SYLLABUS

Hello Parents/Guardians and Students alike, and welcome! 

I am Mrs. Wright, and I will be your guide through the fascinating world of English 3 and American Literature. English 3 focuses on the study of American literature, writing, rhetoric, research, speaking, and critical thinking. Throughout the course, students will read and analyze a variety of American literary and informational texts, including novels, plays, poetry, short stories, essays, speeches, and nonfiction selections. We will explore how literature reflects American history, culture, identity, and the issues that have shaped our country, while also examining how authors use language and rhetoric to communicate their ideas. Students will develop skills in literary and rhetorical analysis, evidence-based writing, research, argumentation, and oral communication. By the end of this course, students will be able to thoughtfully analyze literary and informational texts, write clear and well-supported arguments and essays, effectively incorporate textual evidence, demonstrate command of grammar and mechanics, participate in academic discussions and presentations, and apply critical-thinking and communication skills to a variety of academic and real-world situations.

Students are required to bring notebook paper and a writing utensil to class each day. (Pencils or pens are fine; however, I request that students do not use red ink when turning in work). Students may bring a designated notebook with them to class if they would like to use one for their daily warm-ups and notes. Students will need to turn this notebook in at the end of every week to be graded and will receive it back at the beginning of the next week.

Phones are not allowed out during class time and must be turned into the teacher as soon as students enter the classroom. The only time students may retrieve their phones is when they are leaving for the day, going to lunch, or their next class. Additionally, Brunswick County is now enforcing a no headphones policy during school hours. If headphones are seen out, students will be asked to put them away. If headphones are seen in class, students will receive a 0 for that day's assignment. After three headphone-related zeros, a phone call will be made home.

When it comes to my classroom expectations, they are very simple. Students are expected to be on time for class every day. If a student is late to class, they must have a pass from the office or another teacher, or they must be escorted. Students are expected to be respectful to everybody in the building. Within my class, I expect all students to be mindful of what they say and when they say it, and to listen to others when they talk. (This includes any staff/faculty/Brunswick County School employees, school substitutes, school guests, and other students.) We all live in a cruel world; it takes nothing to be kind and listen. With that being said, I have zero tolerance for bullying. Parents/guardians, please talk to your students about bullying and its many forms. 

When it comes to classroom policies, I am here to help and support your student! One of my top rules for my students is to ask for help. If a student needs help with anything, I encourage them to sit down and talk with me or even reach out through email. I understand a lot goes on during high school, and many students struggle with their day-to-day lives. High school can be a rough spot for many, and I understand that, so I will do my best to help students. I do accept late work for projects; however, students will lose 10 points for each day a project is late. After three days, students will receive a zero and cannot make up the assignment. If a student is absent, then their due date will begin the next school day that they return. If a student is absent from class due to skipping, then the original due date will remain. If a student needs extended time on a class/homework assignment, please just reach out and I will be happy to help out.

As this is an English class, your student will be asked to write papers. I understand that AI is now a part of many of our lives; however, if a student is caught plagiarizing or using AI to complete an assignment or write a paper, they will receive an automatic 0, will not have the opportunity to make up the assignment, their parent/guardian will be contacted, and administration will be alerted. Plagiarizing is an honor code violation and one that is taken very seriously, please don’t risk it!

If a student is struggling academically or is in danger of failing, I may meet with the student individually to discuss their current grade, areas of concern, and specific steps they can take to improve. In these situations, the student may be asked to sign an academic contract acknowledging that we have discussed their grade and that they understand the steps and resources available to help them improve. These contracts are not meant to be punitive; they are intended to encourage communication, accountability, and student ownership of their progress.

Additionally, if a student chooses not to participate in or complete assigned classwork, I may ask the student to complete an accountability contract acknowledging that they chose not to complete the work and that they understand the potential academic consequences of that decision. This helps ensure that students understand that they are responsible for making choices about their learning and their grades.

Parents and guardians are welcome to reach out to me with any questions or concerns during the school day during my planning period by phone or at any time through my email. I look forward to a great school year with you and your student!

Best Wishes, 

Mrs. Wright -English 3