Ms. Shasta Blisard
EN 80: Humanities
480.472.8103
Room 229
sblisard@mpsaz.org
EN 80: Humanities
Course Guidelines
Course Description: EN 80 is a semester long course designed for the able and
ambitious student to survey the arts and history reflected within Western Civilization.
Emphasis is placed upon the works of major authors and literary movements. A
humanities approach will also include the art, architecture, history, geography, social
and political climate, and culture of Western Civilization. Students will become adept at
analyzing literature, gain an understanding of and an appreciation for literary criticism,
as well as historical perspectives, and implementation of the arts to enhance their
critical thinking and writing skills.
Required Materials: Students need to purchase and bring to class the following
items:
*RMHS Student Handbook with calendar (or your own planner)
*Binder with writing paper or notebook of writing paper
*Blue or black pen for writing
*Red pen for editing and correcting
*Pencil for rough drafts and testing purposes
*Access to computer and internet for research and major compositions
Textbook (Supplied by the School):
The Creative Impulse: An Introduction to the Arts by Dennis J. Sporre
Assignments (Including but not Limited to):
*Vocabulary assignments and tests
*Major literary works readings plus short stories, poetry, and plays
*Major formal essays
*In class essays
*Formal tests over content
*Miscellaneous projects and presentations (individually and in groups)
*Study guides, vocabulary exercises, and miscellaneous creative assignments (i.e. daily
work/homework)
Procedures:
*Study guides, vocabulary exercises, and miscellaneous creative assignments (i.e. daily
work/homework) are due on the day that the assignment is due
*Essays and other writing assignments may be accepted late for a penalty (1/2 credit)
under special circumstances
*Formal Essays must be typed and follow MLA Style Guidelines—including a modified
MLA heading on the upper LEFT corner of the first page:
Student’s First Name Last Name
Teacher’s Name
Name of Class
Date
Plagiarism and Cheating: Anyone caught copying an assignment or cheating on a
test will receive a zero
Grading Procedure: Grades will be weighted: 10% Homework/Classwork, 45%
Projects/Essays, 45% Tests—Note: The Final Exam for this course will be
approximately 10% of your overall grade composite
Classroom Rules:
*Come to the classroom on time and prepared to learn
*Use courtesy in the classroom
*Have respect for others, yourself, and the classroom through your attitude, behavior,
dress, words, and actions
*Take responsibility for our learning and your behavior/actions
*All school rules pertain to this classroom
Attendance: There is no other factor which correlates more with success in school
than attendance. School policies will be followed. Be aware that the content of class
discussions cannot be made up and is frequently used in quiz and test materials.
Questions and Contacting the Teacher: Questions are always welcome. Questions
regarding assignments or grades received will gladly be addressed before or after
class/school or during any arranged meeting. To contact me outside of class time, my
preparation period is ____________________. Messages can be left on voicemail at
480.472.8103 or online at sblisard@mpsaz.org. Furthermore, feel free to check my
staff web page at www.mpsaz.org/rmhs/staff/sbblisard.
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We may be watching some PG13 films in conjunction with writing assignments. Please
sign and return this sheet through your student if you give permission for your child to
watch films rated PG13. If you do not wish for your child to participate in the viewing
of certain materials, an alternate assignment will be provided.
I give permission for my child to watch PG13 films in conjunction with reading and
writing assignments. Also, I have read and understand the course guidelines.
Parent Signature:______________________________________________
Student Name:________________________________________________
Period:______________________________________________________
Date:_______________________________________________________