English 8 Ms, Schuster 419-892-2338 ext $ Schuster Sara@LucasCubs org www.AdogAteMyHomework.weebly.com Course Description: English 8 covers several topics in language. The course is designed to build on reading and communication skills, The class will focus on literary interpretation, but will also cover nonfiction, research, writing in multiple formats, public speaking, and vocabulary, Materials: Literature: The Reader's Choice Course 3 (Glencoe, 2002) Novels will be distributed by the high school library and may include My Brother Sam is Dead A Day No Pigs Would Die The Incredible Journey Summer of My German Soldier Harriet Tubman: Conductor on the Underground Railroad Folder for maintaining current class work and writings Films may be viewed as whole or in part: The Others (PG-13 for “frightening moments”) The Incredible Journey or Homeward Bound (G) One Survivor Remembers (Documentary, not rated) The Diary of Anne Frank (Not rated due to age of film) Summer of My German Soldier (Not rated, made for television) A website www.AdogAteMyHomework.weebly.com contains materials for all of my courses. Under the English resources tab you will find work for each unit and several class novels, Additional items will likely be added throughout the year Course Requirements: Students are expected to read assigned pieces. Writing will include both formal and informal pieces and can be in a variety of genres, though the focus will be on essay and research writing. Writing should follow the guidelines presented in class and build on skills leamed in previous courses. Writing should be cited properly to avoid plagiarism Grading: Class work/Homework: 10-15pts (Point values are approximations) Essays: 30pts Unit tests: SOpts Class work is typically begun in class and may often be finished during the class period provided students maintain focus on their work. Work not completed in class becomes homework due the next class day. Class work and unit tests typically consist of multiple choice, short answer questions (requiring a two sentence response) and extended response questions (requiring a four sentence response). Other work may be seen periodically throughout the year.Final drafts for papers and essays should be typed, double spaced, in 2 12 point times new roman font. Margins should be set at one inch. Standard spelling, grammar, punctuation, formatting, and citations are required, Informal writing needs to be legible or it will not be scored. In addition, the school board has approved a policy concerning academic integrity, which is outlined in the student handbook. It is important material that should be reviewed carefully. Due Dates: Required work should be brought to class. Students will not be dismissed to search for work. Late elass work will not be accepted without an excused absence. Partially completed work will eam partial credit. Late formal papers and essays will be docked $ points per day late in most cases, however, late papers will not be accepted after interims or the end of a grading period. Makeup work must be completed as per school board policy outlined in the student handbook, Students are responsible for arranging time to make up missed tests or exams. Classroom Management: Students should arrive on time with necessary materials. They are expected to treat others, and their materials with respect. Distracting behavior will not be tolerated. School rules (see the student handbook for a complete list) will be enforced. Cell phone use will not be tolerated, Electronic devices should be off and put away unless the student has received express permission from the teacher. “Assignments for the week (or sometimes the unit) are typically posted on the board and should be recorded into each student's planner. Grades are typically recorded within the week, however please be aware that scoring longer written assignments is a time consuming process and will take longer. Final Thonghts: This is a very general overview of English 8 and any of the above policies and guidelines may change as circumstances warrant. Please feel free to contact me with any questions ‘or concerns that may arise. Please sign and return the final page by Monday, August 24, 2015 Thank you for your time and consideration, I look forward to working with you in the new schoo! year.English 8 Course Information Sheet 1 (student) have read and understand the course information sheet. student signature _ date 1, (guardian) have read and understand the course information sheet. __ guardian signature date