Books to be read this year:
The Crucible
Huckleberry Finn (probably)
To Kill A Mocking Bird
The Great Gatsby
Twelfth Night
Biloxi Blues
Book of choosing – from suggested list
Units for American Literature
America’s writing (short stories up to 1750)
Salem Witch Trials and Puritanism
Research Paper
1920s in America
American Romanticism
Shakespeare
Transcendentalism
War Literature
GRADING INFORMATION
 Homework – 15% of cycle grade
o typically study guides, worksheets, or preparing for major projects
o graded (almost always) on effort

Classwork – 15% of cycle grade
o Typically worksheets, notes on class material, or preparing for major projects
o Pop-quizzes fall into this category
o Graded (usually) on effort

Quizzes – 25% of cycle grade
o Always on vocabulary, notebook check, and books read
o Sometimes creative writing will be put in this category
o Always given at least 24 hour notice
 Tests – 35% of cycle grade
o Mainly essays (most essays count as double TEST grades)
o Essay is one grade – Rewrite is a second separate grade
o Occasionally there will be projects, speeches, and extra credit opportunities
 Participation – 10% of cycle grade
o Class average as starting point
o Add points for volunteering to lead warm ups or read, etc.
o Deduct points for being unprepared or disruptive
Important Information About This Class:
 Your children are allowed to leave the room – despite what they might tell
you.
 I take many assignments (even essays) late for a 50
 In order to pass English, students must write essays
 I can work with problems ahead of time – I will not take excuses
 Please encourage students to see me for extra help if they feel lost or
continue to do poorly in class – I am happy to work with each individual
student
 Students do not have to work in a group
 I grade essays according to academic standards – not the class average
 I update grades once a week
 Make up work will be updated when possible
 Encourage your child to read each night – don’t let the work pile up
 I am here before and after school for extra help
 I can be free periods ________________________________
 If you or your child need to contact me – my e-mail address is
Cheryl.Schlick@plps.org