Scholarship 11th American Literature
Mrs. Welna
Welcome! During this course, we will be studying a variety of American authors and
literature. In addition, we will be working to acquire new vocabulary as well as to
improve your writing, research, and communication skills.
In order for you to be successful, here are some things you need to know:
Reading
This is a literature based course which means we will be reading …A LOT. Some
reading will be done in class, but most will be done outside of class. Quizzes over the
readings will be frequent and will cover basic concepts and ideas from the readings.
These quizzes will not be announced before hand. Discussions will enhance our
understanding of the reading material, so be prepared to think, to develop your own ideas
and opinions, and to share your ideas with your fellow students. Tests/ projects / papers
will follow each major unit covered.
Writing
 Essays—You will write 4 - 5major essays (each varying in length and style) this
year. For each, you will be expected to follow the writing process; this includes
pre-writing, composing a rough draft, participating in peer editing, revising, and
producing a polished final copy. Each essay is worth 100 points.
**One letter grade dropped for each day late. Not accepted after 3 days.

There will be a minimum of 2 in-class essays throughout the year. You will be
given 1-2 class periods to write a well-developed and polished essay based on a
given prompt. Each essay is worth 50 points.

In addition, you will complete a variety of smaller writing assignments (responses
to literature, personal writing, etc…) which will range from 20-40 points each.

Finally, you will complete journals weekly. Journals will include free-writing
and writing in response to an assigned topic. Free-writing is time for you to
write about whatever topic(s) you choose for a specified amount of time; the idea
is for you to write continuously without stopping and to let your mind flow freely.
Journals are kept in your binder (dated and in chronological order) and are graded
(once each semester) based on completion and thoughtfulness.

As we work to improve our writing skills, we will continue to review and study
elements of grammar. In-class and homework assignments will be given to help
you develop mastery over the material. Quizzes and tests will be given
periodically.
Vocabulary
In order to build a strong vocabulary and prepare for college entrance tests, we will study
a list of 200 vocabulary words throughout the year. Practice activities and tests will
accompany each unit. This word list builds throughout the year and old words are never
gone. This means you will see the words that you are given during the first quarter on
the final exam. You will be expected to study vocabulary on a regular basis. I
recommend making flashcards.
Binder
You are expected to bring your binder to class every day. You are also expected to keep
your binder organized, as it will be graded. The grade is based on organization, content,
and overall neatness.
SAT/ACT Test Preparation
Throughout the year, you will review and improve the skills that will be tested on the
English portions of these tests.
Materials:
 pens/ pencils/ highlighters
 loose leaf paper (notebook paper with frilly edges not accepted)
 a 1 inch 3 ring binder
 9 dividers with tabs clearly marked as follows:
1. BUSINESS- this section will contain your grade sheet, rules, policies,…
2. JOURNAL- all journals need to be dated and in order
3. VOCABULARY- all vocabulary lists, activities, tests, quizzes, etc…
4. LITERATURE - notes, study guides, reading quizzes, etc. for
novels, plays, short stories, etc…
5. NONFICTION6. WRITING- essay topics, drafts, revisions, writing activities, etc…
7. SAT/ACT
8. CAREER
9. RESEARCH

Additional recommended Materials
-Index Cards for flashcards
-a Flash Drive for saving essays and projects