ELK GROVE HIGH

Honors English 9 Application Form

Please fill out this form and attach the required elements. Return to Kerr English teachers or to Pam Benedetti at ElkGroveHigh School, 9800 Elk Grove-Florin Road, Elk Grove, CA95624, on or before Thursday, March 30. Students who turn in late applications will be considered only if the sections have not filled.

Print legibly:

Name ______Student ID Number ______

Address ______Phone ______

______

Directions: Students must complete and submit the following items:

_____1. Application Form(this form)

_____2. Letter of Intent (See directions below.)

_____3. Photocopy of Most Recent Quarter/Trimester Grades

_____4. Student Essay (See directions below)

_____5. TwoTeacher recommendation Forms—one from your current Englishteacher and one from a teacher from another academic subject (science, social science). Give these forms to teachers immediately so they do not have to do these at the last minute. The teachers will return the forms directly to us.

Letter of Intent: Please type or write legibly in blue or black ink.

Write a letter discussing why you should be considered for placement in an Honors English class. This letter should be an example of your best work. Focus on the following aspects in the letter: (Suggested length: Approximately 500 words)

  • What do you hope to gain from taking an honors class?
  • How will you be a positive asset to the class? Do you bring special qualities to an honors class? If so, what are these qualities? Are you a good contributor to class discussion? Do you love to write? Are you creative? Are you an avid reader?
  • The teachers for Honors 9 provide very honest feedback to help students improve their writing skills. How well do you take constructive criticism? Discuss your ability to apply what you have learned to new situations. Provide an example of something you have learned this year and explain how you have applied that knowledge in a new situation, experience, or assignment.

Student Essay: Please type or write legibly in blue or black ink.

Write an essay answering the following question: Of the pieces of literature (novel, short story, or poem) you have read this year, which did you find most interesting, important, or significant? Identify the title and author of the piece and explain in detail why it was interesting, important or significant. (Did you have a personal connection to the piece? How so? Did it deal with ideas or issues of interest to you? Explain. Did it challenge or reaffirm your view(s) of life? Explain). Be sure to include a clear introduction, body, and conclusion and to explain your ideas fully using supporting evidence from your personal experience, your observation of others, or your reading. This essay should be an example of your best work. (Suggested length: 500 words)