World Mythology Course Description

Instructor: Ms. Laurent Email:

Office hours: 3rd and 4th

What do drivers’ tests, “Lord of the Rings,” tattoos, and King Arthur have in common?

Find out how to recognize the symbolism in stories, films, and everyday culture!

Classroom Goals

In this one-semester elective English class, you will be learning about different myths and legends from the Middle East, Ancient Greece and Rome, Scandinavia, Asia, and the British Isles. You will be learning about the commonalities among the ways early cultures perceived the world through their stories, identifying common symbols and archetypes, and ultimately reflecting on what relevance it means for our personal lives. The study of mythology should lead not only to a better understanding of ancient cultures, but also of ourselves. In order to gain these insights, contributing to classroom discussions, completing personal reflections, and stretching your imagination will be essential.

Guidelines for Success

  1. Arrive on time with what you need to succeed.
  2. Open your mind to new learning.
  3. Everyone has the right to learn.
  4. Understanding takes work and time.

Classroom Expectations

  1. Be respectful of people, things, and ideas.
  2. Listen attentively; contribute appropriately.
  3. Be kind…no put-downs.
  4. Stay on task.
  5. Be prepared for class.

Supplies needed DAILY for class

• Textbook

• Folder

• Notebook

• Writing utensil

In addition, there may be other materials that will be helpful for class when completing projects like highlighters, colored pencils, markers, flash drive, etc.

NOTE: If you do not have a writing utensil or paper with you one day, please quietly go to the designated areas to retrieve some without disturbing others. Please remember to return the writing utensil so that others in need may borrow it.

Grading

• Formative Assessments (30% of quarter grade): These are homework assignments, quizzes, minor papers and activities, and discussion contributions. Formative assessments that are late may be turned in for a minimum of half-credit until the final summative assessment for the unit occurs.

• Summative Assessments (70% of quarter grade): These include tests, essays, speeches, and projects. Summative assessments that are turned in late will be downgraded 5% per school policy, but may not be turned in for credit two weeks later than the deadline.

• It is your responsibility to get clarification for assignments or extra help during the process of the given assignment not after the deadline has passed. If there are extenuating circumstances that prohibit you from completing an assignment on time, see me during office hours to discuss the matter and reach an agreement.

• Daily assignment grades which are formative may be assessed on a 4-point scale, with a 4 being the highest.

•Your midterm exam will be worth 20% of your semester grade and will assess you on an understanding of the material for the semester.

Tardies

You will receive one free tardy per quarter. For second and third tardies, you will have five-minute detentions. Fourth and subsequent tardies result in an office referral. If you do not show up for your teacher assigned detention, you will also receive an office referral.

Absences

Attendance is crucial. Missing days will result in loss of instruction and a loss of much needed work time to complete and fully understand the assignment in class. If you must be absent from class, it is your responsibility to see me about missed materials. Unfortunately, classroom discussions cannot be duplicated. We will be taking notes in class so you will have to borrow those from your peers. If handouts were given, they will be in the folder for class. If assignments were due on the date of your absence, simply put it in the basket. If an assignment was given, you will have one day to make up the assignment. Quizzes and tests must be made up within two days of your absence. See me to make arrangements.

Common Courtesies

• No cell phones, ipods, mp3 players, or headphones once the bell rings. If I have to tell you to put them away after the bell rings, I will confiscate the item and you may pick it up after school in the office.

• Finish food and beverages before entering the classroom. Exceptions will be made for students with health issues. Water is acceptable; soda is not.

Consequences for violating expectations

  1. Verbal reminder about following expectations. If there is a mutual understanding and the behavior stops, we will need no further action. Problem solved.
  2. After school detention to discuss the expectations and your compliance.
  3. Contact with your parent/guardian.
  4. Office referral for persistent problems.

Consequences for Code of Conduct violations will be handled according to the guidelines set forth in the student handbook.

Now let’s get started finding out the power of the myth!