This course entails the preliminary study of English Literature, that of major classical British authors dating
from Old English to Contemporary English. However, it will expand to other areas in literature. The course
will begin with a fraction of World Literature to introduce particular themes that will remain the basis of
class discussions. Themes already discussed in English III will resurface in order to supplement and enhance
the knowledge already acquired. That is, you will learn a few things, but you will also apply what you
already know.
from Old English to Contemporary English. However, it will expand to other areas in literature. The course
will begin with a fraction of World Literature to introduce particular themes that will remain the basis of
class discussions. Themes already discussed in English III will resurface in order to supplement and enhance
the knowledge already acquired. That is, you will learn a few things, but you will also apply what you
already know.
Standards for this course are:
1. The student uses the reading process effectively.
2. The student builds meaning from a wide range of texts.
3. The student uses the writing process effectively.
4. The student writes to communicate ideas and information effectively.
5. The student uses listening strategies effectively.
6. The student uses viewing strategies effectively.
7. The student uses speaking strategies effectively.
8. The student understands the nature of language.
9. The student understands the power of language.
10. The student understands the common features of a variety of literary forms.
11. The student responds critically to fiction, nonfiction,poetry, and drama.
1. The student uses the reading process effectively.
2. The student builds meaning from a wide range of texts.
3. The student uses the writing process effectively.
4. The student writes to communicate ideas and information effectively.
5. The student uses listening strategies effectively.
6. The student uses viewing strategies effectively.
7. The student uses speaking strategies effectively.
8. The student understands the nature of language.
9. The student understands the power of language.
10. The student understands the common features of a variety of literary forms.
11. The student responds critically to fiction, nonfiction,poetry, and drama.
| English IV/English Literature Ms. Celeste Reyes/ Classroom 857/ telephone: 754-323-0350 ext. 3249/ email: Celeste.Reyes-Ehrlich@browardschools.com or languagearts@teacher.com Office Hours: By Appointment. |
Materials Needed EVERY day in class:
1. One (1) Mead composition notebook
No Spiral notebooks!
2. black pen, blue pen, pencils, etc.
3. USB jumpdrive (thumbdrive)
4. a 2-inch ring-binder
5. dividers for binder (with Subjects: Class Notes, Handouts, Vocabulary,
Homework, Worksheets/Quizzes)
6. Post-It notes 4" x 4"
7. index cards (preferably 4 x 6)
8. coloring pencils
9. loose-leaf paper
10. One highlighter
1. One (1) Mead composition notebook
No Spiral notebooks!
2. black pen, blue pen, pencils, etc.
3. USB jumpdrive (thumbdrive)
4. a 2-inch ring-binder
5. dividers for binder (with Subjects: Class Notes, Handouts, Vocabulary,
Homework, Worksheets/Quizzes)
6. Post-It notes 4" x 4"
7. index cards (preferably 4 x 6)
8. coloring pencils
9. loose-leaf paper
10. One highlighter
The Language of Literature -MacDougal Littell
Writer's Inc.
Works of Literature:
Beowulf
Macbeth-William Shakespeare
Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
"Six Feet of the Country" by Nadine Gordimer
"A Hanging" by George Orwell
"Words and Behavior" by Aldous Huxley
"Writing as an Act of Hope" by Isabel Allende
Nineteen-Eightyfour by George Orwell
Note: Classroom texts will be lent to you,and you must return them at the end of
the course, or you will not receive credit for your work.
Writer's Inc.
Works of Literature:
Beowulf
Macbeth-William Shakespeare
Canterbury Tales by Geoffrey Chaucer
"Six Feet of the Country" by Nadine Gordimer
"A Hanging" by George Orwell
"Words and Behavior" by Aldous Huxley
"Writing as an Act of Hope" by Isabel Allende
Nineteen-Eightyfour by George Orwell
Note: Classroom texts will be lent to you,and you must return them at the end of
the course, or you will not receive credit for your work.
Classroom Norms
Although classroom rules will be delineated, these are some basic guidelines that I expect you to adhere
to when you are in the classroom and on fieldtrips. Please know that there are consequences for a
violation of any of these rules.
