English 12 – British Literature
Course Syllabus
Ms. Mathews – Room 308
Internet: http://mathewsenglish.wikispaces.com/
Email:
The course is a survey of British literature. Students will explore works from the British literary canon to strengthen their critical reading skills.
Course Objectives
Students will be able to
n understand the purpose and significance of reading critically
n evaluate interpretive literature that illuminates certain aspects of the human condition
n think critically about the social, political, and scientific issues raised in the fiction and essays
n evaluate self (and other’s) writing
n understand the literary traditions from which British literature has grown
n extend the command of language through rhetoric, grammar and vocabulary study
n learn techniques of literary research, documentation and presentation
Texts
Prentice Hall Literature: The British Tradition
Supplemental Reading
Macbeth
A Tale of Two Cities
Classroom Expectations
You are taking a literature course with an emphasis on writing. Outside reading is mandatory as it prepares you for discussion for the next day of class.
You are expected to arrive on time and use class time wisely. I consider you tardy if you are not in your seat when the bell rings. Please review the school tardy policy on p. 6 of the Parent/Student Handbook/Planer. Three tardies will equal one unexcused absence, which may affect your exam exemption status. Always come prepared. A reading check quiz will be given following assigned at-home reading. Late homework assignments will not be accepted.
A comment on late work: Late work is a nuisance. It creates extra work for me, it prevents me from returning graded tests and quizzes to the class, and it encourages procrastination. However, I understand that life is full of unexpected surprises or hardships. Therefore, each student will have the opportunity to drop one missed homework assignment for each nine weeks.
For extended assignments, especially essays, I will accept the assignment one day late with a letter grade deduction. I will not accept anything beyond a one-day grace period. Students with an illness and/or extended absence will make arrangements with me and we will determine a make-up schedule on an as-needed basis.
Makeup Work: If you are absent, you must contact me as soon as you can. If you are absent on the day of an announced quiz or test, you are expected to make up the assignment the DAY YOU RETURN to school. It is your responsibility to find me. If you play a sport and will miss class, you must see me to get your assignments BEFORE boarding the bus.
MATERIALS
Blue or black ink pens
#2 pencils
3-ring binder with 5-tab divider
Loose –leaf paper
highlighters
GRADING POLICY
Tests and significant writing assignments will count 40% of the nine weeks grade. Quizzes will count for another 40% of the nine weeks grade. A preparation/participation grade will count for 10% of the nine weeks grade, and homework will make up the remaining 10%.
1. Preparation grades are based on proper materials brought to class. Students must bring their notebook, pen and pencil, and textbook and/or vocabulary workbook every day. Students without these materials will not receive credit and are not prepared for class.
2. Participation grades are based on class conduct. Students who are sent out of the room for disruptive behavior, who sleep during class, and/or who leave their desks before being dismissed will not receive participation credit for that day.
3. Homework grades are based on reading check quizzes or collected assignments. Students must bring their homework to class the day it is due. Since homework is checked at the beginning of class, it cannot be made up at a later date.
STUDENT EXPECTATIONS
¸ Be on time and prepared!
J Engage in polite and respectful conversation. Allow your classmates the opportunity to speak without interruption.
? Follow directions the first time they are given.
Challenge yourself!
Message to Seniors:
Many of you will complete your college application packets this fall and winter, as well as request mentors for your senior project. I am willing to help you as much as possible; however, please keep in mind that I might not be able to accept last-minute requests. Please submit requests to me in a considerate and timely fashion.
For college recommendation letters, I will need you to provide a “brag” sheet or a list of your high school accomplishments. Include leadership, scholarship and community service highlights from the past four years.
Many colleges ask the teacher to mail the recommendation in a separate envelope. If this is the case, please provide a stamped, addressed envelope.
Please feel free to ask me for help. J Just keep in mind the more time I have to prepare your letters, the more complimentary and effusive I can make them!
Please keep a copy of this syllabus in your notebook. Please have your parents complete the information sheet and return to me as your first homework assignment.
Complete this sheet and return to Ms. Mathews
English 12
Ms. Lynn Mathews
995-5730 X3308
Email:
Internet resource: http://mathewsenglish.wikispaces.com/
PARENT INFORMATION FORM: Please provide contact information and let me know which method you prefer.
Name(s): ______
Child’s Name: ______
Daytime Phone Number: ______
Home Phone Number: ______
Email: ______
Please add any comments regarding your child that you think I should be aware of in the space below.
Please read the following classroom expectations. Fill out the information sheet and return no later than Friday, January 29, 2010.
Class Expectations
· Homework assignments will be given regularly.
· Outside reading is mandatory for this class.
· Students are expected to come to class on time. I do not allow students to leave at the beginning of class to go to their lockers or the restroom. Students are aware that they are going to class and should plan accordingly.
· Classroom information (lecture notes, upcoming assignments, homework information) will be posted on my website: http://mathewsenglish.wikispaces.com/
· Students should use their planers to record daily assignments.
I look forward to an exciting and challenging semester.
Ms. Lynn Mathews
I have read the course guidelines and understand the expectations for my child.
______
Parent Signature Date