American Literature Syllabus
November 4, 2008
Room 306
Course Description
In this class, we will focus on American literature. Using the readings, we will explore the role of the individual in shaping history. To this end, the students will work on a variety of projects that will help them fix their place in the world and give them the tools needed to tackle the future.
Objectives
We will follow the California Content Standards for Grade 12 as well as those of the San Francisco Unified School District. Students will study the short story, novel, non-fiction, drama and poetry. There will be a concentration on the development of written and oral communication skills. Activities will include class discussions, essays, creative writing, and spoken word presentations.
Curriculum
Major Texts and Reading Materials (subject to change)
Of Mice and Men- John Steinbeck
Slaughterhouse 5- Kurt Vonnegut
Catcher in the Rye- JD Salinger
In addition to the above, there will be supplemental readings, including non-fiction and poetry.
Students will also be expected to read books for outside reading projects. Although the students will select these books themselves, the instructor must approve them.
Weeks 1-6
Readings from The Language of Literature
Of Mice and Men
Weeks 7-12
Readings from The Language of Literature
Slaughterhouse 5
Weeks 13- 18
Readings from The Language of Literature
Catcher in the Rye
Class Expectations
You are expected to show respect at all times.
You are expected to attend class everyday and to arrive on time.
You are expected to come to class prepared for the day. This includes having the necessary notebooks, texts, pens etc.
You are expected to actively participate in the class.
You are expected to follow the rules and regulations of Galileo Academy of Science and Technology and the San Francisco Unified School District.
Students will not prevent others by participating by shouting out answers or putting anyone down. Any behavior that disrupts the learning environment, such as horseplay, teasing or side talk will not be tolerated.
Absences and Tardiness
To be successful in this class, you must attend every day and must always be on time. Please bring a written note from a parent/guardian if you are absent, and get an official excuse from the attendance office.
Grading Policy
All work including class participation will be assigned points. Grades will be determined by cumulative points on the following scale:
A 100-90
B 89-80
C 79-65
D 64-55
F 54-0
Late and Make-up Work
All work is to be completed on time. No late work will be accepted. If you have an excused absence, you are required to make up the work you missed. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to get the missed assignments.
