11th & 12th Grade Composition

Composition – 11^th & 12^th

2018-2019

Course Description

We will begin this course by reviewing the rules of grammar and rhetoric. The application of this knowledge will be evidenced in the composition of two college scholarship application essays and the completion of two ACT English practice tests. Following this review we will delve into the realm of Elegant Essays in order to better understand the format and organization of different types of essays. Weekly quizzes will be administered, and we will put these concepts to work in the writing of both a descriptive and a persuasive essay. Finally, we will complete a comprehensive research project. This process will include an exploratory research proposal and essay, an outline, an annotated bibliography, a researched argument proposal and essay, and a project presentation.

Expectations & Guidelines

1. You and your parent(s) are expected to read this syllabus in its entirety, sign it, and come to the first day of class with it signed and in your binder.
2. We will foster a respectful learning environment and be kind to each other when commenting or peer reviewing work.
3. You will bring your Composition binder, homework, and writing utensil to every class meeting.
4. All handouts and returned essays must be kept in an organized manner in the Composition binder.
5. You are required to write and submit your own original work. Paraphrasing, quoting, or summarizing other sources without proper MLA citations will not be tolerated. Duplication of your own work without prior instructor approval is also a form of academic dishonesty. Plagiarism or cheating will result in a zero for the assignment. More than one instance of plagiarism or cheating will result in a referral to the Board and may lead to expulsion from the course.
6. Due dates are clearly stated on the syllabus. You are required to turn in paper copies of your work on the date due. I will not accept emailed copies without prior communication with your parent.
7. Late work will be penalized one letter grade per week. Missing work without a parent’s verbal excuse will result in a zero for that assignment. Failing to turn in work more than 25% of the time will result in a referral to the Board.
8. If we have a class cancellation or I miss a week, a revised syllabus will be emailed to you prior to the next week; otherwise, follow the attached schedule.
9. If you have any questions during the week, please text or email me. I will respond as soon as my schedule allows.

Required Materials

Composition Binder

The Elegant Essay Writing Lessons Student Book            978-0-9779860-1-9            

MLA: The Easy Way                                                   978-1935356523               

The Complete Guide to ACT English, 3^rd Edition            978-0997517880