Senior English – Literature and Language for the 21st Century

Download the Course Outline (MS Word)

Texts/Materials

• Literature Across the Cultures — Sheena Gillespie, Terezinha Fonseca, & Tony Pipolo, eds. 4^th ed.  New York:  Pearson Longman:  2005.
• Sadlier SAT Resources
• New York Times Website
• NPR Articles and Resources
• Literature Circle Trade Books/ Study packets & handouts

Supplies

• Notebook  (for the subject of English only)
• English Folder (for handouts)
• Black, blue, and red pens for school and home
• Yellow, pink, and orange highlighters for school and home
• Loose leaf (no spiral edges) Staples sells “loose” leaf paper.
• 3×5 and 5×8 Index cards

Course Description

This course examines the significance of language and literature for the 21st century citizen. During the year, each student will strive to answer the question, “Why are literature and literacy essential components of our society?”  Students explore both traditional and non-traditional texts from the United States, Great Britain, and other countries around the world. These texts will range from novels to essays, biographies to letters, and Internet writing, including blogs and articles. As part of the learning process, students complete varied types of writing tasks to strengthen analytical abilities and communication skills needed for 21st Century literacy proficiency.

Essential Questions

• How does language shape our understanding of society and culture?
• How does language influence the ways we think, act, and view the world?
• Is literature an accurate measure of life and culture?
• In what ways has writing remained constant over the years?  In what ways has it changed?  How do both the consistencies and changes help us to understand society?
• Why do authors choose specific genres and styles for different pieces of writing?
• What does it mean to be a global citizen?

Grading Policy

The student’s grade will be determined through the averaging of various assessment techniques including, tests, quizzes, essays, homework, project, class participation, and end of quarter assessments. All assignments are expected to be handed in on time. Points will be deducted for late assignments.  Grades will be posted on Grade Connect in a timely manner.

The system for grading is based on a point system. All assignments have a designated amount of points. The final grade is determined by dividing the number of points the student has earned by the total number of possible points. Please refer to the example below using a variety of assessments during a three week period.

Homework Policy

• Homework is to be copied from the smart board at the beginning of class after prayers.
• Homework will be graded using a Rubric enabling students to earn points by meeting all of the requirements of the assignment. Points will be deducted for lateness, incomplete work, careless work, lack of effort.
• Written homework will be checked every day.
• Homework is to be completed either in notebook or on loose leaf according to instructions on website and Smart board.
• Rubrics (if provided) are to be attached on top of the assignment with a stapler. This should be completed at home; it is part of the assignment.
• Homework is to be handed in at the beginning of the period in the designated cubby located in the front of the classroom.
• Homework will also be posted on my website at mrs-sullivan.com for parents to view and for those who are absent.
• Missing homework will result in deduction of points in both the homework grade and the class participation grade since the student will be unable to participate if homework has not been completed.
• A one-day only grace period will be permitted as a result of absenteeism due to illness or death in the family unless prior arrangements have been made with me.
• If a student comes to class without the completed homework assignment, he/she must hand in a sheet of loose leaf containing name, date, assignment name, class period, and reason for missing assignment.

Absence Policy

• If a student is absent from class, it is his/her responsibility to find out any material that he/she missed, including outlines, handouts, skills taught, etc.
• A student returning from an absence on the day of a previously announced test is expected to take the test on the date of return. Exceptions will only be made for extenuating circumstances (severe/extended illness, death in family).
• Students who miss a quiz or test on the day that it is administered in class will be expected to take it on the date of their return while in class. If a student had an extended absence or emergency, arrangements can be made to take the test at a later date. All tests must be made up by the time the graded test is returned to the class. In order to avoid failure, all tests administered in given quarter must be made up before the end of that quarter.

Extra Credit

• Extra Credit questions may sometimes appear on tests, and extra credit points can be earned during class games/competitions during review.
• Extra Credit work will not be given to pull up failing grades. This sends the message that a student does not have to take studying seriously from the outset.