1. Listen and respect others while they speak and work. Maintain decorum.
2. Be in class on time. Know what is being assigned.
3. Come prepared. Log on to http://www.reyeseng.org for the Agenda if you are absent. There will be
a binder in class for you to find out what was assigned during your absence. This binder will also contain
any handouts missed. I cannot re-teach a class.
4. Homework will be assigned at least three times a week.
5. Ask questions if you don't know. Let me know about your ideas, situations, problems, and/or
concerns.
6. Adhere to school policies and Code of Student Conduct (CoSC).
7. Under NO Circumstances will CELLPHONES be allowed in class. (Note: This is a very delicate
issue and this is your first warning.)
8. Have an email address and advise on personal conflicting schedules, illnesses and/or allergies in a
timely manner or have your parent call.
9. Upon returning to class after an absence, ensure that you review the class binder to gather
information, assignments, and/or requirements. Check with a peer for any notes that you could have
taken. You are responsible for your own work. Doctor’s notes may be required for an absence, so
please be ready to furnish it.
10. No drinking, no eating, no chewing in class.
Agenda (Classroom Structure):
I am strict on routine (but, like you, I like variety and get bored of performing the same actions day after
day); we will essentially work daily without interruption on a number of different tasks. Ninety minutes
lends itself to about five different tasks per day.
Sample Agenda:
1) Warm-Up for 10 minutes.
2) Stamina Reading and Writing Workshops Tests and quizzes will be announced in advanced, but
some quizzes may be given unannounced to challenge your capabilities.
3) Class will vary on either textbook work, writing/reading workshops, depending on the depth of the
topic. (20 minutes)
4) Cool down, summarize, recap and show what you've learned. (10 minutes)
5) Homework, or Reinforcement
Our course is a daily 90-minute class of distinctive Language Arts lessons that implement the standards
and mandates of Broward County School Board. You will be tested in different ways to determine how
well you have engaged and understood the material (see Course Rubric). Also, you will be prepared to
not only to pass all standardized tests, but to master the skills necessary for future work. Class tests
and quizzes may include electronic, written, or performance assessments. In the midst of all this, you
will be observed for classroom participation and character (please make sure you understand the Code
of Student Conduct (CoSC) very well).
Assignments:
All assignments are due on the specified date. The teacher reserves the right to change or
modify assignments within reasonable time to notify to the student. If you are absent, classes are your
responsibility, not mine.
Although classroom rules will be delineated, these are some basic guidelines that I expect you to adhere
to when you are in the classroom and on fieldtrips. Please know that there are consequences for a
violation of any of these rules.
1. Listen and respect others while they speak and work. Maintain decorum.
2. Be in class on time. Know what is being assigned.
3. Come prepared. Log on to http://www.reyeseng.org for the Agenda if you are absent. There will be
a binder in class for you to find out what was assigned during your absence. This binder will also contain
any handouts missed. I cannot re-teach a class.
4. Homework will be assigned at least three times a week.
5. Ask questions if you don't know. Let me know about your ideas, situations, problems, and/or
concerns.
6. Adhere to school policies and Code of Student Conduct (CoSC).
7. Under NO Circumstances will CELLPHONES be allowed in class. (Note: This is a very delicate
issue and this is your first warning.)
8. Have an email address and advise on personal conflicting schedules, illnesses and/or allergies in a
timely manner or have your parent call.
9. Upon returning to class after an absence, ensure that you review the class binder to gather
information, assignments, and/or requirements. Check with a peer for any notes that you could have
taken. You are responsible for your own work. Doctor’s notes may be required for an absence, so
please be ready to furnish it.
10. No drinking, no eating, no chewing in class.
Agenda (Classroom Structure):
I am strict on routine (but, like you, I like variety and get bored of performing the same actions day after
day); we will essentially work daily without interruption on a number of different tasks. Ninety minutes
lends itself to about five different tasks per day.
Sample Agenda:
1) Warm-Up for 10 minutes.
