Course Title: Major World Literature Teacher: Mrs.

Russell Course Description

This course is designed to refine composition skills; develop literary analysis proficiency; and continue to develop vocabulary. We will examine literature from various cultures and regions in order to gain insight into those cultures, as well as reflect on our own. This course will focus mainly on literary analysis and interpretation of novels, but we will also explore other sources such as films and newspaper articles. We will begin with an investigation of culture, working towards a definition and an understanding of commonalities and differences among human cultures as represented in literature, media, and nonfiction from around the world. We will read widely and deeply and write about and research ways cultures communicate and about conflicts that sometimes arise between cultures.

Course Goals
We Will: Critically analyze texts from various cultures and explore the experiences of diverse people as expressed through literature Identify and explore themes in literary works and ask how we can relate to such themes Improve reading skills by learning to respond to literature using knowledge of literary terminology, critical thinking, and creative problem solving Hone expository, narrative, and persuasive essay writing skills in preparation for college-level English courses, with a focus on content and structure Connect abstract texts and concepts to our own identity and experience Express and challenge ideas during discussion Work both individually and collaboratively on inquiry-based projects Practice listening and communication skills to prepare us to work with a variety of types of people in diverse situations Expand vocabulary through knowledge and understanding of new words Prepare for the independent and responsible nature of education beyond high school

Major Units of Study

How do we define culture?

How do we define art? Colonialism and its effect on culture and literature Power and oppression African literature South American literature Asian literature Middle Eastern literature World Religion Literary Criticism Poetry from around the world

Major Texts
Texts may include, but are not limited to, the following: Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton House of Spirits by Isabelle Allende No One Talks to the Colonel by Gabriel Garcia Marquez Siddhartha by Herman Hesse Nectar in a Sieve by Kamala Markandaya The Thief and the Dog by Naguib Mahfouz Snowflower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See Films may include: Tsotsi Yesterday Persepolis China: Beyond the Clouds Something Like a War Skin Water Skin Waking Life

Methods of Instruction
Socratic Seminars Interactive Notebooks Cornell note taking Writing logs Project-based learning activities Daily reading quizzes Unit tests Vocabulary quizzes Essays (persuasive, expository, narrative, synthesis, research) Literature circles Art projects

Grading I do not grade on a curve. I use a traditional point system and the following scale for grading:

90-100%=A 60-69%=D

80-89% =B

70-79%=C

Below 60%=F

Approximate percentages: Essays; exams; speeches; projects Participation; discussions; daily work Homework; reading/vocabulary quizzes 50% of grade 25% of grade 25% of grade

Extra Credit: I may choose to provide extra credit opportunities, however extra credit will only be accepted from those who have all of their assignments in.
Writing Assignments and the Writing Log: You will need to bring a three-ring binder for use as a writing log. You will be expected to keep all drafts of essays in the binder. Writing logs will be turned in periodically for grading. You will also need to purchase a spiral notebook to use as a more informal notebook for daily journal assignments. Students should be prepared to turn in journals any time for grading. Late Work: Daily homework assignments are not accepted late. If you have an excused absence, your assignment is due the next school day. In the case of an excused absence, tests and quizzes must be made up within five school days. After five days, the test score will become a zero. **Note: you may not make up tests and quizzes if your absence is unexcused! Essays are not accepted late. If you are absent the day an essay is due, you must find a way to turn in the essay.

*If you honestly attempt all assignments and hand them in on time, you should have no problem passing the class. Participation and daily work are worth 25% of your grade, so regular attendance is essential!

Academic Integrity
Plagiarism is the use of someone elses WORDS or IDEAS without giving proper credit. This includes paraphrasing a source without giving due credit. Plagiarism is a serious breach of academic integrity and any assignment containing plagiarism earns a zero and counts as a missing assignment. As such, you will not be able to make up the points and will be ineligible for extra credit. If you plagiarize you will also be subject to disciplinary action including parent notification.

Class Procedures/Rules
What the world needs now is a little less love and a little more common decency. Kurt Vonnegut [plain talk: respect the purposes of teaching and learning in this classroom] Respect others: My goal is for this class to be a place where everyone feels safe, respected, and free to share their opinions and ideas. We are here to learn from one another and the material presented in this class. In order for this to occur, we all must commit to treating one another with respect. This means listen when others are talking and respond considerately with questions and comments. Absolutely no put-downs will be tolerated in this class! Negative, obscene, or profane words or actions are not allowed. Consequences for inappropriate actions will occur. Be honest: I expect you to conduct yourselves with academic and personal integrity. Be truthful in your work and your behavior. See the definition of plagiarism above. Come to class prepared and on time: You will need your book, journal, paper, and a writing utensil EVERY DAY. If you have to go back for any of the above items, you will be tardy.

Contact
Your parents and/or guardians play an integral role in your academic success. I will attempt to update parents/guardians of your progress. Significant behavioral or academic problems will result in a phone call home and/or a scheduled conference. A note to parents: I may be reached at South and am available for individual help periods 2 and 7. My phone number is 541- ext 339. Please feel free to contact me with

any questions or concerns. E-mail is the most effective means of checking on your students progress: russell_h@4j.lane.edu
cut and return

I, ___________________, understand the rules and policies of this class. I will strive for excellence, be willing to take risks, and complete the work to the best of my ability. Student Signature: ___________________ Parent Signature:_____________________ Parents desired form of communication: Phone: ____________________ E-mail:____________________ Other:_____________________ Please sign and return by 9/10