ENGLISH 9
Survey of English Literature
Benjamin D. Alexander
Eastmoor Academy High School
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Class Overview
Welcome, new 9th graders and families of Eastmoor Academy!
My name is Mr. Alexander, and I will be your teacher for English 9 for the 2020-21 school year. Even though we're starting under unusual circumstances, I am very excited to get to know you all!
English 9 is a survey of English Literature. That means, throughout the year, we are going to be reading and discussing a wide variety of different texts from around the world.
Each quarter will focus on a specific text, accompanied by other readings, along with some other forms of media such as film and music. We will use these texts to explore some of the larger issues in society: Why are we here? Why does suffering exist? How can we make the world a better place?
That being said, the most important key to success in this class is to READ! Since all of the work for this class is derived from a central text, usually a book or a play, it is absolutely necessary to read what is assigned.
Who am I?
My name is Ben, but you should call me Mr. Alexander I was born here in Columbus. This is my fourth year at Eastmoor, and I'm so excited to be back.
In school, I am energetic, optimistic, and probably a little annoying. I love working with students one-on-one and getting to know them. My favorite things to teach are writing and Shakespeare.
Outside of school, I'm definitely a bit more relaxed. I have a variety of interests. I love to cook, I like all kinds of music, and I love to enjoy both of those things with my friends and family.
And here's a little video message!
Frequently asked questions:
Q: When do I need to come to class?
A: Take a look at the Schedule tab at the top of this website. When it's time for your class period to begin, you will enter into a zoom call where I will take attendance and give directions for the day.
Q: What will I need for class?
A: For now, everything you need will be made available to you via the internet. That includes readings, videos, and coursework. This means that as long as your device is connected to the internet, you will have everything you need to be successful in class.
Q: What is your absence/late work policy?
A: Due to the unusual circumstances that we are living under, my policy for absences and late work is very relaxed. If you know you are going to miss class ahead of time, try to let me know via email so that I can give you what you miss.
In the event that you do miss class, all of the work you missed will still be available on Google Classroom.
Late work will be accepted for excused absences. Try not to fall too behind on late work, as new work will continue to be assigned.
Q: Will I need to buy a book for this class?
A. Probably not. Almost definitely not. Not while we're virtual, for sure.
Q: Do you give a lot of homework?
A. Depends on who you ask. Of course I think my workload is reasonable, but I also understand that people struggle with different things. If reading or writing is something that is difficult for you, let me know and we can start to work together on a solution.
Q: Is this class hard?
A. Honestly? Yes. You will be challenged to read more difficult things than you have before, your ideas and thinking will be challenged, your ability to multitask and keep yourself organized will be more challenged than ever. It's going to be hard for all of us.
However, if we work together, I know that we'll be able to make it.
Just like the end of all movies.
Important Websites:
Google Classroom: this is where your readings and coursework will be posted. You will turn in your work via Google Classroom and also receive feedback from me there!
Zoom: For the time being, the only way for us to talk face-to-face is via a webcam! I use Zoom, so make sure you have it installed on your device.
Google Drive: All of your files that you create using Google are saved here.
Clever: Occasionally, you will be asked to travel to another learning platform. Clever is the landing site for all of the other learning platforms that Columbus City Schools uses. You can even access Google Classroom through Clever!
EA Attendance Office website Stay up to date with things happening building-wide at Eastmoor
EA Library & Learning Commons website: If you're looking for even more opportunities for reading and writing, check out Ms. Toure's website!
Contact:
If you need to get in touch with me outside of class, the best way to reach me is by email (balexander@columbus.k12.oh.us). In the future, be on the lookout for a code to join a Remind group for your specific class period.