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Ms. Moskowitz's American Literature Web Pages |
This course is a chronological survey of American literature. It is intended to introduce you to some of the major themes and writers in American literature. We will read and discuss a wide variety of American literature from the Colonial period to the start of the twentieth century. While we may study certain writers such as Thoreau in some depth, we will only make a brief acquaintance with many others. I hope, however, that you will come away from this course with an appreciation of the diversity of American literature as well as a sense of some of its enduring themes and issues.
Course Requirements:
* Reading Homework -- Much of our reading from the anthology will be done in class. Your daily homework reading will come from important and representative works that we will look at in more depth. Plan to read 25-35 pages every night. During the week there will be quizzes and impromptu writing assignments based on the reading.
* Writing Assignments -- I will assign 2-3 formal papers each quarter. Although there will be some choice of topics, these papers will generally be short critical, analytical responses to the reading. I am interested in hearing your own original ideas and reactions to the reading. I urge you to avoid using secondary critical sources (and certainly avoid Cliff Notes, etc.). Instead, I encourage you to test out your ideas in class discussion, to ask lots of questions, and to conference with me outside of class about your papers.
* Tests -- In addition to these papers, I plan to give one test in October, one in December, and the final examination in January. These tests will cover material read and discussed in class so it is essential that you take clear, thorough notes.
* Literary Terms -- We will review the literary terms you have encountered in past English classes using the "Definitions of Literary Terms" section at the end of your textbook on pages 799-807. Each week we will have a brief quiz on one page from that section. These terms will be useful to us in discussing the books we read.
* Attendance & Tardiness -- Come to class on-time and prepared to read, write, discuss, and ask questions. I expect you to be in your seat and ready to begin class when the bell rings. Read and follow the school's attendance policy found in your student handbook. Any unexcused absence will exclude you from participation in co-curricular activities that school day. If you are late, please sign the late book, otherwise you risk being marked absent. I will not correct your attendance at a later date unless we can verify your presence in class via the late book. Excessive tardiness will not be tolerated. The third time you are late to class you will receive a detention.
* Materials & Books -- Bring your English notebook, pen or pencil, and whatever book or other material we are using to class. Take care of the books which are loaned to you. I need them back in good condition. You will be charged for damage or replacement costs.
* Courtesy & Respect -- I try to treat all my students with respect and consideration. I expect you to behave in the same way towards everyone who enters this classroom (students, teachers, substitutes, school staff, guests, etc.). Students are expected to be respectful, tolerant, cooperative, and courteous. Some ways to demonstrate these qualities are by listening attentively to others, giving everyone a chance to participate, encouraging each other, and refraining from physical or verbal intimidation and insults.
* Plagiarism & Cheating -- I value those people who are honest and who make their best effort, even if that effort does not immediately result in success. I respect people who are forthright about their struggles and their mistakes. On the other hand, cheating and plagiarism in any form will not be tolerated. Plagiarism is stealing the ideas, words, or work of another. It is a form of cheating and the school's rules will be enforced.
* Homework & Make-up Work -- If you anticipate a problem in meeting a deadline it is your responsibility to talk to me ahead of time. I am not unreasonable but don't take advantage. You are also responsible for finding out what work you missed due to an absence. Missing assignments receive a zero. Late assignments will receive a lower grade.
Grading Policy -- Your quarterly grade will be based on a point system. Your average will be computed by dividing the total points earned by the total possible number of points per quarter. I will tell you how much each assignment is worth but generally you may count on the following: major papers and tests are worth 100 points; shorter essays and projects are worth 40-50 points; quizzes are worth 10-30 points; short homework assignments are worth 10-20 points.
The final grade for the course will be a weighted average of the two quarters and the final exam (probably 40% - 40% - 20%).
Class participation is also very important and will be a part of your grade -- satisfactory class participation means coming to class on time with the necessary materials, completing your homework, behaving in a courteous and attentive manner during class, and contributing energetically and consistently to class discussion and small group activities. Your energy and ideas are essential to making this class a success.
Extra Help -- My conference blocks this semester are A, D, F and G. You can usually find me in the English Dept. Workroom (H-13) or the SSERC. Please feel free to make an appointment with me during one of my conference blocks or after school.
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Ms. Moskowitz's American Literature Web Pages |