English III Honors

Course of Study

Honors American Literature is an intensive text-based study of American Literature in chronological order with emphasis placed on ‘The American Dream’ as experienced by various ethnic groups. It is designed to prepare students for the challenging demands of any university English program. Students will progressively develop sophisticated writing skills through response journals and expository, critical and analytical writing. Students will also develop their communication skills through a variety of discussions, debates, and oral presentations. Students are expected to perform a high level of critical thinking and translate this into high level writing

Supplies Needed

  • A one inch binder with 5 dividers exclusively for English
  • A journal or bound composition book for responding and analyzing literature. This is to be used only for this class and will be collected periodically.
  • An American Heritage Dictionary (paperback is best – it will be used throughout high school and is good enough for college use.)
  • Black pens or pencils for class work – other colors of ink are not acceptable.
  • Your textbook and any current reading
  • A yellow highlighter

Classroom Expectations

Respect

  • Students will demonstrate respect for other students and the teacher by using appropriate language, being prepared for class, following directions, and adhering to all school policies.

Be prepared

  • Always come to class prepared. This means coming into class on time and being seated by the time the bell rings. Bring all necessary supplies.

Expect great things from yourself and your peers

  • Your attitude plays an important role in your education. If you believe you can succeed – you can!

Take ownership of your education

  • Take personal responsibility for you learning: set goals, evaluate progress towards those goals, adhere to high standards and revise you performance when needed.

Homework and Assignment Policies

  • Assignments will be listed on monthly assignment schedules given to students as well as in Moodle and on the school website. Remember, assignment schedules are always open to adjustment as necessary depending on class needs.
  • It is the student’s responsibility to complete all assignments on time. Unless otherwise noted, Moodle assignments must be done on the day they are due, if they are Thursday’s homework they must be done on Thursday. If they are done late they will have points deducted for being late.

Grading System

A=90%-100% B=80%-89% C=70%-79% D=60%-69% F=0%-59%

Contact Information

I will be at school from Tuesday through Thursday during regular school hours. You can contact me by email from the schools website or may call my home at (619)443-7636. Be sure to leave a message with a number and your name if I don’t answer and I will call you back.

I’m looking forward to a great year with your student!

Mrs. Sparks
English Department Chair