ENGLISH 1 Course Description Outline
I. Course Title and Identifying Information
Grade 9, Required Course for Promotion & Graduation
1.0 Credit, No Prerequisite Required
Instructor: Ms. S. Gibbs. M.S.
Areas of Certification:
(1) Special Education: N-12
(2) English Language & Composition
II. Content and Purpose
‘Search for Self’ is the overarching theme for grade 9. Instruction in grade 9 is designed to review and reinforce the skills acquired in grades 1-8. The goal is to have students sharpen and polish those skills so they may begin to apply what they have learned to more challenging reading, writing and thinking activities. English 1 begins a close analysis of fiction and the author’s craft. Students focus on grammar, etymology, vocabulary development, and the writing process. Embedded in the course of study are nonfiction analysis, research, and writing in all modes: narrative, informational and persuasive. The course lays the groundwork for more challenging literature and writing encountered in English 2, 3, and 4.
A. COURSE OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course students should know and be able to do the following:
- Critically analyze fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama and the author’s craft.
- Understand the elements of grammar and syntax in composing and editing.
- Write 1 ½ – 2 page essays in all three modes of writing using the writing process and the state scoring rubric.
- Maintain a writing portfolio.
- Produce a formal research paper.
B. REQUIRED TEXTS AND READINGS
Elements of Literature, 3rd Course Holt
Am I Blue?, Marion Dane Bauer
The Odyssey, Homer
Romeo and Juliet, William Shakespeare
III. Elements of Assessment
A. CRITIQUE
All student submissions are weighed based on (1) quality (the effort put forth and the quality of the work) and (2) accuracy (adherence to directions/instructions, correctness of answers).
At the end of the report card period, your points will be added and then divided by the total possible points. You may request to review your grade at any time during the marking period, either in person or via email.
B. POINT SYSTEM
Participation: 2 points per day for totaling 10 points per week. Class work assignments: 5 points each. Quizzes: 20 points each. Tests and Projects: 50 points each. Midterm and Final examination: 75 points each. Homework: 5 points each. C. HOMEWORK POLICY
Homework is assigned a minimum of four times per week for each major subject.
When no written homework is given, students should review class notes and prepare for upcoming tests. Students are also expected to make up all homework missed due to excused absences (time frame for which student has to complete missed homework assignments should be discussed with me).
D. MAJOR ASSESSMENTS
Per quarter, students may expect the following:
3 major assessments (tests and projects)
6-10 quizzes
IV. Teacher Management Policies
A. CLASS ATTENDANCE AND PARTICIPATION
Students are expected to attend class daily, participate fully and take responsibility for their learning.
Students who miss class not only lose instruction and credit for participation, but also lose the opportunity to obtain clarification and assistance.
Excessive absences will most certainly affect the total grade point average as participation and class work is a significant component of the final grade averaged each marking period.
Please refer to the Student Handbook regarding the make-up policy for excused and unexcused absences.
B. ACADEMIC HONOR CODE
All students are expected to do the work required at attain mastery of the curriculum. Students who cheat or misrepresent another person’s work as their own will receive a zero for the task, and depending on the circumstances, may also receive a failing grade for the marking period.
C. PREPAREDNESS FOR CLASS
Students are considered fully prepared for class when they
(1) are on time before the late bell rings,
(2) are dressed in accordance with the uniform policy,
(3) and have homework assignments completed and ready for submission and critique.Additionally, I expect that we all respect our classroom by refraining from eating and drinking during class, are respectful of each other’s differences and opinions, and encourage one another to take academic risks.
V. Teacher Availability
Please feel free to confer with me to schedule a tutoring session before or after school.
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