LA1/Pre-IB (9th Grade Pre-IB Language Arts) (Period 2)

*Literature selections subject to change – and this is not the order we will necessarily be reading in.

** Literature selections that are in bold are suggested that students purchase their own copy of the text, in order to fulfill their annotation assignments. Students who opt not to purchase the book, can check out a copy from the school, but will be required to annotate on self-provided Post-It Notes.

1. WRITING: The composition in this course will include:

1. LISTENING AND SPEAKING

Students will study and prepare for the S.A.T. and college through the daily study of Greek and Latin roots (Vocabulary Standard 1.3).  Cumulative tests will be given every 2-3 weeks. 

STUDENT EXPECATATIONS

We will analyze diverse works of world literature, focusing on literary devices, criticism, and conventions as we relate themes of literature to our lives and society.

We will demonstrate the ability to think critically in preparation for college and the world of work through writing, discussions, cooperative learning, internet research, and presentations.

Students are expected to adhere to all school policies and procedures, which will be strictly enforced.  Classroom rules are designed to create a positive learning environment for all students. 

Materials: Students are required to bring the following materials with them to class on a daily basis. 

• 3-ring binder with a section for Language Arts
• Lined notebook paper (College-Ruled – the kind that is easily ripped out)
• Two black or blue pens and two pencils
• Current reading selection (when appropriate)
• Highlighters (multiple colors – 5 recommended) or Post-It Notes [for annotation]
• Computer/Printer/Internet access

CLASSWORK & HOMEWORK POLICY

1. All assignments must be in black or blue ink and neat, legible, and clean. Assignments must also include the proper MLA heading in the upper left-hand corner:

Student (Student’s full name)

Ms. Filowitz (Teacher’s name)

Language Arts 1 (Pre-IB) Period # (Class and Period)

2 September 2011 (Date)

*NOTE: THIS FORMAT MUST BE FOLLOWED EXACTLY! Use the sheet I give you for reference.

2. VHS plagiarism policy will be strictly enforced (see Student Handbook).

3. Make-up work can be submitted upon student’s return to school. Late work will be accepted within the parameters specified by the teacher per each assignment, and only for partial credit. Students who are absent must be proactive about obtaining the work they have missed – ideally, checking the class website prior to returning to class.  Students who feel they have extenuating circumstances (extended illness, illness/death of a family member, etc.)  are encouraged to see me before the assignment is due – I am often able to accommodate requests, as long as they are not presented last-minute.  Students who will be missing school due to school business/field trips and were told due dates for assignments MUST TURN in assignments the day they are due to receive full credit – this can be done via email, turning in work before school, or giving work to a friend who will be in class to turn in for you.  All assignments are due at the very beginning of class.

*NOTE: Assignments emailed to Ms. Filowitz AFTER the period in which the assignment is due, will be considered LATE.

*NOTE: If students are having printing issues, they should email me the final copy of their work. As long I receive an email, the assignment is still considered on-time. Students will still need to print out a hard copy of their assignment and can do so using the school library if their home printer is not working.

4. Students should daily homework. There will be some weekend and/or long-range assignments, but these will be limited and students will be given ample notice.

*NOTE: See  “The Do’s and Don’ts of Ms. Filowitz’s Class” for more in-depth classroom policies.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

VHS attendance policy will be strictly enforced.  In addition, the fourth tardy or truancy will result in detention.  Also, if you are absent, it is your responsibility to check the class website BEFORE you come back to class – daily schedules and links to assignments are posted in advance, so that you will not fall behind. 

GRADING POLICY

Most assignments will be assigned a point value.  At the end of the quarter/semester, students will be assigned grades based on the percentage of the total points that they earn in each category.  The students’ grades for Language Arts will be weighted according to the following categories:

                                  Classwork/Homework: 20%

Writing: 30%

Tests/Quizzes:  35%

Participation: 5%

Final Exam: 10%

Students should know in advance that opportunities for extra credit points are rare, if any.  Students, however, can and should check their academic progress regularly online. It is the student’s responsibility to periodically check their grade. Also, because of the large size of the class, students must actively pursue participation points (however all students will be given an equal opportunities to obtain points).