English II Syllabus (2012-2013)

Instructor: Mrs. E. Rebekah Wallace Room: 702 Course Number: 1001350 Course Credit: 1

Objective: The purpose of English 2 is to increase students knowledge of the different styles of writing, to develop vocabulary, and to improve reading comprehension. Topics to be covered include English grammar, writing, and various forms of literature (short stories, plays, non-fiction, poetry, and novels). Students will also explore the literary devices, figurative language, and symbolism that authors employ. In addition, students will be expected to write a persuasive research paper. Daily writing will be a major focus of this course. This will include vocabulary activities, writing prompts, and note taking skills. Materials: Each student will be expected to bring the following to class EACH DAY: Composition book or notebook for journals, daily language builders, and other writing prompts. These will be left in the classroom in a designated area. 3 ring binder with pockets and loose-leaf paper or notebook and pocket folder Paper is for note taking and for in-class assignments. The binder/folder is to collect and store homework, class work, and returned papers. You need to keep track of ALL written work, worksheets, and quizzes Pens with blue or black ink only. (I use other colors for grading.) FLASH DRIVE/JUMP DRIVE recommended How Grades are Weighted: Class work and homework: Participation: Tests/Projects: Quizzes: Midterm/Final Exam Q1 &Q3 40% 10% 30% 20% Q2 & Q4 30% 10% 30% 20% Grading Scale: A= 90-100 B= 80-89 C= 70-79 D= 60-69 F= 0-59

90% +10% Total of Qtr 2 & 4 = 100% =100% Students and parents may access grades online through the Esembler website at https://grades.pasco.k12.fl.us

Definitions: Class work/ Homework: Includes completing daily assignments, journals, daily oral language, reading response logs, in-class assignmentsetc. Participation: Includes contributing to class discussion, group work, role-playing, reading aloud, proper behavior, adherence to rules, and ATTENDANCE. Tests/Projects: All tests will be announced in advance. There will be some form of review prior to each test. Projects include standard and alternative book reports, oral and visual presentations, and extended writing assignments. Quizzes: Topics include vocabulary; lesson reviews, reading assignments, and other material covered during class lecture or discussion. Quizzes may not be announced, so students need to be attentive and take notes when necessary. Research Paper: Students will write a persuasive research paper. This paper will be graded on multiple criteria, including formatting, mechanics, organization & development, and content. Students will also give an oral presentation of their findings and create a corresponding visual presentation. This is a major paper and will count as 3 test grades. Detailed instructions concerning this assignment will be forthcoming.

English II Syllabus (2012-2013)

All work is expected to be turned in on time. Late work will be penalized one letter grade/several points per day late. No late work will be accepted after 3 days. Contact and Conferences: I can be contacted for questions, comments, and/or concerns of either the parents or students. The best time to reach me is via email: erwallac@pasco.k12.fl.us . I can be reached by phone between 7:10-7:30 am or between 2:00-2:40pm, Monday-Friday. If these times are inconvenient, a message may be left with the front office, and I will return the call as soon as possible. A conference may be set up with all of a students teachers by making arrangements with the front office. The main telephone numbers are (352) 524-5500. Classroom Policy:

1. Treat teachers and peers with respect. 2. Come to class on time. The school tardy policy will be followed at all times. Speak in appropriate tones, and use appropriate language. 3. Only one student may be out of the room at one time. 4. Students will remain in their seats, unless warranted by a designated classroom activity. 5. Cell phones, pagers, and other electronic devices must be turned off and out of sight. 6. Keep the classroom clean. All classroom materials must be put away, and the classroom and its surrounding areas must be clean BEFORE students will be dismissed. NO LINING UP AT THE DOOR!
Tardy Policy: Class will begin on time. The door will shut when the period begins. If the door is shut, you are tardy. Go directly to the Tardy Desk in the Office. You have 5 minutes after the bell to return with a pass, or you will be considered skipping. No pass, No class Absences: Only a student with an excused absence will be permitted to make up any missed assignments. If a student with an excused absence misses a test or quiz, the student must see me the day that he/she returns to make arrangement to take a make up test. A student without an excused absence will receive ZEROES for any missed work. Consult the student handbook section of your planner for valid reasons for excused absences. It is the students responsibility to schedule any missed tests, quizzes, or make-up work. Students have 2 days to make up any missed work. Parents/Students have 2 days to submit an excuse note. Failure to submit this note during this time frame will result in a grade of ZERO for all missed work.

English II Syllabus (2012-2013)

Extra Credit: Students will have the opportunity to complete additional assignments for extra credit at various times during the school year. Reading Schedule: The following is a tentative schedule of major readings/units. This is subject to changes and substitutions. Semester I: Short Stories Oedipus the King Antigone Sophocles Fairy Tale research project Night ~ Elie Weisel Semester II: Short Stories Animal Farm- George Orwell Julius Caesar ~ William Shakespeare Persuasive Research Paper Poetry Unit

Student: My signature indicates that I have read and have understood Mrs. Wallaces guidelines and expectations for English 2. I may or may not agree with these guidelines; however I will abide by them. I will do my best to adhere to any and all requirements. Students: _________________________________________Date: _____________________ Print Name: _____________________________________________Period: _____________ Parent: I have read and have understood the course syllabus and will do my best to help my son/daughter to adhere to any and all requirements: Parent Signature: _______________________________________Date: ___________________ Print Name: ____________________________________________________________________ Contact Number where parent can be reached: ( ) ________________________________

Please sign and return to Mrs. Wallace

Contact email: __________________________________________________________________