English 9 Syllabus

Mrs. Waters
Phone: 428-5317
Email: [email protected]

Welcome to English 9! 
I am excited to begin a new school year and have great things planned for our class. The objective of English 9 is to build on your skills in communication, critical thinking, grammar, reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing in preparation for English 10.

Student Expectations
 1. Follow all guidelines outlined in the Hugoton High School Student Handbook as well as team rules and other directions given by the teacher.
 2. You will demonstrate respect for yourself, other students and the teacher through appropriate language and behavior. I will not tolerate disrespect, rude or loud behavior, rowdiness, obscene language, or disobedience. 
 3. Always come to class prepared. You need to be seated before the bell rings with all the materials you need for class such as books, notebook, paper, pencil, and any assigned homework.
 4. Keep an open mind when learning about different cultures, traditions, beliefs and life styles. Respect that everyone is different or unique in some way.
 5. You will be expected to work hard and put forth the effort to increase your knowledge in preparation for English 10. We have a great deal of material to cover so we will keep very busy.

Teacher Expectations
1. I promise to treat every student individually and with compassion. 
2. I agree to be available before and after school if my students need assistance. 
3. I pledge to create and maintain a safe and friendly classroom environment.

Coursework / Assignments / evaluation / Materials

Literature: Analyze and interpret various texts using literary concepts. We will examine works in the text, outside readings, and the study of major works such as The OdysseyLord of the Flies, and Romeo and Juliet. Text: Literature: The Reader’s ChoiceCourse 4, Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 2000.

Writing: Utilize the Six Trait writing model to write effectively for a variety of audiences, purposes, and contexts to be included in their cumulative high school portfolios. You will have daily writing assignments such as journals and long term writing assignments such as essays and reports throughout the course.

Grammar and Usage: Grammar: Parts of Speech, Phrases, Clauses and Sentence Structure, Diagramming Sentences, Verb Tenses and Voice, Subject-Verb Agreement, Correct use of Pronouns and Modifiers. Text: Writer’s Choice: Grammar and Composition, Grade 9, Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 2001.

Assignments: We will complete a variety of grammar, reading, vocabulary and writing assignments in class and for homework. Homework will be given to supplement the material discussed in class as well as provide additional information you will need in preparation for upcoming lessons. Homework will be assigned with a specific due date. Failure to submit a designated assignment on the due date will result in a 50% deduction of the points when turned in at the next class. No late work will be accepted for major assignments --book reports, research papers, etc. In addition, your presence in the classroom is essential to your success. If you are absent from class it is your responsibility to get your homework assignment when you return to school. Make-up work will be accepted as outlined in your student handbook.

Evaluation: Your evaluation each nine weeks will include grades for daily class assignments, homework, projects, presentations, quizzes, tests and writing assignments. Grading will be on a cumulative point system. Grades are figured by dividing points earned by points possible.  Assignments are accorded points based on length and complexity. The grading scale established by the school will be used. As a reminder, the grading scale is as follows:

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

Materials: Required: Composition notebook (that you can leave in the room) and pen or pencil. Other materials such as poster board, note cards, etc. may be necessary for projects throughout the year, however; I will let you know in advance when you will need them. 

Student / Teacher Communication
It is very important to me that we communicate on a regular basis. Whether you like English (or even my class for that matter), I WANT to see you succeed. I recognize that not everyone is a strong reader, speaker, or writer; however, these skills are essential to your future success in college, a vocational program or as an employee in an ever changing global market place. To help ensure you success, I need you to communicate to me any questions, problems, concerns or comments you have related to class. I am here from 8:00 to 4:00, stop by before or after school, or make an appointment for another time. You can also email me as I check my email regularly at school and at home. I have high expectations for you and know that you can succeed in English 9! I am excited about our year together!