Highlands High School
230103 – English I
2010– 2011 Syllabus
Instructor: Charles Keller
Phone: (859) 815 -2641
E-Mail:
Grade: 9
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Successful completion of 8th grade, teacher or guidance recommendation
Description:
This is a survey and introduction to the genres of literature – short story, drama, novel, mythology, poetry, essay, and nonfiction. Students will read at least two novels and one play. Grammar and usage are taught through writing. Writing assignments will include a personal narrative, a cause and effect essay, a position paper, and a literary analysis, a short story, and a poem. Attention will also be given to reading and writing in the real world with a focus on practical/workplace, informative, and literary texts. The acquisition and development of study skills are emphasized throughout the course. Students will also develop public speaking skills. Students will continue to further develop vocabulary skills.
Comment:
In order to pass the course, the student must complete acceptable portfolio pieces in the following categories: a personal narrative, cause-effect essay, position paper, a literary analysis, and may include a short story and poems as well as a number of open response essays.
Course Standards:
Students will
· Develop reading skills applicable to all literary genres (literary, informational, persuasive, and practical/workplace).
· Read and analyze a variety of literary genres – short story, drama, novel, poetry, and nonfiction.
· Continue to develop writing skills by exploring a variety of writing forms – personal narrative, short story, comparison/contrast essay, feature article or critical review, and open response.
· Read and analyze various forms of informational writing – feature articles, essays, editorials, and news accounts.
· Demonstrate knowledge of the writing process to produce literary and transactive pieces.
· Use the research process to create a focused thesis, to prepare and outline, to use related technology, and to write a documented essay.
· Use related and relevant available technology.
· Continue to develop speaking, listening, vocabulary, and observation skills.
· Students will read and analyze at least four (4) longer works in addition to the summer reading.
Textbooks:
Elements of Literature: Third Edition Austin, Texas: Holt, Rinehart, Winston, 2007.
Odell, Lee, et al. Elements of Language, Third Course. Austin, Texas: Holt, Rinehart and
Winston, 2007.
Shostak, Jerome. Vocabulary Workshop, Level D. New York: Sadlier-Oxford, 2002.
Required Materials:
Assigned texts
Assigned student planner
Notebook
Flash Drive
3 x 5 file cards
Pen, pencil, highlighter
Vocabulary workbook
Grading:
Students will be evaluated (on an accrued point system) on class assignments and activities including but not limited to the following:
· Homework
· Vocabulary quizzes
· Reading comprehension quizzes
· Unit tests
· Projects
· Writing to learn
· Written expression
· Revision of written work
· Positive participation
· Bonus points –when available
Participation and Attendance:
Students are expected to be prompt and prepared for class. Positive participation and proper behavior are encouraged in order to demonstrate learning as well as to foster intellectual maturation.
Course Content/Calendar:
These units may not be taught in this order due to the necessity of sharing materials within the department. Informational reading, practical/workplace reading, research, vocabulary, grammar, and writing are integrated throughout the course of study. Even though these are content units, the course is driven by the skills outlined in the Kentucky Common Core Standards.
The Novel
The Short Story
Poetry
Drama
Mythology
Shakespeare