Instructor: Mr. Schwartz
Textbook: Elements of Literature
Course Description:
The study of English is the study, in part, of reading and writing.
How do great authors move us as readers? How do we learn to move readers
in our own writing? To that end, we will spend much of our time examining
short stories, plays, poetry, non-fiction as well as writing in a variety
of modes–-expressive, creative, informative, persuasive. Tolstoy, a Russian
writer from the turn of century, remarked that uninterestingness is a disease.
I work hard to make this class interesting for all of us. I expect you
to try as well. Music, films and other audio-visual aids will be used to
enhance and enliven our efforts.
Required Class Materials:
1) A three ring notebook to keep handouts and class activities
2) Pen & Paper
3) Belief in yourself and your future
4) Responsibility–-take control of your life. Don’t shrink from your
goals. Don’t allow anyone or anything to rob you of the education you’ll
need to make a life for
yourself.
Grading Policy:
Formal writing projects 35%
Tests/Quizzes 30%
Attendance, Behavior, Class participation, Homework 35%
Coach Class:
Regular Coach class will be held every Tuesday from 3:30 to 4:00, or
any other day of the week if you make an appointment with me.
Non-negotiables:
Respect. This classroom will be a safe environment for ALL students
and that means freedom to think and ponder and make mistakes, all of which
are part of earning and growing. No one will embarrass or insult
others students or interfere with other students’ learning.