Adriane Genette

Room: 2015
agenette@durango.k12.co.us
(970) 259-1630 Ext 2411

Hello, students and parents. I am excited to work with you all this year! Please review the plans and expectations
together, and let me know of any comments, suggestions, ideas, etc.

Course Description: English III surveys literature from the United States, pre-Colonial to contemporary. Students
focus their writing skills on formulating and developing effective argumentative and research-based pieces, with
opportunities to craft some narrative and creative pieces as well. English III carries grammar and vocabulary studies
forward, based upon Michael Clay Thompsons series, preparing students for more sophisticated production.

First quarter goals:

Learn in a safe, productive, fun setting;
Strengthen reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills as per Colorado Academic Standards;
Read, research , and appreciate a wide selection of early American literature; and
Write and publish an insightful, powerful narrative related to our readings.

Sample major assignments:

Reading Read poems, short stories and nonfiction pieces from the U.S.s pre-colonial, 40 points
colonial, and romantic periods.

Read The Crucible, by Arthur Miller. As its a drama, we will complete all 30 points
readings and watch the play in class.

Read sample narratives related to Crucible themes. Consider each pieces 20 points
qualities as inspiration for your own writing.

Research a topic of your choice related to Americas early literature. See 30 points
choices and an assignment page in September to help you find strong sources.

Writing Keep a journal, adding an entry every time we write in class. 40 points

Write a creative narrative using point of view, unconventional plot structure, 50 points
poignant tone, and powerful style. Details will follow in late September.

Write a 2-page research outline examining how historical and social context 50 points
connect to a traditional Native American story.

Practice for and take the literature, vocabulary and grammar quizzes. 70 points

Speaking/ Present, listen to one another, and discuss the research you all choose. 40 points
Listening
Read part or all of your narrative to a group of your peers. 20 points

Viewing Watch and analyze footage of powerful speakers and story tellers. 10 points

TOTAL **Note: points are an approximation of what students can earn** 400 points

English 3 guidelines for success:

Work diligently toward publishable pieces of writing and toward a full comprehension of readings.
 Assist one another through the writing process and with reading challenges.
Share and act upon constructive criticism in a safe, honest, focused atmosphere.
Achieve success by __________________________________________________________
Classroom Expectations:
Come in on time, settle yourself, and lay out your materials.
Check our daily agenda and begin work on the warm-up as soon as class time begins.
If youre late, sign in on the clipboard. DHS tardy policy is in your handbook: warnings, parent contact and
detentions are on the way if youre late!
Silence and put away all electronics not needed for academic work. Do not allow yourself to be distracted.
Turn in all assignments to your class drawer; I will hand back your writing personally.
I will give timely, helpful feedback to each writer. Let me know what you need.
Communicate respectfully by listening to all speakers and by sharing your ideas clearly.
If you need a personal break during class time, please fill in the pass in your planner. I will sign it.
I will facilitate student interactions so that theyre constructive and respectful. Alert me about any problems.
Share your ideas and insights! Be generous!
Some of your writing and reading can be done during class, but plan to work outside of class as well.
Participate in our closer at the end of class. I will excuse you once were done.
Turn in your work on time to maintain a high grade on your Professional & Positive Behavior.
Make up work from unforeseen absences. You may have one school day for every day absent, plus one.
Bring completed work from pre-arranged absences upon your return. That way youll stay with us!
Do your own workplagiarism gets you nowhere fast.
Your professional and positive behavior will contribute to your grade in our class. (See PPB rubric)
Grades:
Grades are traditional: 89.5-100% = A; 79.5-89.4% = B; 69.5-79.4% = C; 59.5-69.4% = D.
Grades are weighted thus:
Formative Assessment 35%
Summative Assessment 35%
Professional & Positive Behavior 10%
Final Exam 20%

Sign below if you are comfortable with the above ideas. If not, lets talk soon.
Student signature: ___________________________Parent signature___________________________________
Email address (if available): ___________________________________________________________________
Additional phone numbers: ___________________________________________________________________
Comments:_________________________________________________________________________________