that we cannot require you or your family to purchase materials, supplies, equipment or uniforms for any school activity, nor can we require you or your family to pay security deposits for access, participation, materials, or equipment.
Under certain circumstances, students involved in extracurricular programs, clubs and/or sports may be required to attend fundraising events held by the program, sport or club just as you may be required to attend any other event put on by that program, club or sport. However, you will not be required to raise funds as a condition of participation.
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:
- You are expected to come to class prepared to work (with notebook, paper, and pens/pencils), 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 this class. 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.
- No hats, beanies, berets, etc. Religious head-covering only.
- 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.
- Please take care of trips to the restroom before class. Anyone wishing to be excused to the restroom during class 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 are 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 given 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 and due dates 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 found in PowerSchool. Grades are updated at least every two weeks.
Citizenship Rubric: Citizenship will be evaluated using the Mira Mesa High School Citizenship rubric.
MIRA MESA HIGH SCHOOL CITIZENSHIP RUBRIC FOR 2016-2017
Attendance(Absences must be excused within 72 hours) / Behavior
E = Excellent /
- 1 or fewer uncleared tardies
- No unexcused absences
- Participates in learning.
- Follows classroom rules.
- Displays on-task behaviors.
- Is respectful to others.
G = Good /
- 2 or fewer uncleared tardies
- No unexcused absences
- Participates in learning.
- Follows classroom rules.
- Displays on-task behaviors.
- Is respectful to others.
S = Satisfactory /
- 3 or fewer uncleared tardies
- 1 unexcused absence
- Participates in learning.
- Follows classroom rules.
- Displays on-task behaviors.
- Is respectful to others.
N = Needs Improvement /
- 4 or fewer uncleared tardies
- 2 unexcused absence
- Participates in learning.
- Follows classroom rules.
- Displays on-task behaviors.
- Is respectful to others.
U = Unsatisfactory /
- 5 or more uncleared tardies
- 3 or more unexcused absences
- 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: American Literature 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 .
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