English 9 Course Description
Mrs. Dawn Piper
dpiper@millingtonschools.org
901-873-8100
Welcome to 9th Grade English, the first of four English courses required for high school graduation! The
following paragraphs outline the policies, objectives, and requirements for this course. However, the syllabus
information may be changed based on my decision as well as the needs of the students.
Course Description:
In order to ensure college and career readiness and success on the TN Ready State Test, students will
increase and refine their communication skills through word study, writing, speaking, listening, and visual
representations. Also, students read extensively from multiple genres and interpret the influence of
historical/societal context on the literature as well as analyze literary elements and explore author’s craft in
both literary and expository tests.
Materials Needed:
 Blue/Black pens/Pencils
 2 Packs of notebook paper


Glue Sticks/ Kleenex
2 Composition Books
Expectations for Behavior:
I strongly believe that students who respect one another and the teacher create a safe environment for learning,
sharing, and growing as a classroom community. Therefore, I expect students to:
 Arrive on time with all materials.
 Eat, drink, and groom outside of the classroom.
 Handle personal business, restroom usage, and preparation of class materials before class begins.
 Respect individuals’ personal space and property.
 Use respectful words, gestures, and tones at all times.
 Follow directions and work during all work times.
Due Process:
Step One: Polite warning
Step Two: Teacher conference
Step Three: Phone call home
Step Four: Parent-teacher conference w/ Guidance Dept.
Step Five: Referral to Administration
NOTE: Steps in due process may vary or be omitted based on severity of infraction.
Homework Policy:
1. Late work is not accepted after 3 days.
2. 5 points is deducted for each day the work is late.
Makeup Policy: Returning absentees have as many days as they were absent to turn in missed work. (Ex. 1 day
absent gets one extra day to turn in work, 2 days absent gets 2 days to turn in and so on) Tests can be made up on
Monday/Tuesday of the week student returns to school.
School Policies: All
school policies will be strictly enforced in the classroom.
Standards-Based Grading Policy:
In order to pass this class, students must have provided clear, consistent, and convincing evidence of having
accomplished all of the designated standards. In addition to meeting the standards, students are expected to
demonstrate habits of mind. These include, but are not limited to, excellent attendance, punctuality, timely and
completed assignments, class participation, citizenship, and cooperation.
Grade Categories:
Tests: 40% (Tests, Essays, Projects)
Quizzes: 30%
Classwork: 20%
Homework: 10%
*Tutorials are Monday/Tuesday afternoons from 2:15 -3:15. Students who fail tests are
required to stay for tutorials and retake their tests for a maximum score of 75.
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Please complete the section below, detach it, and return it to Mrs. Piper.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
I have read and understand the policies and expectations for Mrs. Piper’s English 9 Class.
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Parent/Guardian’s printed name
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Parent/Guardian’s Signature
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Date
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Student’s Signature
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Date
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Parent/Guardian’s e-mail address
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Parent/Guardian’s home/work phone #’s