English 10 Course Syllabus
Note to Parents: Click the link at the bottom and fill in the short form that designates that you have read and understand the syllabus below. Hard copies of the syllabus are available upon request.
Teacher
Mrs. Karla Erdman
Freedom High School
3149 Chester Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18020
work: (610) 867-5843
website: www.mrserdman.com
email: kerdman@basdschools.org (email is the fastest form of communication)
After school tutoring: By appointment
Supply List
8 1/2" x 11" spiral notebook
3-Ring Binder
5 Dividers [W.O.D.; Greek Roots/Vocabulary; Grammar; Units; Writing]
Loose Leaf Paper, pencils, and pens
Note: Please notify me if you have circumstances that prevent you from obtaining these supplies.
Objectives
The student will be able to:
The following texts are used in 10th grade English classes. We may or may not cover material in the following texts, novels, and plays. Furthermore, our novels may include other titles approved by the BASD. Any of the titles may be used in either the academic or honors curriculum.
1. Elements of Literature: Fourth Course (Holt Textbook and resources)
2. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
3. Night by Elie Wiesel
4. Othello by William Shakespeare
5. A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
6. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
7. Bleachers by John Grisham
8. A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks
9. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Honors Students:
Will also read an independent novel from an independent reading Book List/Project and possibly Oedipus.
Additional Resources
Grammar for Writing: Fifth Course
Reader’s Handbook: A Student Guide for Reading and Learning
Vocabulary Workshop: New Edition
Independent Novel Choices/Literature Circle Novel Choices
Power Library (on-line)
Units
Continuous learning throughout the semester/year will include the following areas of study.
1. Persuasive/Argument Essay; Literary Analysis Essay; Research Essay
2. Poetry, Short Fiction, Non-Fiction, Fiction (novels), and Drama
3. Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking (including oral and written)
4. Grammar and Vocabulary
5. Reading, Writing, and Study Skills to enhance performance on standardized tests
Assessments
Assessments (both formative and summative) include but are not limited to the following:
Essays, Research Paper, Quizzes, Tests, Homework, Projects, Oral Presentations, Writing, and Journaling, Peer Review, Self-evaluation, Group work, Class work, Class participation, Class discussions, and Reading.
Grading
10% Responsibility (includes but not limited to: being prepared for class, turning in assignments on time, submitting paperwork, etc.)
10% Homework (includes but not limited to: vocabulary packets, grammar assignments, pre-writing, outlines, etc.)
20% Class work (includes but not limited to: standardized testing practice packets, quizzes/formative assessments, short-term projects, etc.)
25% Tests/Major Assessments (includes but not limited to: vocabulary and grammar tests; unit assessments; long-term projects; summative assessments; etc.)
35% Writing Assessments (includes but not limited to: pre-writing, outlines, formal and informal writing assignments, etc.)
Homework
Homework and outside classroom assignments are an extension of the learning in class. It is imperative to the success of all students that homework and other assignments be completed and submitted on time. Thus, the following classroom rules outline the consequences for submitting and not submitting homework.
1. Grades are earned for completed homework assignments. Some assignments are scored for completeness, while others are scored for correctness. Grades will be labeled accordingly.
2. A zero (0) will be given for not submitting homework on time. No late homework assignments will be accepted.
3. Late writing and project assignments may be subject to one-letter-grade penalty per day.
4. Parents may access the Parent Portal for student progress reports at any time. Please review the information regarding the Parent Portal and receive a login and password from the SSC office or contact your child's teacher.
5. Grades are posted weekly on the Parent Portal for parents and students. Therefore, students are aware of progress on a weekly basis, as well as missing assignments.
Reminder: Students are responsible for all missed work upon returning to class. Since students are provided a calendar for all assignments and due dates, there are no excuses for late or missing work.
