Advanced Sophomore English

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Mythology
Bible as Literature
Antigone/Prince of Egypt
Julius Caesar
Things Fall Apart
Power of One
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Syllabus

September 5th , 2006

Dear Parents and Students of Advanced Sophomore English,

Without knowing the force of words, it is impossible to know men. -- Confucius

Advanced Sophomore English is all about the force of words, the power of language. This class serves as a preparation for the 11th grade Advanced Placement class, and as such involves a rigorous schedule of writing and reading. Our main focus will be writing, and much of our writing will be practicing and refining the academic essay form. We will compliment our writing with a study of classic and world literature (please see the overview of class texts). Our discussions and explorations will reveal eternal themes - such as friendship, heroism, betrayal, individualism and responsibility- as well as contemporary issues, such as colonialism and the role of the leader in the state.

Our class will involve writing, reading, discussion, presentations, and some grammar/vocabulary work. Given the rigor of this class, students should expect to have some homework every night , and that homework will contribute to their grade. Please review carefully the class policies for grading, make-up work, late work, attendance and academic honesty.

Additionally, to be prepared for this class, students should have the following:

  • a 3-ring binder dedicated to this class to keep materials organized.
  • two spiral or tape-bound notebooks for the reader's and writer's journals for this class.
  • index cards (3x5" or 4x6") to use for research and study flashcards.
  • multiple writing utensils, including at least one pen (black or blue) for final drafts and tests.

Some optional materials that may be useful (but are not required to have) include highlighters, post-it notes, a computer disk and materials (markers, paper, etc) for creative projects.

I would like to offer a line of open communication between school and home. If you should have any questions, please feel free to leave a message for me at the high school (at 965-9790 ext. 2242) or to email me (cgilbert@battle-creek.k12.mi.us). I check my voicemail and email each afternoon and will try to respond within 24 hours. Each day's homework, as well as our reading schedules and writing deadlines , are available online at www.cjgilbert.net. Additionally, I am also available to meet by appointment.

I look forward to our year together!

Sincerely,

C.J. Gilbert