Intro to Lit Course Overview


The course is a survey of the short story, novel, drama, non-fiction, and poetry. Literature study will focus on the understanding of structure and the use of literary terminology. Composition instruction, based on the process approach, provides practice in writing for a variety of purposes and includes research projects. Also included in the course are vocabulary development, instruction in grammar, technology experience, and a general review of study skills.

During Intro to Literature A, we will work on a short story unit, a poetry unit, Romeo and Juliet, To Kill a Mockingbird, and several writing assignments.

Classroom Rules, Expectations, Grading and Important Information

Classroom rules and expectations can be summed up in one word: Respect.

Supplies:
- College ruled spiral notebook, preferably one with perforated edges
- Folder or 1” 3 ring binder (whichever you can keep papers in neatly)
- College ruled loose-leaf paper
- A USB Flash drive- this may be used for other classes as well.


Bring your laptop, textbook, notebook, folder, and pen to class each day. Your computer should be charged before you reach class. You may only use your computer when you have permission to do so.

Makeup Work:
It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to find out what assignments and/or notes you missed during an absence. If you miss a quiz or test, make it up the day you return. Most of the time you will not have time in class to complete a makeup quiz or test, so schedule an appointment with me. If you know you will be absent, complete the work BEFORE you go. If a quiz or test is scheduled for the day you return, you will be expected to take it with the class.

Late assignments:
The weekly outline of class assignments can be found on the wiki under "Course Calendar." It is YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to know what the assignments are and to complete them on time. Assignments need to be handed in at the BEGINNING of class on the day they are due. Please print your assignments before the bell rings...otherwise, it will be considered late. If an assignment is one day late, it will drop 10 percent (one letter grade) for each day it is late.


Tardiness:
Be IN your seat when the bell rings. You will be tardy if you are not in your seat. You will be allowed two tardies every trimester before a detention is given.

Participation:
You are expected to participate fully in class each day. Cell phones are not permitted. Keep them off. Plagiarism is not tolerated. It is a serious offense and school policy will be followed in any case of plagiarism. A zero will be given for the assignment and administration will be notified for proper disciplinary action.

Study Advice:
If you have a question, others probably do too. Please speak up and ask in class. If you need extra help, let me know. Come to class each day prepared. Keep up with your reading because we will have reading quizzes most days.

Grading Scale:
98-100 A+
95-97 A
93-94 A-
90-92 B+
87-89 B
85-86 B-
82-84 C+
79-81 C
77-78 C-
75-76 D+
72-74 D
70-71 D-
00-69 F


Grades will be posted online in Net Classroom in a timely manner as per handbook guidelines. You are responsible for checking your grades online.

Assignments, supplements, a calendar and more will be posted online throughout the year. Follow the website: www.speck-english.wikispaces.com

Contact Information:

I am available before and after school most days in the campus ministry room (off the library). Please stop by with any questions, concerns, or if you need help with an assignment. You can also email me at r.speck@pndhs.org .