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 introduce students to the rigors of College Prep expectations and give them the tools and skills necessary for success in this environment and beyond.
The overall theme of 9th Grade English is an exploration of what it means to be a hero 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.
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Assignment Categories |
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Letter Grades |
| Final Unit Projects (essays, tests, presentations, projects) |
40% |
A: 90-100%
B: 80-89%
C: 70-79%
D: 60-69%
F: below 60% |
| Writing Assignments |
25% |
| Vocabulary Development |
10% |
| Daily Assignments (including homework) |
10% |
| Classroom Participation |
5% |
| SSR Participation |
5% |
| End of Semester Exams |
5% |
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):
Mythology Edith Hamilton
The Odyssey by Homer
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
The Giver by Lois Lowry
Shane by Jack Schaefer
Siddhartha by Hermann Hesse
Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
As noted before, all core texts will be supplemented by works of non-fiction, short stories, poetry, critical essays, and other media.
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