Hutchinson Central Technical High School
Course Syllabus
Course Name: English 11R
Instructor: Mr. Potter Contact Time: 9:42-10:23 Phone Ext: 1423
Grading Policy
Every assignment that is given will be have a numerical value placed on it depending on its level of difficulty, time spent completing it, and/or level of importance. For example, an essay or a test is going to be worth at least a 100 points, but a vocabulary quiz or a classroom writing assignment may only be worth 25-30 points. Each marking period we will have between 500-and 700 total points, and however many points are earned is the grade. For instance, if there are 100 points that represent class quizzes, a writing assignment, and vocabulary quizzes and a student has earned fifty of those points, then his/her grade would be a fifty average. Graded assignments will include vocabulary quizzes, formal essays, creative writing assignments, homework, classroom assignments, and literature based tests and/or quizzes.
I try very hard to offer students every opportunity to do well in my classroom, and by grading in this fashion I hope to create a more well- rounded and accurate assessment of the students’ ability to perform in this English class.
Homework Policy
Homework will be given on a consistent basis. If there is not a written assignment to be handed in or a reading assignment to be completed, then every student is expected to study his/her notebook, vocabulary, or essay outlines. Most homework assignments will be collected and/or graded, and the teacher holds the right to do a surprise check on a Friday to see the previous Monday’s homework. Any student who does not hand in his/her homework will be expected to serve detention with me in room 423 after school in order to make it up. A lot of our assignments will be long term projects, and the students are expected to be working on them on them on a daily basis.
If a student is absent or has some sort of emergency, then I would simply ask for an explanation. At that time, in most cases, an alternative plan will be worked out. Students are responsible for their own work, and any missing assignments.
Test Policy
Students will receive tests in essay form, fill in blank, and multiple choice. Each test will be worth 100 points in most cases, and students are responsible for making those tests up if they are absent on that day.
Quiz Policy
The students will be expected to complete a variety of quizzes throughout each marking period. Those quizzes may consist of vocabulary words, notebook checks, writing techniques, literary terms and/or elements, and reading quizzes.
If a student is absent he/she will have the opportunity to make it up. However, if he/she is not given that opportunity, then that particular assignment will not count against his/her grade .
Projects
We will be doing some project work throughout the year. For the most part there will be at least one long term assignment per marking period. For example, the photography project will help students connect their writing to their vision of the world. Also,the novel project will help students prepare for their final exam, while at the same time help then discover a joy for reading. Finally, the "Vision of the Future" project will allow students the opportunity to explore careers, and the best colleges for their future.
The goal of these projects is to help students improve their writing skills, reading skills, and critical thinking skills, while at the same time develop their sense of imagination and/or creativity. Most importantly, the students will discover a greater understanding of "voice".
1. "Visions of the Future"
2. "Disease"
3. Photography"
4. "Novel"
5. "Alternate Book"
6. "Music and Poetry are One"
Course Outline
Course Content
The English curriculum is designed to improve speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. In this class there is a strong focus on helping students develop critical thinking skills, and life skills. We do this by emphasizing individual talents, and trying to improve upon our weaknesses. English is a humanity, and in simple terms this means the curriculum will touch upon human qualities. For instance, we will develop communication and leadership skills, as well as understand the importance of having both long term and short term goals. The goal is to empower students to gain ownership of their education, and take charge of their future.
In this classroom students will read multi-cultural literature from a variety of authors across a vast amount of genres. Every student will delve into poetry, short stories, novels, a few plays if there is time, and even a few articles in an effort to broaden horizons, and improve reading skills. In terms of writing, students have to feel comfortable writing before they can be expected to write good essays. As a result, the students will engage in creative writing assignments on a consistent basis, and will use this as a springboard into the world of formal essays. We will write short stories, and we will create an environment that encourages both imagination, and creativity.
The main focus of this classroom is on the four learning standards for English Language Arts provided by New York State. Every lesson will address at least one of these standards, and by doing this the students will be prepared for their final exam. This course will provide students with the opportunity to engage in a series of hands-on learning activities, and this classroom will be student centered.
Finally, throughout the year the students will be preparing for the New York State Regents Exam. It is a two day exam, and it consists of four essays and a few multiple choice questions. Students will receive an outline for each essay, and we will do several practice essays as we move on through the year.
Expectations
Very simply put, every student is expected to come to class every day prepared to work. This means having an English notebook, pens to write with, a folder, and paper each and every day. Also, students are expected to hand in assignments on time. If there is some sort of extenuating circumstance, then a written explanation is expected. If a student knows in advance he/she is going to be absent for a long period of time or he/she is not going to be able to hand in an assignment on time, then it is strongly recommended that he/she find a moment to talk to me about the situation. Failure to do homework or class assignments without my permission will result in detention in room 423.
Overall, we want to strive for excellence here, and every student is asked to perform at that level. We all have to respect one another, and we all have to work together if we want to be successful.
Availability
Every student here is strongly encouraged to ask questions as needed, to set up appointments if there are concerns of any kind, and to feel comfortable contacting me. If a student needs or wants extra help we can meet by appointment before or after school. Also, feel free to contact me by phone here at school. I return all messages as quickly as possible. Communication is a critical aspect of a successful English class, and it is important every student understands he/she can always contact me.
Learning Stndards for English Language Arts
Students will read, write, speak, and listen for:
1. Information and Understanding
2. Literary Response and Expression
3. Critical Analysis and Evaluation
4. Social Interaction