SACHEM EAST English Department

English 9 Honors: Mr. Patten

English Contract

Dear Students and Parents/Guardians:

Welcome to the wonderful world of English! The following is the contract set up for the students
in my English class. This contract contains the policy concerning homework, the responsibilities
of students and a brief description of the course to ensure both a smooth transition into high
school as well as a successful school year. Please read it carefully and sign the bottom portion
with your son or daughter indicating that you have seen and read the policy. Please do not
hesitate to call me at the main office 716-8200 if you have any questions.
Homework is an integral part of this course. It reinforces what has been taught in class and
allows students to finish work that cannot be completed in a class period. Homework is given an
average of three to four times a week. Writing assignments may be given over an extended
period of time. When reading is assigned, students are expected to take notes. Students are
encouraged to review notes on a daily basis. Homework needs to be done neatly, carefully and
completely. Assignments should be legible to both the student and the teacher.
Homework assignments may count up to 20% of each quarters grade. Students missing more
than half of all homework assignments throughout year will be in danger of failing the course.
Homework must be made up promptly if a student is absent from class. Students should have
the phone number of a classmate in the event that an assignment is missed. Students absent for
an extended period of time should call the main office. The appropriate assignments will be
passed on to the Guidance Department and can be picked up there.
Becoming a responsible young adult is equally important for the successful completion of this
class, as well as for the future of the student and the students contributions to the community.
It is the students responsibility to:
a)
Approach the teacher (either before or after class) to find out what class
work,
homework, test, and/or quiz needs to be made up in the event of an absence.
b)
Follow the rules and regulations outlined in the student handbook.
c)
Be in class when the bell rings. Lateness will be recorded
d)
Not ask the teacher about their grades during class time, only before or after
class.
e)
Notebooks and a writing utensil are required everyday in class. Unprepared
students will receive an automatic ZERO for participation grade. No exceptions!
In order for students to be prepared for class, the following school supplies are needed.
1. Pencil or Pen (blue or black ink)
2. Notebook You can decide on your own what type of notebook works for you.
Some students like the three ring binder and others prefer a more traditional style;
either works for me, but I expect you to have your notebook with you everyday. If you
choose a traditional notebook (this was my favorite) I recommend a three-subject,
college ruled. Its durable and will provide enough paper for the duration of the year.
3. Folder There are a decent amount of handouts and this will keep you to stay organized.
This course will be an introduction to language and literature. It is designed to develop
fundamental skills such as grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, and thinking. In addition, the
course covers different major literary genres such as drama, essays, novels, poetry, and short
stories. Films will be used to supplement discussion of content. Further, the course will review
and prepare students for the English Regents Examination while adhering to the Common Core
standards.

Please sign the portion below with your son/daughter indicating that you have read the policy.
Please return the entire contract to me and I will provide your child a copy of the signed
document. Your son/daughter should return this contact to me no later then this Thursday
September 8th 2016.
Once again, please do not hesitate to call me at the main office 716-8200 if you have any
questions. Please leave a message and I will get back to you as soon as possible. Hope to see
you on Open School Night.
Thank You,
Mr. Patten
Lpatten@sachem.edu

I have read and understand the homework policy and student responsibilities.
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Student Name (Please Print)
________________________________________
Student Signature
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Parent/Guardian Signature

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Date
________________
Date

Phone Number where parent/guardian can be reached during school hours (7am-3pm):
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