Creative Writing I | Fall 2015
Matthew Severns | matthew.severns@anoka.k12.mn.us | (763) 506-7187
Course description:
Students will explore writing in different, more creative genres than they are used to. Throughout the
course, students will learn about the writing process, from idea conception to editing, and a portfolio of
varied work will emerge.
Required materials:
Composition notebook
Pen or pencil
Course units:
Fiction
Poetry
Screenplays
Creative Nonfiction
Grading:
Distribution
50% Final portfolio and associated work
30% Journal entries and associated work
20% Independent read and associated work
Letter grade percentages
Low
High
A
93
100
A90
92.99
B+
87
89.99
B
83
86.99
BC+
C
C-
Low
80
77
73
70
High
82.99
79.99
76.99
72.99
D+
D
DF
Low
67
63
60
0
High
69.99
66.99
62.99
59.99
Retake Policy
With the exception of the common summative assessment, assignments and assessments can be revised and
submitted again. Students must confer with Mr. Severns about revision requirements and expectations.
Revisions must be submitted in a timely manner and are bound by final work deadlines.
Late Work
Because of the cumulative nature of the course, late work cannot be accepted for full credit. Students may
submit work late, provided it is before final work deadlines, which will be communicated by Mr. Severns
periodically. Late work due to absences will be accepted as per CRHS policies. If an assignment is not
ready for submission by its associated due date and time, it is late.
Expectations:
 Be respectful and reasonable. I will reciprocate.
 Come to class prepared. Be ready to learn when the bell rings.
 Maintain awareness of assignment deadlines. I will provide advance notice for larger assignments,
but be ready to complete a reasonable amount of homework daily.
 Understand that unexcused late work is not accepted for full credit. There is a stack of explanation
forms on my desk that must be completed and turned in with each late assignment. Be honest
when filling these out.
 Participate in the class. I want to hear what you have to say; hearing multiple perspectives creates
a more robust learning environment.
 Be honest. Cheating and plagiarism are taken very seriously. Infractions result in complete loss of
credit for the given assignment and any applicable follow-up as per school and district policy.
 Be responsible with regard to attendance.

Take ownership of your learning. I want you to succeed, and I will do whatever I can to get you to
where you need to be. Let me know if you are struggling with something.
 Recognize that you are nearly an adult.
 Understand that this course will present challenges. Be prepared to persevere and exercise selfdiscipline.
High-Priority Learning Targets:
 11.7.4.4: Produce clear and coherent writing in which the development, organization, and style are
appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
 11.7.5.5: Use a writing process to develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, drafting,
revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach, focusing on addressing what is most
significant for a specific purpose and audience.