English II Honors Syllabus

I. Rationale:  This accelerated course provides instruction in the basics of composition and literature. Students are given the opportunity to think, write, and speak effectively.

 

II. Course Description and Goals:  British and world literature reading assignments include the study of literary themes and genres in order to develop the students’ ability to interpret, appreciate, and enjoy literature.

 

Specific Learning Goals: Students will learn to analyze, think critically, and write, while discussing the similarities in literature through multiple genres and cultures. Students will also study and practice the fundamental elements of composition, grammar, vocabulary, responsible research methods, and standardized test preparation.

III.  Textbooks:

• Prentice Hall Literature – The British Tradition
• Perfection Learning – The Essential Guide to Language, Writing, and Literature
• Outside Novels:
• The Book of Lost Things, by John Connolly

• I am the Messenger, by Markus Zusak

• A Separate Peace by John Knowles

• A Tale of Two Cities, by Charles Dickens

• Brave New World, by Aldous Huxley

 Materials:  

• A notebook dedicated to English class

• 5 – 7 pocket expandable poly file envelope

• Flash drive 
• Please be prepared for class
• You must save all writing assignments. There will be a portfolio assignment during the fourth quarter. You will need to rewrite all essays and more.

 

IV. Grading Policy

Assessments

• Class Participation and Homework Grades
•  Weekly or bi-weekly assessments (tests & quizzes)
• Quarterly Reading Assessments
•  Quarterly Writing Assessments

ü  NO LATE ASSIGNMENTS (Except for an EXCUSED absence)!

Students can earn points by

•   Participating in class discussions (answering questions and/or adding to the quality of an on-going discussion).
•  Writing reactions to class topics, activities, and discussions (@ least three well-constructed and detailed sentences identifying specific content from the class)

Students can lose points by

• Not completing homework assignments.
•  Not actively engaging in class activities (sleeping, doing other homework, etc.)
•  Participating in behavior that presents others from actively engaging (speaking out of turn, treating others in the room with disrespect, etc.)
• Coming to class late, unprepared, or without appropriate books and materials.

Note Buddies:

    Each student is expected to have a Note Buddy who will take notes in the student’s absence. The absent student is responsible for obtaining these class notes and assignments from his or her buddy.

 

Attendance Policy:

     Students are expected to complete all homework assignments. If a student is absent, he or she should obtain that day’s assignments from his or her Note Buddy or via Edline. This homework will only be accepted if it is personally given to me with the following information on the front page:

1. Absent
2. Date you were absent
3. Reason you were absent
4. Assignment you are making up

Classroom Expectations:

     Students must abide by the following expectations in order to maintain a positive learning environment and achieve course goals:

• Class begins at the bell with a prayer; be in your seat at the bell.
• Show consideration for the ideas and contributions of others by listening attentively and responding respectfully.
• Avoid from bringing food and beverages into the classroom unless otherwise noted.
•  Refrain from writing on the desks or walls; use your paper. Clean up after yourself before leaving the room.
• Request the assistance of the teacher to adjust windows, blinds, or fans.
•  Keep cellular phones and other media devices in your backpacks or lockers. They may not be used during class; otherwise, a detention will be earned.

 VI. Academic Integrity

     Each student in this course is expected to abide by the rules on cheating and plagiarism found in the student handbook. Any work submitted by a student in this course will be the student's own work.