Course description
The English Language Arts are about how we understand and connect with ourselves, others, and our world. It is a place where a student works on thought and expression.
This course is designed to further acquaint students with the rigors of College Prep expectations and give them the opportunity to hone the tools and skills necessary for success in this environment and beyond.
The overall theme of 11th Grade English is an exploration of what we as Americans call “The American Dream” and what the implications of our understanding of this concept are.
The class is organized around units constructed upon a foundation piece of literature and is augmented by supplementary essays, short stories, poetry, and other media. Class time will also be focused on direct writing instruction, vocabulary building, and critical thinking exercises.
The California Content Standards for English Language Arts will provide a basic framework for instruction.
Classroom Expectations
Atmosphere:
Learning is best done in a safe atmosphere built on trust and respect. To this end, there will be a strict adherence to all school policies. I will tolerate no disruptions of this atmosphere.
Responsibility and Organization:
Organization is a major factor leading to success in a College Prep environment. At all times, students are expected to have direct access to the materials they need to succeed. Students are also expected to take responsibility for their successes and failures and are expected to problem solve before making excuses. This includes dealing with the ramifications of missed classes, lost materials, and personal issues.
All assignments have a due date. Due dates are final except in extraordinary circumstances or when a prior arrangement has been made.
Grading
Grading is done on a point system. Each assignment is part of a larger category that it weighted accordingly in factoring a student’s overall grade.
Category |
Weighting |
Letter Grades |
Final Unit Projects (essays, tests, presentations, projects) |
40% |
A: |
90% & above |
Writing Assignments |
25% |
B: |
80% & above |
Vocabulary Development |
10% |
C: |
70% & above |
Daily assignments (including homework) |
10% |
D: |
60%& above |
Classroom participation |
5% |
F: |
below 60% |
| SSR participation |
5% |
|
|
| End of Semester Exams |
5% |
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Possible Core Texts Used in the Class (this list is not exhaustive and is subject to additions. Not all texts on this list may be used):
Catcher in the Rye
Red Badge of Courage
Oh Pioneers
The Crucible
The Great Gatsby
Our Town
Death of a Salesman
Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglas
The Autobiography of Malcolm X
On the Road
The Monkey Wrench Gang
As noted before, all core texts will be supplemented by works of non-fiction, short stories, poetry, critical essays, and other media. |
