English 9A Syllabus ~ Rosemount High School ~ 2010-2011
Mr. Baker
Scott.Baker@district196.org
I. Course Description:
English 9 consists of general study designed to prepare students for further learning experiences in the area of language arts.
The course will include writing instruction and usage. Students will review punctuation and usage rules, increase their
vocabulary and use the writing process to develop several multi-paragraph essays. Students will learn and demonstrate an
understanding of basic speech structure, organization, and the small group discussion process. Students will also read to
critically comprehend poetry, drama, short stories, novels, and non-fiction. Students will receive writing instruction and
feedback on their writing in preparation for the Graduation Test of Written Composition on April 17th, 2012. Students will
write to a state prompt in preparation for the state test. To fulfill graduation requirements, each student must take
either the above sequence of courses or Honors English, 9A, B & C.
II. Course Objectives
Upon completion of this course you will be able to:
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Accurately know and understand the basic policies and procedures of Rosemount High School
Be familiar with the RHS library, its databases and procedures
Access and evaluate information from a variety of sources
Recognize and identify the elements of short stories and novels
Use context to identify the meaning of unfamiliar words
Read for multiple levels of meaning (identify, explain, interpret, analyze)
Understand and apply the writing process to improve your writing
Write a clear, concise thesis statement and develop detailed support in an extended essay
Organize ideas in your writing in a meaningful pattern
Use correct punctuation, spelling, grammar, capitalization, word choice and word usage
Write a literary analysis paper
Accurately identify/document sources
Unit One - High School Transition
In a written essay, you will articulate your goals for your high school years, noting differences between middle
school and high school. This essay will serve as a diagnostic tool focusing on ideas and organization. You will also
study, learn about, and be able to teach others about the policies and procedures at RHS.
Unit Two - Short Stories
In this unit we will read, analyze and discuss various selected short stories with a focus on elements of short stories
and various themes.
Elements of Fiction:
 Plot
 Setting
 Characterization
 Conflict
 Tone and mood
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Point of view
Symbols
Irony
Foreshadowing
Figurative language
Imagery
Reading Skills:
 Main idea
 Supporting details
 Inferences
 Cause and effect
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Compare and contrast
Speculating
Challenging the text
Summarizing
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Historical context
Theme
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Drawing conclusions
Extending the text
Analyzing details
Making interpretations
Evaluating
Unit Three - Grammar/Usage (ongoing throughout the trimester)
We will study correct word usage and grammar terms including nouns, verbs, adjectives, conjunctions, adverbs,
prepositions and pronouns. We will also study and employ correct sentence structure to eliminate problems in
writing including sentence fragments and run-on sentences.
Unit Four - Literary Analysis Essay
You will write a multi-paragraph, word-processed literary analysis paper. The specifics will be explained when the
assignment draws nearer, but for now see the elements listed below to preview the skills the paper addresses.
Elements of Effective Writing:
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Writing process (two drafts and a final)
Clear and concise thesis
Detailed support and elaboration of ideas
Meaningful organization
Focused thinking (presents an insight)
Integrate quotes for support
Properly cite quotes
Correct use of language conventions
Personal voice
Unit Five - To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
Prejudice, understanding and courage are three main themes of this Pulitzer Prize winning story set in the
American South during the Great Depression.
We will study many of the elements of fiction and reading skills listed above in the short story unit, as well as
vocabulary and traits unique to novels. While we read, we will: respond personally, make inferences, speculate,
challenge the text, summarize, draw conclusions, extend the text, analyze details, make interpretations based on
historical information, and evaluate.
III. Grading Policy:
Grades will be comprised of a combination of participation, daily assignments, quizzes, and tests. There will be
one major paper assigned per trimester and other projects and writing assignments throughout the year.
Grading scale:
A
93-100%
A90-92%
B+
87-89%
B
BC+
83-86%
80-82%
77-79%
C
CD+
73-76%
70-72%
67-69%
D
DF
63-66%
60-62%
59% and below
IV. Classroom Expectations
• Show respect for each other at all times (thoughts, words, actions)
• Bring all books and materials to class
• Follow directions the first time they are given
• Change tasks quickly and quietly
• Raise your hand and wait for permission to speak
• Stay seated unless you have permission to do otherwise (pencils, garbage, dismissal)
V. Class Policies
1. Make-up Work
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For each day you are absent, you have two days to turn in missed work before it is considered late.
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After returning from an absence, see me about what you missed. This is your responsibility, not mine.
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Assignments missed due to an unexcused absence will NOT receive credit.
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Quizzes and tests must be made up the day you return. Make arrangements with me to come in. Failure to do so
could result in failure of the quiz/test.
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Homework assignments must be handed in when asked for, otherwise they will be considered late. Reduced credit will
be given to all late work.
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You will receive one "Late Pass" per trimester. A “Late Pass” allows you to turn in one assignment late for full credit,
but it cannot be used on major assignments like papers or speeches. I keep track of the passes, therefore you do not
receive an actual “Late Pass” ticket.
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Simply write: "LATE PASS" at the top of the assignment. If it is not labeled, it will not receive credit.
When a unit has been finished, late work/late passes will no longer be accepted.
2. Bring all current materials to class, each day. You will need:
-current textbooks/novels
-TW O notebooks. One will be a Writer’s Notebook that always stays in class. You will also need a separate
notebook you keep with you for notes.
-pen/pencil
-folder/3-ring binder for organization
-student planner for organization
3. You will be typing many assignments for this class, and others, so a flash drive is required. They are inexpensive
and are a great way to keep your papers, PowerPoints, etc. organized.
4. Electronic devices (cell phones, i-pods, etc.) must be turned off and put away during class. If electronic devices are
seen or heard, they will be confiscated and turned over to administration. This will be strictly enforced!
5. The plagiarism policy is strictly enforced. No work will be accepted that is not original, so do not copy/cheat! If
caught, a grade of zero will be given, along with an administrative referral and parent contact.
6. Be on time! If you come tardy to class, you must have a pass in order to enter. If you do not have a pass, you may be
sent to the office for administrative intervention.
7. I am available for help after school from 2:20-3:00, M, T, R, F in room 227. If you need help or have questions,
feel free to stop buy. If you need extensive help, it is most useful to set up a time a day or two in advance.
8. Food and beverages are not permitted in class at any time. Water is the exception as long as it has a lid.
9. You are encouraged to use the restroom during passing time. I prefer that you ask to use the restroom during the last
ten minutes of class, unless it is an emergency.
10. Keep your backpack under your desk during class.
11. Sit up straight and stay awake in this class. You can sleep between 2:20 p.m. and 7:30 a.m.
12. Enjoy the journey, follow directions, and don’t be afraid to ask questions.