Syllabus

English Language Arts (S.A.I.) Syllabus 

Teacher Contact Information: 

Mrs. Batres 626- 960-7741 ext. 87012

Email: jmbatres825@bpusd.net 

Availability: Mon., Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 10:40-11:30 & Wed. 11:02-11:49 

Introduction: 

Welcome to the new school year! I hope you had an enjoyable summer break and are ready for a successful school year. This class will set you on a path to high school graduation and either community college or a vocational program of your choice. With hard work, dedication, family and teacher support you will have every opportunity to obtain a high school diploma. Remember, you are an important member of our team and we must work together to ensure that you graduate and become a productive citizen in today’s society. 

Course Description: 

Students will work towards earning high school credit in English Language Arts. Some of the academic skills students will work towards improving include (but are not limited to) reading and analyzing various pieces of literature or content material, building reading fluency and reading comprehension, improving written/oral expression, and developing problem-solving/critical thinking skills to name a few. Students will show growth with their English language skills by demonstrating their understanding of the subject material through student work samples i.e. successful completion of virtual class work, participation, projects and assessments. 

Course Objectives/Common Core Standards: 

Lessons will be modified as well as aligned to the CA Common Core Standards, district pacing guide and most importantly students’ IEP goals. The ultimate goal is to graduate students who have the ability to be critical thinkers and problem-solvers who are able to communicate, collaborate, and express their creativity in today’s world. In order to support student learning, IEP accommodations/modifications will be implemented in my English class. 

Required Textbook/Workbook(s): 

Every student will be issued a SpringBoard English Language Arts consumable book, which should be kept in the classroom. Selected novels will also be provided at book pick up time. Students will be responsible for taking care of their books. Upfront Magazines will be used to support learning, which will be provided.

Student Materials: 

Fully charged chromebook is required daily 

Notebook or binder with lined paper & at least 2 pens or pencils daily 

Class Rules: 

1.Be ready to learn by the time specified for our class period.  That means in your seat. 

2. Be tolerant and respectful of others. 

3. Communicate in a respectful manner during whole class meetings and breakout sessions. 

4. No use of profanity or negative chatter. 

5. No talking out of turn during teacher lead activities, instruction, or peer readings. 

6. Pay attention to the task at hand, do not visit other websites or use other apps while class is in session. 

7. No eating, chewing gum, wearing hats, or using cell phones will be allowed during class. 

Consequences: 

1. Verbal warning 

2. Final warning/counsel and parent contact 

3. Parent contact/removal from class period 

4. Email to assistant principal outlining your behavior and a discipline referral 

5. Parent meeting or possible IEP addendum for habitual poor behavior 

Severe behavior: Immediate Referral 

Class Expectations: 

1. Students are expected to be active learners and log on google classroom daily. 

2. Students are expected to complete all assignments to the best of their ability. 

3. Students are expected to ask for assistance as needed. 

Grading Criteria: 

Grades are mainly based on class work, participation, behavior and effort. However, the senior project and quizzes/tests can certainly affect one’s grade. Students are given ample time to complete their assignments. Assignments turned in reasonably late will receive partial credit. The only exception is if a student has a valid excuse such as illness, family emergency, etc. and is cleared by the office. 

Grading Scale: Citizenship: 

100%-89% A Outstanding 

88%-79% B Satisfactory 

78%-69% C Needs Improvement 

68%-56% D Unsatisfactory 

55%-0% F 

Parent Involvement: 

Parents are highly encouraged to take an active role in their child’s learning and contact me with any concerns, comments, or questions. Please check your child’s grade on Synergy or Google Classroom regularly and hold

them accountable early on in order to avoid issues with grades. I can be contacted through email, in person or virtual conference (by appointment). 

Extra Instructional Support: 

Students can receive extra assistance with any school work either before school or during lunch. It is their responsibility to self-advocate and communicate with me if they are having difficulty on a school assignment. 

Homework: 

Students will not receive daily homework, but are highly encouraged to read at home at least 30 minutes a day. Also, any unfinished class work will become their homework. It is their responsibility to ask for missed assignments when absent and submit work accordingly.

Assessments: 

Informal and formal assessments will be given at the conclusion of a lesson or chapter. I understand test taking can be stressful and overwhelming for many students, therefore I weigh assessments lower than class work. With that being said, I still expect students to prepare by reviewing and studying subject material prior to taking  a test/quiz.