Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Syllabus
Ms. Dalia | Room 5137
Email: daliab@issaquah.wednet.edu
Voicemail: 425.837.4857
Website: msdalia.weebly.com
There is really
nothing more to
say except why.
But since why is
difficult to handle,
Course Overview
In this course, students focus on refining analytical skills in reading, writing, and
thinking. Through a study of American literature, students examine a wide
variety of themes. Students further develop skills in vocabulary, grammar,
mechanics and usage, oral communication, presentation, and research skills
through analytical essays, poetry, narratives, and debate.
Note: 2016 is a presidential election year. Given that we will be studying
American Literature, which also emphasizes the study of rhetoric, we will be
examining the current political landscape, including presidential nominees
speeches and agendas, in relation to materials related to the founding fathers.
Some of the texts we read during this time might spark debate. As a member of
the classroom community students will be expected to demonstrate a high level
of respect and objective consideration of all perspectives. Please feel free to
discuss with me any concerns you have at any time!
Course Texts
Course Expectations
Required Materials
1
Grading Policy
Your course grade will reflect the standard grading percentages. I will round
your grade up if you are in 0.50 % of the next grade level. There will be no
exceptions to this rule.
93-100%
90-92%
A-
87-89%
B+
83-87%
B
80-82%
B-
78-79%
C+
73-77%
C
70-72%
C-
68-69%
D+
60-67%
D
0-59%
Grades in this course are divided among four categories outlined below:
40 % Assessments: Writing assignments/process, projects
30 % Classwork/Homework: In-class activities and homework assignments
15 % Quizzes: Reading, vocab, and grammar quizzes
15 % Participation/Organization:
Participation: I define participation broadly to include physical and mental
presence in the classroom along with meaningful contributions to class
discussions. This can be demonstrated verbally or in writing through
thoughtful commentary, questions, discussions, etc. Students will receive a
holistic participation grade each month. I deduct points for not
participating (texting during discussions/lectures, sleeping in class, doing
other class work, etc.)
Organization: You are required to maintain a binder notebook dedicated to
American Literature throughout the year. I will randomly conduct
notebook checks for a grade 10 times each semester. Refer to the handout
on Notebook Checks for details.
Note: Extra credit is extremely rare, so dont rely on it to boost your grade. I
might offer some extra credit each semester to the entire class.
Absences
Unexcused Absences: If you have an unexcused absence, you will receive no
credit for work done in class. You will also receive no credit for work due on the
day and have no opportunity to make up the missed work.
2
Missing/Late Work
Late Work: Grade earned is reduced by 10% for each class period when the work
is turned in at any point after it is collected. No late work will be accepted after
five school days of the due date. Please be aware there are assignments that will
not be accepted late for any reason. This includes group projects or
essays/writing assignments that can be emailed.
I hold the right to set an earlier or later due date for an assignment in
negotiation with the student given prior communication and/or extenuating
circumstances.
The Fine Print: I understand that there will be times during the semester where
you will feel overwhelmed with school work and will need extra time to complete
assignments. For this reason, you will receive two late passes each semester.
Each pass will provide you with an additional week to turn in your work without
any penalty. You may choose to use a late pass on any individual assignment in
the assessment or classwork/homework category. Use these wisely!
Remind.com
Technology
I have a Bring Your Own Device policy. Technology is a powerful tool that
enhances learning. I will incorporate a variety of interactive technologies
throughout the year where you will be encouraged to use your cell phone, iPad,
or other personal electronic device to engage in these activities. If you do not
have access to a personal electronic device, please communicate with me ASAP
so that I can make necessary accommodations to help you succeed in this
course.
That said, your personal electronic device may not be used for personal use in
class (texting, email, social media, etc.). Remember, such behavior will directly
impact your participation grade and result in confiscation of your device for the
class period.
A Note on Plagiarism
3
Please refer to the student handbook for specifics about Libertys academic
integrity policy. Our department adheres strictly to this policy, so please do not
be tempted to plagiarize.
First instance of plagiarism: No credit for assignment and referral to
administration
Second instance of plagiarism: No credit for the course.
___ Dropbox
___ printer
___ Twitter
Note: If at any time a computer and/or the internet is not accessible, please let
me know right away so I can make sure we can work together to accommodate
assignments