Honors English 11 is an analytical forum in which we will thematically examine the movements of American literature which have been framed by political and social history. We will thoroughly examine the overarching idea for the year,
The American Dream.
Outside reading and writing will be required for this course. Regular grammar and vocabulary exercises will also be integral parts of each unit. There will be at least one research paper assigned this year along with several projects, essays, group activities, and oral presentations.
Our class objectives will be strictly aligned with the Standards of Learning (SOL) curriculum and will help prepare you for your
SOL End of Course Test. / Class Rules
- Be seated and on task when the bell rings.
- Bring all materials to class everyday unless otherwise instructed.
- Raise your hand. Simple. Classic.
- Show respect to yourself and others by listening.
- We will work from bell to bell. Teacher dismisses the class, not the bell. Please don’t “pack up” early.
- Be aware of, and accountable for, the school rules regarding behavior, attendance, and tardies.
- Take RESPONSIBILITY for what YOU do.
- Be open-minded. Be creative. Be yourself.
Materials
- Three-ring binder with loose leaf paper
- Spiral Notebook/Composition Book
- Pens and at least one #2 pencil
- Assigned textbook and/or novel
- OLHS Student Planner
- zip/thumb drive
- post-it notes/flags
You will each be responsible for keeping a works in progress (WIP) folder. These folders will be used to store all of the pieces of writing you develop during the year. The folders will be kept in the classroom at all times unless specific permission is granted to take them home for your parents to see.
At the end of each semester, you will select pieces from your folder to revise, edit, and include as a part of your final portfolio. An electronic portfolio will showcase your growth as a writer.
Essays & Assignments
All essays must be typed, or in blue or black pen. If typed, papers must use MLA format (12 pt font, standard block letters, one-inch margins, and double-spacing.)
It is important to realize that this course will be reading intensive. Reading assignments are homework and will often be quizzed the next day. Keep up!
Late work will NOT be accepted. It is your responsibility to complete assignments by the due date. Computer problems will not be an excuse for late work. I encourage you to be prepared so we can divert issues before instructional time. / Absence Policy & Make-Up Work
It is your responsibility to check the “Make-Up” folder upon your return from an absence. You will have until the following class period to make up missed work for full credit. You can also check for missed work, hw, etc. on the class website.
If you are absent on the day an assignment is due, you will be expected to turn in the assignment on the day of your return to class. ***Students who are on the campus of OLHS for any portion of the day must turn in their work even though they may not be attending English class (i.e. field trip, early release, late arrival, etc.)
If you know ahead of time that you will be absent from class, please let me know so that we can arrange for missed work!
VBCPS Grading Scale
A Excellent 4.5-5
B Good 3.5-4.4
C Average 2.5-3.4
D Poor 1.5-2.4
E Failing 0-1.4
/ Grading
I will be using a 5-point grading scale this year. 5=A, 4=B, 3=C, 2=D, 1=E, 0=did not attempt. Assignments will be weighted depending on the length, importance, complexity, etc.
I will generally following the following guidelines:
Classwork & Quizzes will count 1-2 times.
Tests, Essays, & Major Assignments: will count 3-4 times.
I will announce ahead of time the amount of weight each assignment will hold. / English Overtime
In order to aid in the success of all students, those who repeatedly fail to complete homework, class work, papers, projects, etc. will be issued “English Overtime.” This will give students the chance to make-up missing work for partial credit. English Overtime is not designed to be “mean” but rather to help students reach their full potential. Also, students who are in need of extra assistance may certainly attend these sessions as well. “English Overtime” dates will be schedule and announced as needed.
Classroom Management and stuff…
Tardies will be handled in accordance with the tardiness procedure outlined in your OLHS student planner. You must be in your seat when the bell rings, or you will be counted tardy. If you are late to class, sign-in at the Attendance Folder and leave any slips you may have so that I can update my attendance records!
Be sure to use the restroom, go to your locker, etc. before coming to class. You may not leave the classroom during instructional time, unless it is an emergency.
Students will be expected to clean up after themselves, making sure to avoid leaving personal items and trash in the classroom.
Cell phones are strictly prohibited. Once sighted, school officials and teachers are permitted to confiscate cell phones, which will be held for a period of no less than 24 hours. Parents must then make arrangements to reclaim phones. Just turn them off!
I will strictly adhere to the consequences outlined in the student code of conduct regarding behavior. This info can be found in your OLHS Student Planner. / Teacher Note & Contact Info
Tasha M. Stevenson
(757) 648-5550 ext. 77984
I am looking forward to working with each of you and hope that this year will be successful in every way. I encourage your questions and feedback in order to make this class an exciting and supportive environment. Please feel free to always ask for assistance, as I am here to help you in any way that I can!
I can best be contacted by e-mail at .
Let’s have a GREAT year!
Ms. Stevenson’s Schedule (2009-2010)
1A English 11- Room 132
2A English 11- Room 132
3A Planning- Eng Office (207)
4A English 11- Room 132 / 1B Hon. English 11- Room 125
2B Planning- English Office
3B Hon. English 11- Room 125
4B Study/Lunch- Room 126
WIKI WHAT?!
For updated class information including homework, assignments, handouts, resources, etc.
Check our class website:
Honors English 11Ms. Stevenson2009-2010