Field trips and Early Dismissal for Sports: Field trips and early dismissals, including but but not limited to band, orchestra, and choir trips and vacations, are NOT an excuse to miss homework, tests, or quizzes. Students attending field trips MUST get work in advance and turn in all missed work upon return. Tests and quizzes will either be completed prior to the field trip or immediately upon return. No extra time will be given due to field trips or early dismissals.
To obtain work for an illness please contact the teacher and/or the guidance counselor. Students are entitled to the same number of days for make-up as the number of days absent. This does NOT include a one-day absence prior to a test day that was previously announced.
If a test is missed for illness, the student will be required to stay after school to make up the assessment. If a test will be missed due to a school function, the student will arrange a time with the teacher to take the assessment; it is usually advised that the student take it either the day before the absence or the day after the absence.
Projects
During the course, students will be required to complete independent and group projects. Students will be given specific instructions for each project. Projects are expected on the due date. Late projects will be penalized as per the discretion of the teacher.
Expectations and Classroom Procedures
1. HOMEWORK: Homework is expected to be completed and submitted on time.
2. WRITING REQUIREMENTS: All students are required to turn in the major writing assignments [on-demand essay, persuasive/argument essay, research essay, AND literary analysis]. Failure to submit an essay for grading may result in a failing marking period grade and/or a failing course grade. Writing is an integral part of the English curriculum.
3. LEAVING CLASS: Students must sign out and have a pass/agenda book and their IDs to leave the classroom. It is assumed that students have their ID badges at all times, and they are to have them while walking in the hallways.
4. TARDINESS: Students must possess a pass/agenda book signed when tardy. Passes grant an excused tardy; otherwise, students will be assigned a teacher detention for tardiness. Three times of tardiness will result in an office referral. No warnings are given as students are expected to know and understand the rules.
5. INTERACTIONS: Put-downs, bullying, racist remarks, and profanity will NOT be tolerated.
6. PLAGIARISM: All work must be each student’s own work, unless specified as “group work.” (See Student Handbook for plagiarism and cheating). No warnings about plagiarism will be granted. Students may participate in a Plagiarism mini-project at the beginning of the semester. Regardless, all students are aware of plagiarism definitions and expectations.
7. MISSED WORK: Each student is responsible for missed work. “I didn’t know” is not an acceptable excuse. Quizzes and tests will only be made up after school or at the discretion of the teacher. All assignments are posted daily on the whiteboard and on class calendar. Students are also responsible for keeping assignment due dates up-to-date.
8. BOOKS: Students are to take care of their books. Missing or destroyed books must be paid for at the end of the semester/year; this includes books borrowed from the classroom library. School policy is that a student may not take the final exam if there are outstanding obligations.
9. SCHOOL RULES: School rules will be reinforced. No hats, cell phones, iPods, mp3 players, video games, etc. ID badges must be with the student at all times. Proper dress is expected. No eating or drinking during class. Gum is okay if it stays in the mouth or is disposed of properly. Students may have water as long as it is in a closed water bottle. There is a place in the classroom to store cell phones while in class. The classroom is a learning environment; therefore, the no cell phone policy will be in effect.
10. CLASS PARTICIPATION: Participation is expected as it enhances learning. All students will be expected to participate on a regular basis through the following: asking and answering questions; submitting homework, papers, and projects on time; reading and discussing literature. A participation grade may be given based on preparedness and absenteeism.
Teacher Detention
Detentions: After school 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (1/2 hour) [1st offense]
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (1 hour) [2nd offense]
Teacher detentions are assigned for non-compliance of classroom and school guidelines and routines. It is a consequence of the student’s actions or lack thereof.
Any student who does not attend an assigned teacher detention will be referred to the office. Please refer to the student handbook for further explanation.