2) Stamina Reading and Writing Workshops Tests and quizzes will be announced in advanced, but
some quizzes may be given unannounced to challenge your capabilities.
3) Class will vary on either textbook work, writing/reading workshops, depending on the depth of the
topic. (20 minutes)
4) Cool down, summarize, recap and show what you've learned. (10 minutes)
5) Homework, or Reinforcement
Our course is a daily 90-minute class of distinctive Language Arts lessons that implement the standards
and mandates of Broward County School Board. You will be tested in different ways to determine how
well you have engaged and understood the material (see Course Rubric). Also, you will be prepared to
not only to pass all standardized tests, but to master the skills necessary for future work. Class tests
and quizzes may include electronic, written, or performance assessments. In the midst of all this, you
will be observed for classroom participation and character (please make sure you understand the Code
of Student Conduct (CoSC) very well).
Assignments:
All assignments are due on the specified date. The teacher reserves the right to change or
modify assignments within reasonable time to notify to the student. If you are absent, classes are your
responsibility, not mine.
| Grading system 90-100 = A 80 - 86 = B 87 -89 = B+ 70 - 76 = C 77- 79 = C+ 60 - 66 = D 67- 69 = D+ 59 or below = F I= Incomplete |
Breakdown of your grade
You will be responsible for the following tasks. Remember, this is all incumbent upon successful
performance of gradual and subsequent evaluations; I might have to assign more work for reinforcement.
Semester Assessment Points
Business Letter 30
Reflective/Expository Essay 100
Persuasive Essay 50
Narrative Essay 50
Compare/Contrast Essay 100
Thought Cards 100
Email 20
DOL 300
Writer's Notebook 100
Research Paper 200
Poetry Portfolio 200
Speech 25
Mid-term Test 100
Vocabulary/Novel 75
Homework 200
Classwork / Attendance 200
Final Test 100
Literature Quizzes TBA
Categories:
Writing/Tests 40%
Projects 21%
Homework/Quizzes 14%
Participation/Attendance 25%
(Note: The points above, and order in which they appear, are all subject to change. Also, depending on
need, additional/alternative work may be assigned and/or imposed).
The Thought Card
Every Tuesday turn in a thought (anything that you can rationalize) written on a 4 X 6 index card. This card
is due upon entry to the classroom. No cards will be accepted after the class begins. If you are absent you
may turn in your card upon attendance, but I will not remind you to turn it in.
Late Work:
Unfortunately, there is little time for delays and procrastination; it will be unfair to others if your work is not
turned in on time and you receive a full grade. However, if there is a medical situation, a parent
(guardian)/teacher conference will be necessary to make the adjustments and/or changes to the schedule or
grade; refer to CoSC. Furthermore, since work is announced ahead of time, absence is not an excuse for
late work. You must make your homework available via email: languagearts@teacher.com, or turn in
through a friend, sibling, or parent/guardian. NO EXCUSES.
Extra Credit:
After ALL required work is done, if you feel that your efforts have not returned the grade you expected,
perhaps you can work on something that will improve the grade. You should ask for options. However,
since a load of work has already been scheduled, giving more work to you may seem illogical. If there is a
task that you would like to accomplish and it meets your individual learning style instead of what has been
assigned, it would be worthwhile to attempt this as a valid educational tool for us. Still, discretion is
advised when requesting extra credit.
You will be awarded Extra Credit only if-
. You have submitted all required work
. You have no more than three tardies
. No extra credit has already been awarded for the marking period.
. Previous work shows effort.
Note: Every now and then something special comes up and I may request your volunteered work for extra
credit. Take the opportunity to do this in case you need the points in the future. Also note: I am your
teacher, not your parents' teachers.
Bathroom/Locker passes: each student will be allowed bathroom visitations as per my
discretion and depending on the situation. Make every effort to come prepared to class, which is a
1.5-hour period; use the time given to you before entering class.
My Mission Statement
As a teacher, I pledge to exceed all requirements of my position by consistently providing high levels of
performance quality with proficiency. I will continue to focus my efforts on producing outcomes that meet
the ever-changing needs of my students. I will abide by the policies of the Board of Education and will
stand firm on pedagogical procedures.
