English 8 Honors Introduction of class and teacher What you will learn: • Mastery of the 8th grade California Language Arts standards • Skill Areas: Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking • Reading will include novels, short stories, poetry, plays and expository pieces • Writing will include daily journaling, guided analysis of literature, poetry, and articles; 1 major 5-paragraph essay per quarter • Listening and Speaking: oral participation is a requirement of the class, 10 points will be awarded each quarter for contributions made in class. What we will read: Short Story: “Flowers for Algernon,” by Daniel Keyes Novel: Self-selected Literary Circle novel. Short Stories: “The Tell-Tale Heart,” by Edgar Alan Poe and others from the Holt text. Nonfiction: Diary of a Young Girl, by Anne Frank Play: The Diary of Anne Frank, by Goodrich and Hackett Play: Twelfth Night, by William Shakespeare Poetry: Various authors Articles: Various authors Novel: To Kill a Mockingbird, by Harper Lee Mrs. Shope’s educational philosophy: • We are all teachers and we are all learners. • I am not the “all-knowing” and you the “empty containers” to be filled with knowledge. • Everyone brings something valuable to the class. We must connect with, and respect, each other to gain the most from this class. • My goal is not to lecture at you, but rather, to engage you in the subject matter, spark your own creativity, and encourage you to form your own opinions. • It is acceptable to disagree with the teacher, but I expect you to support you opinions. Mrs. Shope’s background and experience: • • How old were you when I began teaching at EW? 1ish. This is my 12th year. I am from the state of? Kansas My college major was ? English Literature and Language. I was the first person in my family to go to college and earn a degree. Prior to becoming a teacher I worked as a ? Lawyer I am married and have ? children and ? pets. 0, 0 If I could have any super power it would be? To fly! I and looking forward to a fun and productive year!