English I & II: This course is designed to continue your knowledge of standard English grammar, reading skills, writing skills, and speaking skills. This course is heavily based on various literary works, both fiction and nonfiction.
We will follow all school rules. I will collect MP3 players, knives, lighters, and hats so please do not have them out in class.
ALL cell phones must be placed in the basket provided at the beginning of the period. You may pick your phone up as you exit at the end.
Respect is very important in life and in this classroom. You should pay attention when I am talking or when another student is talking. Do not interrupt when another student is talking. You are encouraged to joke at appropriate times but goofing off is not acceptable. Also, derogatory or hurtful remarks are NEVER acceptable and will not be tolerated. I give extra credit on participation for observed good manners. (Being polite, opening doors, etc.)
Be prepared- you should always have your materials when you come to class and you should have already gone to the restroom. I do take participation points for not having materials (you are welcome to hide a pencil if needed). When the bell rings you should be in your seat and ready to work. As soon as the bell rings, you should start getting out your AR book for individual reading time.
Pay attention and stay on task. Each day I have X amount of material to cover. If we do not complete the work, it will be assigned as homework. (No make-up, fixing hair, getting up during class, etc.)
When the intercom comes on you should be completely silent. Unless you have an emergency, stop what you are saying and pick up after the announcement.
If I have to be out of the room you should be in your seat and working. If you do not have an assignment to work on you should read in your AR book. (This should rarely, if ever, happen)
Snacks are a PRIVILIGE that is allowed in my class. If you leave trash, have bad behavior, etc. your privilege will be revoked.
Bathroom/ leaving class- It is important that you are in class as much as possible, so try to go to the bathroom and get snacks between classes. However, there will be times that you have to go. This should rarely happen. If it becomes an every day occurrence I will not let you go unless you have medical note. The one at a time method is how it works in my class, and I may only let you go at transitional times not in the middle of a lesson. You WILL NOT be able to leave my class to get a snack, so DON’T ask.
Thoughts:
Always ask questions, I strongly believe that there is no such thing as a stupid question. You will NEVER be made fun of in this classroom for asking a question. Most times if you do not understand, others in the class need clarification as well. Be a leader and ask! Also, keep in mind that is why I am here. I like working with you!
Interaction is important! Participate in discussions, it will help you understand the concepts and it makes the class flow and more fun. It is also part of your participation grade.
This is where a good work ethic will make all of the difference. If you are willing to work you WILL do well in this class.
Ask for help if you need it. I am always glad to see you- even outside of class- just to chat or clear up questions. If you have difficulty asking questions in class, see me between periods or during homeroom. If we cannot sort it out quickly, I will be glad to work with you after school.
I understand that we all have bad days from time to time and I have tried to build in ways to keep those days from affecting your grade. Any test or quiz that you fail may be brought up to a 70. Many essays may be corrected to a passing score.
I do not give make-up work according to excused or unexcused absences. You may make up any work you miss; however, IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO GET THE WORK AND COMPLETE IT WITHIN 5 DAYS OF THE ABSENCE! Attendance is very important and work missed in this class is difficult to make- up. Please be here if at all possible.
You are required to keep a notebook for this class. You will have a notebook test at least once each grading period. The notebook should always be up to date because there will be pop quizzes on completion!
You will be given a grade sheet each 4 ½ week that must be signed by your parents. This will count as a test grade. (100 for bringing it back in the first 3 days then losing 10 points each day after.)
Most writing assignments will have a rubric for grading.
Our primary goal is to learn and I hope that we can have fun as well. A good attitude, a strong work ethic, and coming to class prepared will make this class easier and more enjoyable.
I have tried very hard to create a room that is pleasant, stimulating and attractive. Please help maintain this environment by picking up your trash and straightening your desk each day. Do NOT write on my desks!
You are required to keep a notebook for me. This should be a three ring binder used only for this class. You need a set of (6) dividers and loose leaf paper for the notebook. You also need two different colored writing utensils for editing exercises. Highlighters will make things easier but are not required. Post-it/Sticky notes are also needed for this class.
I love teaching and interacting with (you) my students and I hope we can make this a GREAT year!