9th Grade English SyllabusMrs. Cook in Room 1606

Welcome to 9th Grade English! This course is a survey of multi-genre works to examine essential questions. Our class will be expected to read a variety of works on a daily basis and complete a variety of writing projects to build a foundation in reading comprehension, written expression, vocabulary, and grammar. These works will help to build an understanding of literary terms, analysis, and critique.

Course Goals (aligned with the State of Virginia SOL Standards) Standard 9.1 The student will make planned oral presentations independently and in small groups. Standard 9.2 The student will produce, analyze, and evaluate auditory, visual, and written media messages. Standard 9.3 The student will apply knowledge of word origins, derivations, and figurative language to extend vocabulary development in

authentic texts. Standard 9.4 The student will read, comprehend, and analyze a variety of literary texts including narratives, narrative nonfiction, poetry,

and drama. Standard 9.5 The student will read and analyze a variety of nonfiction texts. Standard 9.6 The student will develop narrative, expository, and persuasive writings for a variety of audiences and purposes. Standard 9.7 The student will self- and peer-edit writing for correct grammar, capitalization, punctuation, spelling, sentence structure,

and paragraphing. Standard 9.8 The student will use print, electronic databases, online resources, and other media to access information to create a

research product.Major Works

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare (in textbook)The Odyssey by Homer (in textbook)To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Speak by Laurie Halse AndersonThe Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon

Required Supplies A 3-subject notebook with perforated edges (to bring to every class) A composition notebook (to be left in the classroom) A sturdy folder to hold work

Class Expectations: The following expectations are for everyone’s safety and comfort. RESPECT all people and property in the classroom. ADVOCATE for academic and social concerns. Be absolutely honest in all academic and social matters. MOTIVATE. Get involved in classroom activities and discussions. Be in your seat on time, with your materials, ready to learn. SERVE. Be of service to classmates and the greater classroom community. Make a sincere effort to work and learn.

Attendance and Make-Up Policy: If you are absent, your work is due the class period after you return. If you do not have your work, 10% of the total points earned will be subtracted for each class day that an assignment is late. After five class days, the assignment receives 50% of the points earned. After five class days, the material may be turned in for discussion or remediation but will not be accepted for points.

Retakes and Reassessments: Mastery is defined as the attainment of 84% of the assessed material. Therefore, students receiving an 83% or lower qualify for one retake per unit exam. Students receive the higher of the two grades, with the highest grade possible being an 84% on a retake. Remediation must occur before a reassessment takes place. This is not a gatekeeper exercise designed to keep students from re-assessing; instead it is a necessary step to prepare the student for the re-assessment. Remediation and reassessment must take place before 2 weeks have elapsed from the date of the original assessment OR by the end of the next unit of study when appropriate.

Questions and Policies: Our class fully supports and follows the mission and policies of Riverside High School. Respect, Advocate, Motivate, and Serve should be a part of every learning community. If you ever have a question about any classroom information or policy, please ask. Curiosity is valued, and “why” is an important question.

Contacting Mrs. Cook: You may contact Mrs. Cook by email at stephanie.cook@lcps.org or by the school phone at (703) 554-8900. It may also be helpful to view to information listed on Mrs. Cook’s faculty page located on the Riverside High School site.

I look forward to an outstanding year together!