Mrs. Steffens

Goals
The student who satisfactorily completes the requirements of this course will:

• Be able to speak and write using standard American English and correct punctuation
• Broaden his/her vocabulary through Greek and Roman roots and context clues
• Gain proficiency in public speaking
• Research sources and use references in writing papers
• Be able to identify literary devices and other elements of creative writing
• write in response to literature
• Know about Shakespeare, his times, and his writing

Class Materials

• Primary Textbook - Prentice Hall Literature Penguin Edition
• Vocabulary from Classical Roots by Norma Fifer and Nancy Flowers
• Notebook or section in notebook, college rule paper
• Folder or binder for class handouts and homework
• Folder with loose-leaf paper from writing prompts and journals (provided by the teacher)
• Pens - at least one in blue or black ink, and a pencil. Red or neon colors are not acceptable for homework
• The Pearl by John Steinbeck
• Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare
• Short Stories by O. Henry
• 100 Best-Loved Poems edited by Philip Smith
• Novel chosen from individual reading list

All textbooks and literature (except for the individual novel) are provided by the school.
Textbooks must be covered with paper or cloth covers. No sticky covers.

Evaluation
Your final grade for this course will be based on points accumulated from:

• Quizzes
• Homework
• Writing prompts, journals and grammar warm-ups
• Presentations
• Projects
• Unit and literature tests
• Semester exams (worth 20% of your semester grade)
• Extra credit will be offered periodically throughout each semester

Tests
You will always know well in advance about a test. If you missed one or more days prior to a test and are present the day of the test, I will assume that you are going to take the test unless you discuss your situation with me prior to the class period.

Late Work
All homework should be completed and turned in at the beginning of the class period on which it is due. Late homework will be accepted one day late for a reduction of 20% of the points possible. Homework two days late will be accepted for a reduction of 30% of the points possible. Homework will not be accepted more than two days late unless excused because of illness or other approved reason. Late major projects or papers will be accepted one day late for a reduction of 10% of the points, two days late for for a reduction of 25% of the points, or three days late for a reduction of 35% of the possible points.

Class Rules

• Be in your seat on time and prepared
• Follow directions the first time
• Respect others, yourself, and property
• No food, gum, or drink in class
• No cell phones should be seen or heard in class
• Cheating (including plagiarism) is not tolerated. Students are to do their own work for everything including homework, quizzes, tests, projects, and papers unless they are given permission to work with others. Cheating results in an automatic "F" for the assignment for all parties involved and further discipline as stated in the school's discipline policy

I expect all students to adhere to these rules and conduct themselves in a mature manner appropriate for a Christian classroom.

Additional Help
I want students to enjoy English and literature and am willing to spend extra time helping them. I encourage students to ask questions or to arrange a time outside of class to get help from me. I appreciate the support of family and parent/guardian interest in a student's studies and progress. Please call me at school if you have any concerns or comments about your child's work.