American Literature – English III Syllabus

2018-2019
Teacher: Ms. J. Carlos
Conference Periods: 1st (8:45-9:30am) and 8th (1:45-2:30pm)
Room #: F215
Email: jmcarlos@bisd.us

Textbooks:
Shea, Renee H, et al. Foundations of Language and Literature: For Honors and Pre-AP English

Courses. BFW, 2018.

Course Objective: Students will synthesize rhetorical arguments using comprehensive writing
skills and develop their own arguments through persuasion, research, and rhetorical analysis.
Students will also interpret literature and analyze its effects on society and the self.

Course Description: The purpose of this course is to aid in approaching mastery of the English
language. In this course, students will read American literature from all American literary period,
including but not limited to pre-colonial, post-colonial, and contemporary authors/poets, to build
their language and critical thinking skills. Review of such literature will allow students to
explore cultural and historical viewpoints. Meeting Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills is the
focus of the course, also adhering to the ELPS and STAAR standards.

Grading Policy: 40% Daily work; 60% Tests and Projects

Daily Work: Daily work assignments consist of in-class activities, quizzes, homework, and
journals.

Tests and Projects: Tests and projects include unit/chapter exams, literature exams, class
projects, research projects, and essays.

Reading Selections: Literature texts cover a variety of genres and modes. They are subject to
change and include but are not limited to “Prayer to the Pacific,” “I Have Killed the Deer,” Sons
of Thunder, Touching Spirit Bear, and The Great Gatsby.

Supplies: composition notebook, pens (blue or black), pencils, and paper.

Absences: Students are highly encouraged to attend class. Excessive unexcused absences will
result in a loss of credit. Please note that missed instruction can never be made up in the most
comprehensive way that original instruction is delivered.

Make-Up Work: When a student is absent from class, he or she is responsible for getting all of
the assignments missed and completing them as stated by BISD policy. Students have the same
number of days they were absent to complete and turn in assignments.
Late Work: Late work will be accepted on a case-by-case basis.

Academic Integrity: All instances of cheating or academic dishonesty shall result in the grade of
an automatic 0. No exceptions!

Classroom Rules:
1. Show respect to others. Do not interrupt or talk over other students. Do not insult other
students. Absolutely no bullying will be permitted! Foul language disturbs other students
as well as the teachers; therefore, no foul language will be permitted. Do not touch your
classmates or their property. Do not touch your teacher or her property. All students must
maintain a distance of at least two feet from the teacher at all times. No exceptions.
Student are also not permitted to enter the teacher’s desk space.
2. Show respect to yourself. All violations off dress code and the foul language rule will be
considered a strike against your own dignity and a violation of this rule.
3. Follow directions. As situations arise, new rules and regulations may be necessary.