Teacher
Mrs. Karla Erdman
Freedom High School
3149 Chester Avenue, Bethlehem, PA 18020
work: (610) 867-5843
website: www.mrserdman.com
email: kerdman@basdschools.org (email is the fastest form of communication)
After school tutoring: By appointment
Supply List
8 1/2" x 11" spiral notebook
3-Ring Binder
5 Dividers [W.O.D.; Greek Roots/Vocabulary; Grammar; Units; Writing]
Loose Leaf Paper, pencils, and pens
Note: Please notify me if you have circumstances that prevent you from obtaining these supplies.
Objectives
The student will be able to:
- recognize and analyze poetry and its devices through reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- identify themes, styles, and literary devices in short fiction, novels, and drama through discussion, reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- identify, describe, evaluate, and synthesize ideas in nonfiction text.
- expand vocabulary and grammar through the study of reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
- construct a persuasive essay, literary analysis essay, and a research paper through writing, revising, and editing.
- identify, practice, and apply different stylistic techniques of writing.
- utilize the basic skills of note-taking including how to summarize, paraphrase, and quote through investigating sources for a research paper.
- demonstrate independent thinking and study skills through reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
The following texts are used in 10th grade English classes. We may or may not cover material in the following texts, novels, and plays. Furthermore, our novels may include other titles approved by the BASD. Any of the titles may be used in either the academic or honors curriculum.
1. Elements of Literature: Fourth Course (Holt Textbook and resources)
2. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
3. Night by Elie Wiesel
4. Othello by William Shakespeare
5. A Raisin in the Sun by Lorraine Hansberry
6. Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom
7. Bleachers by John Grisham
8. A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks
9. Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Honors Students:
Will also read an independent novel from an independent reading Book List/Project and possibly Oedipus.
Additional Resources
Grammar for Writing: Fifth Course
Reader’s Handbook: A Student Guide for Reading and Learning
Vocabulary Workshop: New Edition
Independent Novel Choices/Literature Circle Novel Choices
Power Library (on-line)
Units
Continuous learning throughout the semester/year will include the following areas of study.
1. Persuasive/Argument Essay; Literary Analysis Essay; Research Essay
2. Poetry, Short Fiction, Non-Fiction, Fiction (novels), and Drama
3. Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking (including oral and written)
4. Grammar and Vocabulary
5. Reading, Writing, and Study Skills to enhance performance on standardized tests
Assessments
Assessments (both formative and summative) include but are not limited to the following:
Essays, Research Paper, Quizzes, Tests, Homework, Projects, Oral Presentations, Writing, and Journaling, Peer Review, Self-evaluation, Group work, Class work, Class participation, Class discussions, and Reading.
Grading
10% Responsibility (includes but not limited to: being prepared for class, turning in assignments on time, submitting paperwork, etc.)
10% Homework (includes but not limited to: vocabulary packets, grammar assignments, pre-writing, outlines, etc.)
20% Class work (includes but not limited to: standardized testing practice packets, quizzes/formative assessments, short-term projects, etc.)
25% Tests/Major Assessments (includes but not limited to: vocabulary and grammar tests; unit assessments; long-term projects; summative assessments; etc.)
35% Writing Assessments (includes but not limited to: pre-writing, outlines, formal and informal writing assignments, etc.)
Homework
Homework and outside classroom assignments are an extension of the learning in class. It is imperative to the success of all students that homework and other assignments be completed and submitted on time. Thus, the following classroom rules outline the consequences for submitting and not submitting homework.
1. Grades are earned for completed homework assignments. Some assignments are scored for completeness, while others are scored for correctness. Grades will be labeled accordingly.
2. A zero (0) will be given for not submitting homework on time. No late homework assignments will be accepted.
3. Late writing and project assignments may be subject to one-letter-grade penalty per day.
4. Parents may access the Parent Portal for student progress reports at any time. Please review the information regarding the Parent Portal and receive a login and password from the SSC office or contact your child's teacher.
5. Grades are posted weekly on the Parent Portal for parents and students. Therefore, students are aware of progress on a weekly basis, as well as missing assignments.
