English 300
American Literature
Saint John Vianney High School
Fall Semester 2012
Mr. Eric Sargent
esargent@vianney.com
Introduction
This course is a survey of American Literature which spans from Native American traditions to the present
day. The main objective is to read, understand and appreciate American Literature as it has emerged in the
history of this country. We will focus primarily on short stories, poetry and the American Novel. This
class, along with American History will give you a better understanding of American influences, ideals,
hopes and desires as they have developed throughout the years. Aside from the study of literature, we will
focus on our own writing in forms of essay, critiques, and journal entries. We will also continue our study
of grammar and vocabulary as to prepare you for the upcoming ACT test. This course, like all of your
courses, is designed to prepare you for the college level.
Course Objectives
1. Read, analyze and understand works of American Literature and how they relate to the growth of
this nation.
2. Read and analyze forms of literary criticism then be able to respond by forming your own
opinions through essay, short oral reports, and discussion.
3. Demonstrate effective styles of composition, utilizing proper grammar, spelling and other writing
techniques.
4. Build and maintain and a stronger working vocabulary.
5. Prepare for the ACT test through sample exercises and tests.
Course Work
 The workload of this course reflects that of a college preparatory school. We will incorporate
skills which you will need for further success at the college level.
 The brunt of your reading will come from the literary packet, novels, and your textbook, American
Short Stories: 1920 to the Present.
 We will continue to develop grammar skills and vocabulary through the use of your textbook and
handouts.
 We will address research skills with the use of your MLA handbook and small research projects.
 Finally, your participation in class discussion is crucial for the success of this class.
Materials
1. American Short Stories: 1920 to the Present
2. Warriner’s Handbook: Fifth Course(Orange Cover)
3. English 300 American Literature Spiral Textbook (Handout)
4. 101 Great American Poems
5. Vocabulary Workshop Level F
6. A Guide to MLA Documentation
7. The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain
8. The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
9. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
10. Folder or organizer with loose-leaf paper
11. Notebook (for notes)
12. Notebook (for journal)
13. Blue or black pens/pencils
Assessment:
Homework
10 points per assignment (assignments are expected to show mastery of the
material being discussed and each assignment must be completely finished or a
zero (0) will be issued for that assignment).
Tests
Tests will be distributed at the end of each Literary Unit. Points will vary.
Quizzes
Quizzes will be given on a daily basis to test for comprehension and completion
of the assignment. Vocabulary quizzes will take place every Friday. All Quiz
points will vary.
Papers
Three 1000 word essays will be assigned and completed throughout the year.
This includes both rough draft and final draft for each paper. Each Final Paper
is worth 100 points.
Research Paper
An argumentative research paper will be due toward the end of the semester.
This is worth 100 points.
Book Project
Each student will be responsible for reading and presenting an American Novel /
Literary Unit to the class. More information to follow.
Final Exam
A Final Exam will be given worth approximately 100 points.
Daily Requirements
Students must complete all assignments (this includes reading assignments). A quiz may be given
after each reading assignment to check for comprehension. Written assignments will be turned in the
following day, unless otherwise instructed. Failing to complete assignments, especially reading
assignments, will be detrimental to your grade.
No late work will be accepted unless prior arrangements have been made.
Cheating and/or Plagiarism is not accepted and will result in a zero and will be reported to the Dean
of Students. Your parents will also be contacted. This includes talking during tests and copying
homework from a neighbor.
Absentees
If you are sick and/or miss a day of school, you must take responsibility for what you missed. Check for
the assignment you missed on my website page accessible through Vianney’s home page. Ask for any
handouts or necessary materials for the lesson when you return.
Assignments and makeup tests/quizzes should be completed by the 2nd day of your return. If the
assignment is not completed within five (5) school days, the assignment will automatically become a zero
without any opportunity to receive credit.
Remember: You are responsible for your own work. You must take the initiative to complete
missing assignments. If needed, ask for help – I am available during Encore, before and after school
to help with any missing assignments.
Daily Expectations
1.
Come to class on time. You must be in your desk before the start of class.
2.
Come prepared. You must have all of your materials with you at the beginning of class. No
students will be allowed to go back to their locker to retrieve materials.
3.
Do not talk out of turn. This includes during tests, presentations, silent reading time and any other
situation that requires you to concentrate and be attentive.
4.
Show proper RESPECT to all members of the classroom community at all times. If you want
respect, you must give respect. This includes coming to class with a positive attitude toward
your class work and classmates. This means No Bullying.
5.
Take care of your classroom. This includes cleaning up after yourself and treating the desks and
walls with respect. Use your common sense. Graffiti to any of my property in room 402 will
result in a fine.
6.
Remain in your seat until the end of class. Students will not be allowed to hang out by the door.
7.
The usage of electronic devices follows the strict guidelines of the Student Handbook.
Consequences
1. First infraction will result in a warning.
2.
Second infraction will result in a detention.
3.
Third infraction will result in a visit to the coordinator’s office and a meeting with your parents.