Units:
This year, we will be covering the following units: The Strategic Writer,
Science Fiction and Fantasy, Tragedy, and Epics.
At the beginning of the school year, we will spend time reviewing the writing
process and the 6 + 1 Traits of Writing. We will study elements of persuasive
writing for The Strategic Writer unit. Persuasive writing will be required in
all of our quarterly units. In addition to literature and writing objectives,
we will also focus on the language strand (grammar and mechanics) as well as
vocabulary development.
Grading:
35% = Tests/Quizzes (includes Vocabulary tests and Quarterly Assessments)
30% = Writing/Projects
10% = Classwork/Class Participation
10% = Homework
10% = Warm-up Journal
5% = Vocabulary
Homework:
There will be homework on a regular basis. Homework will come in various
forms, and may include a writing assignment, language assignment, reading
assignment, note taking, studying, or working on a project. TURN YOUR
HOMEWORK IN ON TIME: LATENESS WILL AFFECT YOUR GRADE!! Below is a summary of
my homework policy:
Completion Grade:
On time & complete= 100%
1 class period late=75%
2 or more class periods late=0%
Accuracy Grade:
On time & Complete= Earned % Grade
1 class period late: Earned % Grade - 25%
2 or more class periods late= 0%
Class Participation:
Discussion, debate, and peer interaction are important components of a
productive learning community. For this reason, you will earn class
participation points every two weeks. Class participation does not only
require raising your hand to make a comment or to answer a question. IT ALSO
INCLUDES BEING PREPARED FOR CLASS, ACTIVELY WORKING WHEN INDEPENDENT STUDY OR
GROUP WORK IS REQURED, RESPECTING OTHER STUDENTS’ POINTS OF VIEW, AND BEING
MINDFUL OF CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS.
Writing Policy:
ALL FINAL DRAFTS must be either typed OR written in blue or black ink. If you
choose to type your paper, it must be typed in Times New Roman with 12 pt.
font. The writing must also be double-spaced. 25% of points will be
automatically deducted for final drafts that do not follow this format.
Additionally, when working on a writing project, students should SAVE ALL
DRAFTS AND REVISIONS of his or her writing. DO NOT THROW ANY DRAFT AWAY
unless directed otherwise. When the final draft of a writing project is
completed, all drafts and revisions will submitted together.
Absences and Make-up Work:
It is YOUR responsibility to make up any work you miss due to absence or any
other reason. I post the homework for each class on the chalkboard as well as
on my TeacherWeb website. You can check the homework webpage using this web
address:
http://teacherweb.com/MD/EllicottMillsMs/MsHuck/
On this website, you will find helpful links and other information about my
class. The webpage will be updated on a daily basis.
It is YOUR responsibility to check for homework and to turn in the work within
one week of your absence. Please refrain from asking the teacher first for
assignments or classwork. Always check with a classmate or on the webpage
before asking the teacher. Any papers that were handed out during your
absence will be in a bin marked “Absent or Missed Assignments” and labeled
with your name.
Gradesheets:
Up-to-date gradesheets will be given to students every two or three weeks.
The signed gradesheet is due at the beginning of the next class period.
Signed gradesheets will count toward your homework grade.
Supplies:
For this class, you will need the following items EVERYDAY:
➢ Three-ring binder filled with college-ruled paper (This is where you will
you’re your homework, assignments, handouts, etc.)
➢ Five subject dividers with labels (to put in binder)
➢ Pencils AND Blue/Black pens
➢ Corrector Pen (Color other than blue/black)
➢ Composition Notebook (This will be your warm-up journal which I will collect
and grade each quarter.)
You will need the following items for this class on various occasions
throughout the year. You will be notified one class period in advance for
when you will need them in class. These items may remain in your locker until
they are needed:
➢ Highlighters
➢ Post-it notes
➢ 3X5 index cards
**Students should ALWAYS, ALWAYS, ALWAYS bring their three-ring binder (filled
with paper) and their composition notebooks to class. If you run out of
paper, make sure you replenish your binder with new paper. We will be using
these two items everyday!
**Students should also bring pencils and paper to class EVERYDAY!! We will be
using these items everyday! A consistent failure to bring these items each
day will result in a phone-call to parents/guardians and/or disciplinary action.
NOTE: FOR ORGANIZATIONAL PURPOSES, YOU SHOULD DIVIDE YOUR ENGLISH BINDER INTO
THE FOLLOWING SECTIONS:
1. Literature (handouts, short stories, etc.)
2. Vocabulary
3. Grammar
4. Writing
5. Class Notes
6. Miscellaneous
IF YOU DO NOT CHOOSE TO HAVE A SEPARATE ENGLISH BINDER, YOU MUST STILL HAVE A
SECTION IN YOUR REGULAR BINDER (WITH ALL THE SAME DIVISIONS LISTED ABOVE) FOR
ENGLISH CLASS.
Expectations and Tips for My Class:
1. Come to class on time, prepared, and ready to work.
2. Begin class by:
a. Taking your assigned seat
b. Getting out the materials you will need for the day
c. Reviewing the objectives and the daily agenda
d. Completing the warm-up that will be written on the board/overhead
3. Raise your hand to speak unless otherwise directed.
4. Follow directions the FIRST time they are given.
5. Stay in your seat unless you have permission to move around the room.
6. Leave ONLY when dismissed by the teacher.
7. Complete homework assignments and submit on time.
8. Respect every person and his or her property.
9. Always ask for clarification when you do not understand.
Do you need to make-up a quiz/test or need some extra help?
I will be available to students who want to come in for extra help or to
make-up a quiz/test. Please make an appointment with me ahead of time. I am
available before school, during PLUS on WEDNESDAY, and after school. If you
are staying after regular school hours to see me, then I will need a
permission note from a parent.
Contact:
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. I can be
reached at school at 410-313-2839 or at kelly_huck@hcpss.org.
