ELA Practical/Creative Writing
Mr. Guerra
“Never look down at anyone unless you are helping them up.”
Course Objectives:
The Practical/Creative Writing course will focus on the study of various genres of literature, the writing process, and the strengthening of reading, including vocabulary skills through a rigorous curriculum. You, the student, will explore, interpret, analyze, and reflect on experiences, ideas, and opinions in literary texts. Additionally, you will develop critical literacy skills by listening, speaking, and collaborating with partners, groups, or through individual practice. Our goal is to prepare you for not only a higher education, but for success in your professional and personal life as well.
Course at a glance:
Reading Writing
Quarter 1: Non-Fiction / Fiction Informational/ECR/SCR
Quarter 2: Non-Fiction / Drama / Poetry Argumentative/Correspondence//ECR/SCR
Quarter 3: Non-Fiction / Fiction Informational/ECR/SCR
Quarter 4: Non-Fiction / Drama / Poetry Argumentative/Correspondence//ECR/SCR
*Please note that all units may highlight a specific genre but are linked thematically with multiple genres. In addition, all units are linked with reading and writing assignments that will be linked together in class to further explore each genre.
Classroom Expectations:
Respect: You will demonstrate respect for other students and the teacher by using appropriate language, being prepared for class, following directions, adhering to all school policies, and by keeping an open mind when learning about different cultures, traditions, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Be prepared: Always come to class prepared. This means coming to class on time, getting the necessary supplies needed to complete your daily task, and completing homework when assigned. Tardiness and unexcused absences will have an adverse effect on your grade. Attendance matters at Harlingen South!
Expect great things from yourself and others: Your attitude plays an important role in your education. If you believe you can succeed — YOU CAN! Encourage your classmates to succeed too.
Take ownership of your education: Take personal responsibility for your learning: set goals and evaluate your progress towards these goals. You can also take responsibility for your learning by asking questions when something is unclear, participating in classroom discussions, and asking for extra help if you need it. Take ownership of your classroom. This is your space and your area to learn; help keep it clean and organized.
Electronics Policy
No electronics or cell phones will be allowed during instruction time unless the lesson calls for it or if I have given permission. If any electronics are out during instruction time without permission, the following consequences, in accordance with HCISD policy, will be enforced.
1st offense: Verbal Warning
2nd offense: Confiscated and returned at end of class period
3rd offense: Confiscated, turned into office, and parent contacted.
Consequences:
Verbal Warning
Teacher/Student Conference
Phone Call Home
Referral
*Depending on the level of the infraction, the teacher reserves the right to skip to any consequence that he deems necessary. (Consequences in accordance with HCISD policy)
Late Assignment Policies:
In the case of an excused absence, you must make an appointment before school, during lunch, or after school to make up the missing work. We will follow the HCISD policy for make-up work.
Academic Dishonesty
Students found to have engaged in academic dishonesty shall be subject to grade penalties on assignments or tests and disciplinary penalties in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. Academic dishonesty includes cheating or copying the work of another student, plagiarism, and unauthorized communication between students during an examination. The determination that a student has engaged in academic dishonesty shall be based on the judgement of the classroom teacher or another supervising professional employee, taking into consideration written materials, observation, or information from students [See policy EIA (LOCAL)].
Grading Policies:
Daily Work/Homework/Quizzes 75%
Assessments/Projects/Presentations 25%
Supplies:
-Pencils / Pens
-notebook
Contact Information:
If you or your parents have any questions or concerns, they may email jaime.guerra@hcisd.org
Syllabus Acknowledgment
Students submitting this form on time will earn a 100 on their first daily grade.
This form is due on or before Tuesday August 20, 2024.
SCHOOL: Harlingen South HS
CLASS: Practical/Creative Writing
INSTRUCTOR: Mr. Guerra
YEAR: 2024-2025
Student/Parent Contract:
I have read, understood, and agreed to comply with the guidelines outlined in the course syllabus.
Student Printed Name: _________________________________ ID#: ___________ Period: ____
Student Signature: _______________________________Date: ___________________________
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Parents or Guardians, please fill out the following:
Parents’/Guardians’ Signature: ______________________________________________________
Contact Information:
Home Address: _________________________________ Cellular Phone: ______________________
_________________________________ Home Phone: ______________________
Email Address: _________________________________
Is there anything I should know about your son or daughter to help make this year more successful?