Wednesday September 5: welcome

You should check the blog daily, where you will find class assignments, notes, links and even scavenger hunts for bonus points. In most cases I am also able to include copies of any material I hand out in class. As well, this is where you look when you have been absent. Finally, this is my nagging board.

IMPORTANT: If you loose a hand-out or are absent, this is where you look to find copies. I seldom have extras. Regarding absences: unless you have a legal absence, that is your absence is recorded in the office, any assignment is due that day.Note that if you are not in class for an anticipated absence, such as music jury, play performance or college visit, any assignment that is due that day is still due.  Late material is 10 points off each day, afterwhich you may turn it in for a paltry 50 points.

My mantra is CHECK THE BLOG

Below is a copy of the criteria sheet handed out in class.

Course Criteria Sheet English III Honors                                  

Both the student and parent / guardian should sign the bottom of the sheet.    Please retain the top information.                      This is due Friday,  Sept 7 for a classroom homework grade.

*Contact information: Mrs. Parker’s telephone: 242-1760; please leave a message and I’ll ring you back

within 24 hours; e-mail: Dolly.Parker@rcsdk12.org ; mail box location: first floor, behind the reception desk.

*Class blog: Daily class work and homework is available through the class blog: http://english3honors12-13.blogspot.com

       This is your go-to site for daily information for reading materials, assignments, upcoming quizzes and tests. Students should check the blog daily.

*Parent Connect: The system is designed to improve communication between school and home to support student achievement. Through this secure online system, you will be able to check your child’s academic progress from any computer, any time. Registration is through the RCSD website: http://www.rcsdk12.org

 Note: As per school policy, no phones, electronic equipment or food is permitted in the classroom.

  Communication is the foundation to our humanity.  The English language arts curriculum strives to make all students successful by the practice of those reading, writing and oral skills that promote proficiency. Our goal is their practical application to whatever further educational path the student chooses. This is accomplished through reading a variety of literature, including novels, short stories, plays and non-fiction essays.  Moreover, students will apply critical thinking and analytical skills through oral and written work. These will be augmented by vocabulary and grammar work. Upon the successful completion of the course, the student will receive one graduation credit.  In addition, English III Honors students will be taking the English Language Arts Regents in January.

Needed Classroom Materials:

1 folder or section of a notebook specifically designated for English work.

Loose leaf paper
Pens / pencils
Thumb drive  This is for computer work and presentations.  
Expectations: Though important in all academic settings, due to the nature of the course, it is essential that we build an atmosphere of trust and cooperation.  As various viewpoints are expressed, it is the expectation that the discussion remain mature, civil and respectful at all times. On this point, there is no flexibility. 
Respect for Self – Be on time, prepared and ready to learn. (Academic success corresponds to attendance; the class follows the school and district policies.)
Respect for Others – Assist others’ learning, do nothing that interferes with learning.
Respect for Property – Treat the room and its contents with care.
Grading:  Writing 30%, Projects 20%, Vocabulary and Grammar 20%, Class Participation 20%, Homework 10%.
 Please note that summer reading is 20% of the first marking period’s grade.
Late work policy: Students have ten days to make up material with no penalty for legally excused absences.  Otherwise, ten points per day is deducted from the assignment.

SUMMER READING ASSESSMENT NEXT MONDAY AND TUESDAY IN CLASS!
Juniors were required to read Octavia Butler's Kindred.  The assessment will consist of a critical lens, whereby you will paraphrase the quote (remember that when you paraphrase, you do not use the same words) and decide how the quote is applicable (NEVER SAY IT IS AGREEABLE) to two texts,  through particular literary elements (theme, plot, character, tone, setting, point of view). The texts you will use are Kindred and one other of your choice. Make sure you reference the genre: ie. Butler's science fiction novel. If you have not read the assigned novel, you should choose two texts you have read. However, the highest grade you may receive is a 70.  Please be mindful that this is 20% of the first marking period's grade.

CLASSWORK / homework.....please post on the blog. Make sure to identify the assignment by your first name. If for some reason you cannot blog this, send it to me and I'll post it.  Due by 5th period tomorrow (Thursday)   No HARD COPIES, PLEASE.

6 Word Autobiography

Tell the story of your life in just 6 words. That's right, just six little words--no more, no less. And no fair making up words-that-don’t-exist-normally-as-hyphenated-words so as not to exceed the limit!
examples:  Worries too much, lives too little.
                   It has been fun so far.
                   breath, growth, wonder, anger, sorrow, hope

For Thursday 6 September: register on the blog
For Friday 7 SEPTEMBER: (1) make sure you are signed on as a follower to this site.