In accomplishing my mission, I commit myself to work with utmost motivation and persistence. I will
encourage my students to do the same by demonstrating vitality and energy, while maintaining a positive
self-image. I will do this by following the standards and continuously exercising to maintain my physical and
mental condition. Simultaneously, I will train and educate myself to become not only an expert in the field;
but also to reflect knowledge of current trends, technological advances and underlying alternatives. I
believe in achievement through integrity and responsibility through honor with
It is my ultimate focus, however, to provide to others, promote, and let others see, that kindness and
sincerity, in the end, is all that really matters.
You will be responsible for the following tasks. Remember, this is all incumbent upon successful
performance of gradual and subsequent evaluations; I might have to assign more work for reinforcement.
Semester Assessment Points
Business Letter 30
Reflective/Expository Essay 100
Persuasive Essay 50
Narrative Essay 50
Compare/Contrast Essay 100
Thought Cards 100
Email 20
DOL 300
Writer's Notebook 100
Research Paper 200
Poetry Portfolio 200
Speech 25
Mid-term Test 100
Vocabulary/Novel 75
Homework 200
Classwork / Attendance 200
Final Test 100
Literature Quizzes TBA
Categories:
Writing/Tests 40%
Projects 21%
Homework/Quizzes 14%
Participation/Attendance 25%
(Note: The points above, and order in which they appear, are all subject to change. Also, depending on
need, additional/alternative work may be assigned and/or imposed).
The Thought Card
Every Tuesday turn in a thought (anything that you can rationalize) written on a 4 X 6 index card. This card
is due upon entry to the classroom. No cards will be accepted after the class begins. If you are absent you
may turn in your card upon attendance, but I will not remind you to turn it in.
Late Work:
Unfortunately, there is little time for delays and procrastination; it will be unfair to others if your work is not
turned in on time and you receive a full grade. However, if there is a medical situation, a parent
(guardian)/teacher conference will be necessary to make the adjustments and/or changes to the schedule or
grade; refer to CoSC. Furthermore, since work is announced ahead of time, absence is not an excuse for
late work. You must make your homework available via email: languagearts@teacher.com, or turn in
through a friend, sibling, or parent/guardian. NO EXCUSES.
Extra Credit:
After ALL required work is done, if you feel that your efforts have not returned the grade you expected,
perhaps you can work on something that will improve the grade. You should ask for options. However,
since a load of work has already been scheduled, giving more work to you may seem illogical. If there is a
task that you would like to accomplish and it meets your individual learning style instead of what has been
assigned, it would be worthwhile to attempt this as a valid educational tool for us. Still, discretion is
advised when requesting extra credit.
You will be awarded Extra Credit only if-
. You have submitted all required work
. You have no more than three tardies
. No extra credit has already been awarded for the marking period.
. Previous work shows effort.
Note: Every now and then something special comes up and I may request your volunteered work for extra
credit. Take the opportunity to do this in case you need the points in the future. Also note: I am your
teacher, not your parents' teachers.
Bathroom/Locker passes: each student will be allowed bathroom visitations as per my
discretion and depending on the situation. Make every effort to come prepared to class, which is a
1.5-hour period; use the time given to you before entering class.
My Mission Statement
As a teacher, I pledge to exceed all requirements of my position by consistently providing high levels of
performance quality with proficiency. I will continue to focus my efforts on producing outcomes that meet
the ever-changing needs of my students. I will abide by the policies of the Board of Education and will
stand firm on pedagogical procedures.
In accomplishing my mission, I commit myself to work with utmost motivation and persistence. I will
encourage my students to do the same by demonstrating vitality and energy, while maintaining a positive
self-image. I will do this by following the standards and continuously exercising to maintain my physical and
mental condition. Simultaneously, I will train and educate myself to become not only an expert in the field;
but also to reflect knowledge of current trends, technological advances and underlying alternatives. I
believe in achievement through integrity and responsibility through honor with
It is my ultimate focus, however, to provide to others, promote, and let others see, that kindness and
sincerity, in the end, is all that really matters.