9th Grade English Disclosure

Ms. Whitesides – Room 147

(801) 476-5220

http://blog.wsd.net/jewhitesides

Course Description and Objectives: This course expands on developing proficiency in the mechanics of composition, usage, vocabulary, spelling, critical thinking, speaking and listening skills. An English background will help you find connections in reading material, and work well with others. Thus, offering better jobs and salary one day. It is aligned with the common core curriculum.

Class Supplies: One planner, one thin portfolio folder with a three-ring binder, college ruled paper, pencils, pens (red), multiple highlighters, 1-2 reams index cards, a personal reading book based on individual reading requirement, and all assignments.

Grading: Grades will be based on a variety of assignments; including writing, discussion responses, outside reading, quizzes, test, and participation.

Film Use: Occasionally, we may view clips and or movies to illustrate a concept. Clips will be carefully chosen for their relevance and will be short. Romeo and Juliet, Hound of the Baskervilles, The Outsiders, The Odyssey, Amazing Grace, Anna and the King, The Blind Side, Chariots of Fire, Dead Poets Society, Emma, Invictus, Les Miserables, Narnia Films, Little Women, are some examples.

PG-rated short clips and district approved films that are not listed may also be shown. We may also view and compare the film productions of books we read in class.

Digital Media Devices: Digital media devicesmay notbe used except during specific times as announced by the teacher. Otherwise, phones/devices will be confiscated by the teacher and may be given to the office. Chromebook Policy:We have a classroom set of Chromebooks in class this year. All school computer and internet usage rules apply. Furthermore, any behavior by a student that results or could potentially result in damage to or loss of a Chromebook or the charging cart will lead to consequences including but not limited to usage prevention, citizenship drop, and financial liability.

Grading Scale: Current grades will be posted weekly.

94 – 100% A 70 – 72% C

90 – 93% A- 66 – 69% C-

85 – 89% B+ 63 – 65% D+

81 – 84% B 60 – 62% D

77 – 80% B- 57 - 59% D-

73 – 76% C+ Below 57 F

Citizenship: Citizenship grades are based on a combination of tardies and not following classroom guidelines.

·  H No tardies, honorable behavior, always prepared, little or no late work, collaboration skills, and open to learning positively.

·  S 1-2 tardies, good behavior, prepared, punctual most of the time.

·  N 4 tardies, behavior needs improvement, unprepared often.

·  U 6 or more tardies, unacceptable behavior, continuously unprepared.

Makeup Work: Students have the same number of days they were absent plus one day to makeup work assigned during their absence. If a student is absent the day a previously assigned assignment is due, the assignment is due upon the student’s return. Students are responsible for requesting missed work.

Late Work: Assignments are due on the due date by the end of the day. Scores on all late assignments will be deducted by 20%. Assignments due prior to midterm cannot be made up once midterm grades have been posted unless arrangements are made ahead of time with the teacher. The cut-off date at the end of the term will be strictly adhered to.

Redo/Retake Policy: A student may retake a test if he or she receives a failing grade AND meets any other conditions set forth by the teacher for said test. Projects and large assignments can re-done during the quarter to achieve the optimum grade; however, on particular homework assignments a late grade is still given. One of the essay assignments will be revolving until mastery is obtained. Multiple chances, but no grade posted until basic mastery is met.

Classroom Policies: ROAR

R: Respectful to others, resourceful

O: On time and prepared, on task

A: Actively engaged in learning, participates in class activities

R: Resilience

*The teacher reserves the right to adjust the policies and requirements explained in this disclosure to meet the needs of individual students.

Go to Rocky Mountain Junior High - Ms. Whitesides Blog. Click Disclosure/ English/then “Sign Here.”

Or Tangibly sign here and hand in to rack on table to the right as you walk through the door:

Print Student’s Name:______

Student Signature: ______Period:______

Parent’s Signature: ______

Date: ______