English IV - English Literature and
Composition Course
Ms. Yoder
2007-2008
Welcome Class of ’08 to
Senior English, the last literature course in your secondary education and a
preparatory course for your post-secondary studies.
The following grading policy
and class guidelines will assist you in having a successful school year. As this is a literature and composition
class, the course work does involve a large selection of reading and several
written compositions throughout the year.
Through our studies of the classic works in literature, you will grow as
a critical reader and writer and further appreciate the richness and beauty of
our language. All the selections we read
are considered Great Works of Literature, which means these works have made it
into the literary “hall of fame” and have stood the test of time. They are studied universally for their
important ideas and themes and remain relevant and instructive. Therefore, everything we touch literarily in
English IV is worthwhile and beneficial to everyone.
The curriculum and objectives
for this course follow the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills 110.45, English
IV (One Credit). You can find a listing
of this information at the following Texas Education Agency website:
http://www.tea.state.tx.us/rules/tac/chapter110/index.html
You can also access this
course’s syllabus, lesson plans, class rules, grading policy, and other helpful
links on my website: www.springhill.esc7.net/teacher_pages/hsweb/
Please read the following
information carefully and understand that I will be consistent in applying
these criteria throughout the year.
1. Six weeks grading system – As
you are aware, we have 6 six weeks grading periods. This means you have a limited amount of time
to improve poor grades or those grades that are less than your best. Therefore, you should maintain a responsible
approach by turning in all assignments on time, not procrastinating in your
study habits, and planning ahead for upcoming projects.
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Assignments: All assignments are aligned with the TEKS
for English IV |
Weight of assignments |
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Major Tests and Projects |
200 points or more as announced in advance |
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Formal Essays/Major papers |
A minimum of 300 points and
a maximum of 800 points. These weights
will be announced when paper is assigned |
|
Timed writings (in-class
writing) |
100-200 points |
|
Daily grades: vocabulary,
reading 100 points quizzes, daily activities |
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|
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2. Preparation for class – Everyday, bring to class your novel or assigned book,
black or blue pens, paper, spiral journal, English notebook, and
highlighters. Please bring your own
supplies to class, or it will be an unexcused tardy to retrieve these from your
locker. It looks rather “pathetic” for
seniors to whimper throughout the class asking for supplies from their peers.
3. Alertness is Key – Be sure you
are seated when the tardy bell rings, and you record homework assignments from
the board on your class calendar or day timer.
I will not remind you to do this as you are upperclassmen and capable of
this simple discipline. Bring a positive
attitude and a willingness to participate constructively since discussion and
interaction are vital to the learning process.
4. Tutorials are offered – Our
school has scheduled before and after school tutorial time for students who
need assistance or opportunity to make up missed tests. I will be in my classroom during these times,
so please take advantage of this opportunity.
Morning tutorials begin at
5. Absences – If you must be
absent, the next morning check the homework calendar to copy the missed
assignment and deadline. Consult another
student’s notes, if we took notes on the
day of
your absence. According to school
policy, you have two consecutive days to make up work for each day of an
excused absence. If you are absent on
the day of a scheduled test, then you will be tested
immediately upon returning to the class.
6. Progress Reports – These reports
are mailed every three weeks for students whose major average is 75 or
below. If you do receive a report, you
must have this signed by a parent and returned to the school office. Remember, you cannot legitimately claim you
didn’t know your average since you have a grade sheet on which to record your
current grades.
If your parents would like to have a conference with
me, they may call the school office at (903) 323-7738. I anticipate an incredible year together and
many wonderful learning experiences as we explore the great works of
literature.
Students and parents please read and sign below. After I check these signatures, you are to
keep this information sheet in your notebook for future reference.
I have read and understand the grading policy and
course requirements:
Student ___________________________________________ Date _____________
Parent/guardian:
_________________________________________ Date
_____________
Remember, at this level of your education, you are responsible for learning the materials and concepts. I am responsible for effectively instructing and providing opportunities for you to master the materials and concepts.