Reminder: Students are responsible for all missed work upon returning to class. Since students are provided a calendar for all assignments and due dates, there are no excuses for late or missing work.
Field trips and Early Dismissal for Sports: Field trips and early dismissals, including but but not limited to band, orchestra, and choir trips and vacations, are NOT an excuse to miss homework, tests, or quizzes. Students attending field trips MUST get work in advance and turn in all missed work upon return. Tests and quizzes will either be completed prior to the field trip or immediately upon return. No extra time will be given due to field trips or early dismissals.
To obtain work for an illness please contact the teacher and/or the guidance counselor. Students are entitled to the same number of days for make-up as the number of days absent. This does NOT include a one-day absence prior to a test day that was previously announced.
If a test is missed for illness, the student will be required to stay after school to make up the assessment. If a test will be missed due to a school function, the student will arrange a time with the teacher to take the assessment; it is usually advised that the student take it either the day before the absence or the day after the absence.
Projects
During the course, students will be required to complete independent and group projects. Students will be given specific instructions for each project. Projects are expected on the due date. Late projects will be penalized as per the discretion of the teacher.
Expectations and Classroom Procedures
1. HOMEWORK: Homework is expected to be completed and submitted on time.
2. WRITING REQUIREMENTS: All students are required to turn in the major writing assignments [on-demand essay, persuasive/argument essay, research essay, AND literary analysis]. Failure to submit an essay for grading may result in a failing marking period grade and/or a failing course grade. Writing is an integral part of the English curriculum.
3. LEAVING CLASS: Students must sign out and have a pass/agenda book and their IDs to leave the classroom. It is assumed that students have their ID badges at all times, and they are to have them while walking in the hallways.
4. TARDINESS: Students must possess a pass/agenda book signed when tardy. Passes grant an excused tardy; otherwise, students will be assigned a teacher detention for tardiness. Three times of tardiness will result in an office referral. No warnings are given as students are expected to know and understand the rules.
5. INTERACTIONS: Put-downs, bullying, racist remarks, and profanity will NOT be tolerated.
6. PLAGIARISM: All work must be each student’s own work, unless specified as “group work.” (See Student Handbook for plagiarism and cheating). No warnings about plagiarism will be granted. Students may participate in a Plagiarism mini-project at the beginning of the semester. Regardless, all students are aware of plagiarism definitions and expectations.
7. MISSED WORK: Each student is responsible for missed work. “I didn’t know” is not an acceptable excuse. Quizzes and tests will only be made up after school or at the discretion of the teacher. All assignments are posted daily on the whiteboard and on class calendar. Students are also responsible for keeping assignment due dates up-to-date.
8. BOOKS: Students are to take care of their books. Missing or destroyed books must be paid for at the end of the semester/year; this includes books borrowed from the classroom library. School policy is that a student may not take the final exam if there are outstanding obligations.
9. SCHOOL RULES: School rules will be reinforced. No hats, cell phones, iPods, mp3 players, video games, etc. ID badges must be with the student at all times. Proper dress is expected. No eating or drinking during class. Gum is okay if it stays in the mouth or is disposed of properly. Students may have water as long as it is in a closed water bottle. There is a place in the classroom to store cell phones while in class. The classroom is a learning environment; therefore, the no cell phone policy will be in effect.
10. CLASS PARTICIPATION: Participation is expected as it enhances learning. All students will be expected to participate on a regular basis through the following: asking and answering questions; submitting homework, papers, and projects on time; reading and discussing literature. A participation grade may be given based on preparedness and absenteeism.
Teacher Detention
Detentions: After school 2:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. (1/2 hour) [1st offense]
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. (1 hour) [2nd offense]
Teacher detentions are assigned for non-compliance of classroom and school guidelines and routines. It is a consequence of the student’s actions or lack thereof.
Any student who does not attend an assigned teacher detention will be referred to the office. Please refer to the student handbook for further explanation.