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1. To learn to analyze an audiovisual text using a three level model.

2. To create collaboratively a short tribute video of favorite scenes.

3. To participate in academic discussions and reflection.

4. To use the tools and technology to analyze, reflect, and create.

5. To gain knowledge about film production and creative processes.

6. To gain tools toward consensus in collaboration.

7. To explore the different ways of learning using technology and online tools.

8. To strengthen critical thinking skills when watching and critiquing audiovisual texts.

9. To recognize the politics behind the scene and the leadership issue of Hollywood movie making industry.

10. To have an enjoyable and enriching experience viewing, discussing, and reflecting on films.

Requirements

There is no required textbook for the course. Nonetheless, you will be required to read short articles that will be provided via Google Docs and Its Learning. You will view films in class, but, if you are absent, you must locate and view the film privately. I recommend acquiring a subscription to Netflix if you have frequent absences.

What is a “text?”

For the purposes of this syllabus, “texts” transcend print, are multimodal, and encompass a wide variety of twenty-first century literacies. Texts comprise written, visual, audio, digital, and performance texts and include such artifacts as speeches, assemblies, films, television shows, commercials, cartoons, music lyrics, music videos, video games, e-mails, web pages, social networking, instant and text messaging, children’s books, satellite radio broadcasts, comic books, graphic novels, magazines, advertisements, and full-length novels.

Texts in this course will comprise all forms of symbolic expression that create meaning for readers. As a result, texts will transcend strictly print and include visual, digital, and audio sources. We will define this type of literacy multimodal learning. We will also rely heavily on an ability to deconstruct, or break apart, textual messages in order to determine their persuasive foundations. This means that you will revisit basic grammar and then elevate to new levels of grammatical analysis.

Student Responsibilities

The following information is included in the spirit of professional filmmaking and a deep desire to teach you according to the highest academic standards. You are expected to make decisions in a responsible, respectful and considerate way. The keys to professionalism as a student and filmmaker is the understanding of your own responsibilities as well as respect other people’s work and expression. As FHS students, you are expected to be considerate of your fellow students in the creative and academic process. All FHS Student Handbook rights, responsibilities, policies, and procedures apply to Dr. Carolyn’s English classes.

Policy on Plagiarism

All writing submitted for this course must be original work. Please cite all sources within your writing and in a bibliography at the end of every text you compose. If you do not cite another author’s work within your composition, you will not receive credit for your assignment. It is the English Department policy at FHS to hold students accountable for originality at all times.

Plagiarism is the act of representing someone else’s creative and/or academic work as your own, in full or in part. It can be an act of commission, in which one intentionally appropriates the words, pictures, or ideas of another, or it can be an act of omission, in which one fails to acknowledge/document/give credit to the source, creator and/or the copyright owner of those words, pictures or ideas. Any fabrication of materials, quotes, or sources, other than that created in a work of fiction, is also plagiarism. Plagiarism is the most serious academic offense that you can commit.

Assignments: Timeliness, MLA Style, Type/ Pen, and Originality

Unless otherwise stated, all assignments are due at the beginning of class. For example, you should print an assignment prior to class. All assignments should meet MLA style requirements. Please note: Dr. Carolyn cannot see pencil, so she can’t offer you input if you write in pencil. If you write in pencil, your assignment will be returned to you.

Grading: Grading is typically as follows:

One day assignments: 5 points

Extended day/ process assignments: 10 points

Quizzes: 8- 25 points

Compositions and Projects: 25 - 50 points (depending on complexity)

Presentations to the class: 10- 30 points (depending on time requirements)

Conclusion

I’m really looking forward to learning alongside you during this school semester. Please know that I want you to come see me if you have any personal, academic, or extracurricular difficulties that might interfere with your success as a learner in this English class. Good, honest, and open communication is always the best way to establish and maintain a positive relationship. Keep in touch!

Dr. Carolyn

Parent/ Guardian Sign-Off's

Summarizer: Essential Questions for our Film Viewing

What roles does film play in the contemporary world?

How is film both an art form and a way to convey meaning?How do different people understand and define themselves and their experiences through film?

How can we learn to assume critical distance from film messages and still enjoy films as entertainment?

What can we learn about our own and others' lives from viewing and analyzing films?