Course+Description+and+Expectations

= Honors World Lit. & Comp. – Hutchinson = = Course Description/Expectations =

==**This is a year-long course designed to challenge the most intellectually-capable sophomores in the areas of literary study, writing and grammar, vocabulary building, and critical thinking. Success in this course will ease the student’s future progress in Advanced Placement English Language, Research, and Literature during his or her junior and senior years.**==

=** Literary Works Studied: **= = =

Supplemental work: SAT and AP Language test prep
=** Grading: **=

===~ All assignments will include clear, explicit instructions that indicate which specific skills will be assessed. Models will always be made available so students can see what the expectation is for success.===

===~ Make-up work after an excused absence may earn 100% credit so long as the work is completed in a timely manner, typically 2 days after the absence. For longer papers, students who are ill for an extended period can work out a reasonable make-up schedule with Ms. Hutchinson. Work that is not completed within a reasonable time will be reduced in credit by 10% each day past the agreed-upon due date.===


 * Student Responsibilities: **

**~ Take charge of your own progress and grades. I will not do this for you.**
====**~ Be proactive! Come see me or email me if you are struggling or have questions. I will be happy to help you so long as you take the initiative for your own learning. When using email, please be polite and respectful, following letter-writing protocols. (**kate.hutchinson@d214.org**) HINT: Any emails that begin "Hey" or that do not include a sign-off with your name will not be answered!**==== ====**~ If you are absent, you should first check the Wiki site to see what you are missing, or second, check with your Homework Buddy. As a LAST RESORT, feel free to email me if you still have questions. Try to come to class prepared, but if you are unable to do so, you will have an extra day to make up work without penalty. Any work done on a day you cut class or are unexcused will not earn credit.**====

=** Teacher Responsibilities: **=

~ I will be available to help you via email throughout the day and after school, up until 9:00 p.m.
===~ I will be available for conferencing with you during periods 3, 4, 5, before school, and after school up until 3:45 p.m. (Tuesdays until 3:30). It's best to make an appointment with me in advance so that I'm sure to be at my desk.===

~ I will put lots of time and care into my teaching so that class is worth your time and stimulating to your brain. My assignments will challenge you.
===~ If you hand work in late, I may still accept it for full or reduced credit depending upon the nature of the assignment. Homework needed for class participation that day will not be accepted late. Major assignments can earn full credit if they are handed in late, but only for 1 week’s time. After 1 week, the grade will be reduced by half.=== ===~ I will consider any extenuating circumstances regarding late work or absences. Come talk to me and be honest. Possible extensions for work will be given for students who are experiencing extreme difficulties in their personal lives or undue periods of stress due to school responsibilities. YOU MUST SEE ME IN ADVANCE, however, and not several days after something is due. I may call a parent or coach to verify your reasoning.===

= = =** Other items you may be wondering about: **=

~ Films and field trips will NOT be a regular part of class, though we will attend one in-school forum, see several film excerpts, and watch 1 complete film each semester.
===~ Few will earn an A easily in this class! Even if you try your best, you may end up with a B or C. It is an honors class, so the standards are close to an AP level -- rigorous. With continued effort, your grades will improve.===