Class Expectations and Procedures

2013-2014

English Lang. Arts 9

Mrs. Schneider

5th & 6th Hours

Student Materials Needed

It is expected that students bring the following items to class EVERY DAY: A notebook. (3-ring binder with filler paper is preferred) A composition book Pencil or Blue/Black pen Folder with pockets (for portfolio) USB flash drive (optional)

Email: Christine.schneider@clawson.k12.mi.us Class website: www.SchneiderCHS.weebly.com

Class Overview
English 9 includes instruction in literature, grammar, speaking, listening and writing. The textbook exposes the student to a wide variety of authors and genres. Writing is stressed throughout the year as the student examines and practices different writing styles. Outside of the textbook, the student will read To Kill a Mockingbird. Lastly, the Accelerated Reader Program, a modern literature program, allows the student to read for pleasure while increasing comprehension.

Grading Scale
A = 93 100% A = 90 92% B + = 88 89% B = 83 87% B = 80 82% C + = 78 79% C = 73 77% C = 70 72% D + = 68 69% D = 63 67% D = 60 62% E = 0 59%

Class Participation
The student needs to come to class prepared every day. This means bringing the required text, and English binder or folder for papers, a composition notebook, a pencil or blue/black pen, and the homework. All submitted home/class work must be done in pencil or blue/black ink to receive full credit. Whole and small group discussions are a vital part of the class and the student needs to participate fully. Note taking is required. Homework is given for review and practice and may or may not be graded, depending on the circumstances.

Plagiarism or copying another students work is unacceptable and will result in a zero on the assignment and/or the semester course.

Evaluation
Assessments = 70% Tests, quizzes, projects, formal and informal papers, speeches and critical responses to the readings Assignments = 20% Daily bell ringers, class work, group work, homework Accelerated Reader Program = 10% A silent reading program with computerized comprehension assessment. Reader responses are part of the grade. Overall Semester Grades: 1st Semester MP 1 = 40% MP 2 = 40% Midterm = 20% 2nd Semester MP 3 = 40% MP 4 = 40% Final = 20%

Absent Work
If a student is absent on the day an assessment or assignment is due, the student should be prepared to take the assessment or turn in the assignment on the day he/she returns to class. It is the responsibility of the student to gather all materials missed on the day of his/her absence and submit the missed assignments within two days of the absence. Make-up work for unexcused absences is not available.

Summer Reading Accountability

Clawson High Schools English department believes that summer reading is an essential part of the learning process. Not only does it close the learning gap during the summer months, it also piques an interest in reading that high school students can thrive upon. The novel for Freshmen was Sleeping Freshmen Never Lie by David Lubar. Students will be tested on Thursday, September 12 on this novel. There will also be frequent references to the book throughout the semester and instances where students will have to compare what we are reading in class to what they read over the summer.

Personal Reading Time (PRT)

Included on selected days of the week will be student independent reading time. Students will be expected to bring in reading selections of their choice. Books and novels are strongly suggested, or otherwise approved reading materials are acceptable.

Bathroom/Hall Passes
Each student will receive 3 passes each marking period. Passes do not carry over and there is no way to earn more. Unused passes may be turned in at the end of the marking period for extra credit. When a student asks to use one of their passes, they need to turn in their pass and present their planner to be signed.

Assignments
Homework and classwork are a part of the students grade and are given on a regular but not daily basis. Classes are structured so that time is allowed for students to begin an assignment, ask questions, and clarify points. It is the students responsibility to come to class with his or her assignment completed as homework is collected upon entrance to the classroom. Tardies are given to the student who needs to go back to his or her locker for a forgotten assignment. Late work is NOT accepted. Occasionally, extra credit work is given to the class as a whole, but never to an individual student looking for a boost in his or her final grade.

No Electronics Allowed
This year there will be a Zero Use policy for electronic devices including cellphones, IPods, or similar devices at any point during the hour. If a student is found to be using any of these devices while in class, they will receive one warning. Any continued use after that will result in turning the device over to administration.

Test/Quiz Policy
It is expected that students know proper test-taking behavior. There should be no talking at any point while tests or quizzes are being administered. Students who do not follow this policy are subject to receiving a zero on the test/quiz. Any student who receives a grade of C or below will be required to take the test home and get a parent/guardian signature and return it to me the next day. Retakes: Students will be allowed a retake on tests only in this class. In order for a student to earn the option of a retake, the student must 1. Fill out a retake request form, 2. have all assignments completed, and 3. come in before or after school and review the material with me. When the student has successfully shown me they are ready for a retake, we will set up a time before or after school for them to retake the test. (Note: students may not retake quizzes, projects, midterms, or final exams.)

Behavioral Expectations
All Clawson High School rules and regulations listed in your student handbook will apply in this classroom. Proper behavior is essential to maintaining a quality learning environment. The student is expected to fully participate in class discussions and activities, start assignments in class when given, and remain seated until dismissed. Disrespect for other students, the environment or the teacher will not be tolerated.

No Food or Drink Allowed

except water bottles.

Website Resources
Be sure to check the class website for additional web resources for this class.

Availability/Extra Help
If a student finds they need extra help, they must schedule a time with me either before or after school. I will post sign-up sheets each week.

Page 2 of 3

English Language Arts 9 Syllabus

Mrs. Schneider 2013-2014

Please sign and date this page verifying that you have read the attached expectations, returning it to class Friday, September 6, 2013. By signing below, you are signifying that you have read the syllabus for English 9 with Mrs. Schneider. You are also stating that you understand and agree to follow the guidelines and expectations set forth in the syllabus.

Student Info:

Printed Name: ________________________ Cell Number: _________________________

Signature _____________________ Email _________________________

Parent/Guardian Info:

(1) Printed Name: ________________________ Cell Number: _________________________

Signature _____________________ Email _________________________

(2) Printed Name: ________________________ Cell Number: _________________________

Signature _____________________ Email _________________________

Please list any concerns I should know about prior to the start of the year: