Dearborn High School
Language Arts 3
Course Syllabus
September 2016 – January 2017
INSTRUCTOR: Ms. Fetter
Email: fetterk@dearbornschools.org
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The primary goal of this course is to build a foundation of writing and reading skills that will prepare students for success in high school, on the SAT, and beyond. Language Arts will provide students with knowledge that will aid them both inside and outside of the classroom. This course will include a significant amount of analytical, argumentative, and expository writing as well as ample amounts of discussion.
MATERIALS (Bring to class every day!)
- Three Subject Notebook: Reader’s Notebook/ Writer’s Notebook/Literary Terms and Vocabulary/Grammar/Homework
- Pens/Pencils/Highlighters
- Independent Reading Book
EVALUATION PROCEDURES
All assignments and tests are graded on a point system. Point values are determined based on the length and nature of each assignment. Some assignments will be formative (assess for learning and thus guide instruction) and some will be summative (assess learning following instruction). Formative assignments will account for 20% of the total grade while summative assignments account for 80% of the total grade. Students will know in advance whether an assignment is either formative or summative.
- Daily assignments/Notes: 10-50 points. A “check system” is also used: Check plus = 10 points, check = 8 points, and check minus = 6 or 7 points. Some assignments are checked for being complete, while others are checked for accuracy.
- Writing assignments: 50-150 points. Some writing pieces will be on demand writing while others will follow a process approach.
- Quizzes & Tests: Unannounced quizzes can and will be given at any time. Any information discussed in class pertaining to our learning targets can and will be included on quizzes, tests and final exams.
- Attendance and Participation: You must be in your seat ready to learn when the bell rings. Active Participation entails doing all that you can do to facilitate learning for yourself and others. It is manifested in multiple ways: by following classroom rules and procedures and our core values and also by listening attentively, asking questions, and engaging in classroom activities.
CLASSROOM PROCEDURES
Homework
- In general, assignments are due at the beginning of class on the due date. Not all late work will be accepted for credit. Discussion questions that receive “check in” points are one type of assignment that will be labeled as such. Another kind of assignment that may not be turned in late is one that you are given class time to complete! However, late work that is accepted for credit will lose the equivalent of one grade per day.
- When you know beforehand that you will miss class because of a school sponsored field trip or activity, it is your responsibility to see that any assignments due that day are handed in at the required time. Extra time will not be given for these assignments, nor will the assignment be accepted late.
- Likewise, if you miss this class, but are in school for any portion of the day, an assignment is still due that day.
- Note that you will not be permitted to make up weeks and weeks’ worth of assignments if you are failing. Stay on top of your assignments and always be aware of your grade! The late policy is fair and will be enforced.
- All work to be handed in must include a complete heading (student’s full name, subject/ hour, date and teacher’s name). If the work is late, or make up work, the heading must include a highlighted label denoting that it is either late or make up work. It must also be placed in the correct folder.
Assignment Standards
- All writing assignments not completed in class must be typed and follow MLA format ( Complete heading, Title, 12 point font, Times New Roman, double-spaced, and one inch margins). Many examples will be made available throughout the year.
- Print assignments before arriving to class. I will not print any assignments for students. If your printer malfunctions, write the assignment neatly in blue or black ink, skip lines, and use only one side of the paper.
- Assignments turned in after I collect your class’ work are considered late, even if turned in the same class period.
- Assignments turned in that do not meet standards will be returned to you. You may resubmit the assignment with a 10% penalty.
Absences
- Check my blog/Google Classroom for information. Email me if needed!
- Ask a classmate for any notes you missed
- See me if you need clarification.
- Make arrangements to take a missed quiz or test.
- If a test or quiz is announced prior to your absence, it must be taken upon your return. If a homework assignment is due the day of your absence and you were in class when it was assigned, you must turn it in upon your return as well.
BASIC BEHAVIORAL EXPECTATIONS
- Respect self and others
- Be ready to learn before the bell rings
- Keep iPods, phones, and other electronics off and out of sight
- Have only water with you—no other food or drink is permitted
- Work bell-to-bell—no lining up at the door
- Bring materials to class and use your agenda daily
I look forward to a fun and productive semester working with you!
Ms. Fetter