English I

Mr. Benjamin Williams

301 214 8610

Tips and Important Information

A primary objective of English I is to introduce students to composition and literary genres. To this end we will study the parts of speech, the parts of the sentence, and punctuation in detail. Students will practice these skills through worksheets and writing assignments. The latter will not only concentrate on the proper use of the English language, but also on developing ideas, eliminating wordiness, and improving structure so that the student learns to write a coherent, well-developed, and organized essay. The class will also introduce the components of literature and to the genres of short story, novel, and drama.

  • Text & Materials:
  • Grammar Text & Workbook (Handout & on Finalsite)

Montana 1948, Larry Watson

Mythology, Edith Hamilton

Julius Caesar, Shakespeare, Folger Library edition

Wordly Wise 3000, Bk 9

a class notebook (or loose leaf in his binder)

a binder to organize materials

Tool Kit: blue, black, red, & green pens; pencils; highlighter

Student Planner

  • Attendance: Attendance is one of the most important factors for your son’s success.
  • When your son is absent, he should check Finalsite for missed assignments. I will upload worksheets and assignments.
  • He should see me the day he returns from a full-day absence to schedule missed work.
  • Remember that he is responsible for assignments, quizzes, etc. before he leaves school for games or appointments.
  • Finalsite: Your sons may review their weekly schedule under Resources; I also post quiz, test, paper, and project due dates on the Finalsite Calendar.
  • D Day: This is English test day. We will not have a test every cycle, but he should know his test days. I distribute review sheets before each test; I also hold review sessions before each test.
  • B and F Days: These are vocabulary days. Each B Day we will cover a unit in the vocabulary text; we will quiz on that unit the following F Day. After three vocabulary units we will have a review quiz.
  • Homework:Homework provides the opportunity to practice and think about the material we discuss in class. It also prepares students for upcoming quizzes and tests.
  • Students must be diligent in completing homework and having it in class. Collected homework counts as a quiz grade.
  • Organization:Your son should save all handouts, tests, and papers in a dedicated English binder.
  • Grading:Tests are 40% of the quarter grade; writing assignments 40%; homework/quizzes, 20%.
  • Extra Help:I am available periods 4, 5, 6 and after school. Encourage your son to see me if he has any questions.
  • Communication: Thebest way for you to contact me is via email. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any concerns, and you should encourage your sons to do the same.