Language Arts II : American Literature
Ms. Neues
Welcome to LA II!
This class will focus on several big ideas through American literature. These big ideas include, multiculturalism, tolerance, the American dream, and imagination. We read several works from American authors such as Emerson, Lee, Steinbeck, Fitzgerald, and more. Through these author’s works we will explore research and expository writing as well as textual analysis and creative pieces.
What you will need to succeed:
· Please come to class prepared to listen, learn, and contribute.
· A big part of this class is discussion – come into class having read the material required and ready to participate in class.
· Bring all your materials to class.
o Binder/Notebook (I suggest having sections, but it is your choice – do what works best for you).
o Pens/pencils – I have no preference
o iPad. We will use it EVERYDAY!!
o Textbook/novel we are working from.
o Independent Reading material (book, magazine, comic, etc).
o Suggested: Highlighters, post-it notes, headphones (for independent time).
Language Arts Department Grading Policy:
Categories / Possible Min and Max PointsFormative Assessments
· Quiz
· Writing drafts
· Discussion / 10-50
Summative Assessments
· Published writing
· Test
· Project / 50-100
Participation
· Group contributions
· Discussion
· Digital discussions / 5-20
Independent Practice
· Homework
· Classwork / 5-20
Grades will be done on a point system. This means your average is calculated by taking the number of points you earn and dividing it by the number possible. (Example: There are 15 assignments in the MP worth 450 points total and you earn 396 points. Your grade would be an 88 {396/450=.88}
Expectations:
· Participation – Much of this class will require you to work in groups, and participate in whole class discussions. In addition to being expected to be an active member during these sections, you are expected to have RESPECT for your classmates’ ideas, thoughts, feelings, etc. Disrespect, judgment, and harsh words will not be tolerated in this class.
· Assignments – All assignments (except homework) are due at the beginning of the block on the day determined in HARD COPY form (unless otherwise specified). Late assignments lose 10% a day (not class). Late homework will be half-credit.
· Absence - If you miss a class, you are expected stay up-to-date with work either by checking on Google Classroom, asking a friend, or emailing me directly. Tests and quizzes missed must be made up in the testing center (unless other arrangements are made) within one week of the day you return.
o If you miss class, but are in school (trip, nurse, guidance, etc) You still need to submit the assignment electronically OR put it in my mailbox in G314.
· Finally, ALL SCHOOL RULES MUST BE FOLLOWED. See your student handbook for details.
Extra Help and Contacting Me:
Ms. Neues – You can always email me at . I am also available most days after school, if you need extra help. My mailbox is in G314 if work needs to be dropped off to me. My desk is in G323. Also, the Writing Lab is open M-TH afterschool in room G308 if you need extra help and I am unavailable.
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Language Arts II
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