English 11

American Literature

Sharon Klein – Instructor

2020-2021 School Year

Objectives of the Course:

1. Students will be reading the non-fiction writings of American authors from the early Native American writings to modern-day literature. The readings will coincide with the events of an era being studied in American History. For example, the study of “The Gettysburg Address” will be read during the study of the Civil War.
2. Students will read classroom novels written by American authors and delve into the novel’s characteristics of plot – setting – characterization – motivation – conflicts.
3. Students will read short fiction stories written by American authors and discuss the plot structure of the short story – plot – setting – characterization – motivation – conflicts.
4. Students will write responses to a weekly Article of the Week. The articles discuss current events happening in the world. The assignment incorporates the MLA (Modern Language Association) writing documentation and format.
5. Students will respond to provided Writing Journal prompts on Monday/Wednesday/Friday. The objective is to have students write and become familiar with their writing voice.
6. Students will participate in SSR (Silent Sustained Reading) at the beginning of the class during the assigned week. Students will be responsible for finding the reading material.

Class Expectations

• Students will arrive to class on time.
• Students will place their cell phone either in the phone charging unit or the bag provided. Phones will be retrieved at the end of the hour.
• Students will complete the bell ringer if one is provided for the day.
• Students will be prepared with necessary supplies and textbook for the class.
• Students will be expected to engage in the class discussions.
• Students will be respectful of other’s ideas and responses.
• Student will remain at their table until the bell rings.

Grading

Grading follows the Grant County grading scale.

Grades are weighted according to the assignment:

• Tests – 40 percent of grade
• Articles of the Week reflection – 20 percent of grade
• Writing Journal responses – 20 percent of grade
• Daily Work – 20 percent of grade

Late Work

Daily work is due on the assigned due date. Late work will not receive higher than a C for a grade. Students will be provided with time in class and can expect homework for the class.

Make-up Work

Students are responsible for making up work prior to their absence when they know they will be gone. Student who are ill will be given the two days per day absent to complete the assigned work. It is the student’s responsibility to gather the work when absent due to illness.

Technology

 Students will be told the day before class if a computer/iPad will be needed for class. If a notice has not been provided to bring a computer to class – do not bring one.

Academic Dishonesty (Plagiarism)

 Students who engage in academic dishonesty will receive a 0 on the assignment. The building principal and parents/guardians of the student will be notified.

Collaborative Norms in the Classroom

• Equity of Voice
• Active Listening
• Confidentiality
• Safety to share perspectives
• Presume positive intent
• Respectful use of electronics
• Following of GCHS Student Handbook policies
• Hall pass is on desk

Live Meeting Norms for Distancing Learning

• Turn video camera on throughout class – not having video on will be considered an absence
• Mute microphone when not in use
• Use the Chat box for questions or raise hand
• Be on time
• Be yourself
• Dress appropriately
• Sit at a desk, table etc.
• Place the laptop on a surface that will elevate it so you are in the screen at the proper level.

 Covid-19 classroom protocol

• Students may wear a mask for protection from COVID-19
• Students will sit in the same place every day for class.
• Students will place name on the COVID-19 survival box and box remains in room. School items are not to be shared.
• Students will sanitize hands upon entrance into the classroom.
• Students will sanitize the computer when it is opened and before it is closed.
• Students will return computers to cart while social distancing.
• Students will wash hands after returning cart or before dismissal of class while social distancing.
• Tables and chairs will be cleaned before the start of class and at the end of class using supplies that have been provided.
• Gloves will be provided if needed for an activity.