Course Outline: World Literature/Composition I

Course Description

World Literature and Composition 1 is a class that builds a strong foundation in grammar, composition and literature analysis. The course will begin by assessing student knowledge of grammar then delve into literary concepts and composition. Students will complete outside reading projects, write a variety of essays, and create portfolios by analyzing and exploring literary and composition topics.


Course Objectives

Apply word analysis and vocabulary skills to comprehend selections.
Apply reading strategies to improve understanding and fluency.
Understand how literary elements and techniques are used to convey meaning.
Read, comprehend and interpret a variety of literary works.
Use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, capitalization and structure.
Compose well-organized and coherent writing for specific purposes and audiences.
Communicate ideas in writing to accomplish a variety of purposes.
Listen effectively in formal and informal situations.
Speak effectively using language appropriate to the situation and audience.
Locate, organize, and use information from various sources to answer questions, solve problems and communicate ideas.
Apply acquired information, concepts and ideas to communicate in a variety of formats.


Course Information

Textbooks: Elements of Literature Third Course
Elements of Writing Third Course
Each student must have:
a three-ring binder divided into 5 categories – daily notes, homework, handouts, vocabulary, writing (this will be collected and evaluated periodically, bring daily)
a journal (bring daily)
access to a computer with the internet


Portfolio

Students are required to prepare and present a key concept to the class (recorded), read and write a formal literary analysis on teacher-approved literature, memorize and give a dramatic interpretation of a poem (recorded).


Papers

Formal papers will be graded on rubrics and must be submitted:
- Double-spaced
- Times New Roman, 12 font
- Hard copy
- Via email ewheeler@newarkhs.k12.il.us


Grading Scale

99-100 = A+ 91-92 = B+ 84-85 = C+ 76-77 = D+ 95-98 = A 88-90 = B 80-83 = C 72-75 = D
92.5-94 = A 85.5-87= B- 77.5-79 = C- 69.5-71 = D-


Expectations

Prompt – Please be in your seats when the bell rings. (3 tardies = 2 hour detention after school)
Prepared – Complete all outside assignments and bring necessary items to class.
Productive – Use class time effectively.
Polite – Show respect to one another.
Positive – Encourage your own growth and that of others by remaining optimistic and open-minded.

You are expected to follow the discipline policies stated in the school handbook.


Consequences

Our classroom must be a place where students feel comfortable and confident learning. Any violation of the above expectations can endanger a healthy educational environment and will result in the following:
Verbal or written warning
Detention (served half hour before school) and Parental/Guardian Contact
Referral



Homework

Each day homework is assigned, write the assignment in your agendas as well as approximately how long you believe it will take to complete it. If the assignment is not turned in when I collect it, it may be turned in one day late for half credit.


Absences

In the event a student has an excused absence, he/she has one day for every day out to turn in the missed assignments. Students with unexcused absences will not be afforded this opportunity. Any missed assignments due to unexcused absences may result in up to 4.4% of the student quarter grade reduction due to the loss of participation and instruction.