Dual Credit English IV: Composition 1301-1302

1. Dual Credit English IV: Composition 1301-1302

2. Dual Credit: What it means… • English 1301 is the college level, Freshman year, 1st semester English course • Students will receive 3 college hours of English at the completion of English 1301 (December, 2014) • English 1302 is the college level, Freshman year, 2nd semester English course • Students will receive 3 college hours of English at the completion of English 1302 (June, 2015)

3. Course Description… • From NVC course catalog: • “This course focuses on developing thesis statements, writing student essays, including the narrative and persuasive modes, and practicing various logical and organization patterns. The course will emphasize reading and critical thinking skills through written, oral and visual rhetorical methods. This course incorporates substantial use of peer review workshops and diverse readings. Successful completion of a research paper/project is required to pass this course.”

4. First Semester… • Students will develop a unique writing voice by engaging in prewriting techniques to generate ideas for essays. They will develop the ability to think critically by questioning written works, identifying premises, assumptions and underlying claims. Students will also compose essays of various types that are well-organized and appropriate to audience and purpose, with strong thesis statements; strong, developed paragraphs including topic sentences, ample supporting details; and appropriate conclusions. We will emphasize the revision process, focusing on organization and content of essays in structure, style, format, standard grammar and syntax, taking into account peer responses, instructor suggestions, and the writer's own reflective analysis. The class will engage in the research process using MLA-style standards, developing library skills, understanding reference materials, and learning to use technological resources.

5. Second Semester… • Students will learn various principles and techniques of written, expository, and persuasive composition; analysis of literary, expository, and/or persuasive texts; emphasis on critical thinking. Students will continue to develop their unique writing voices by practicing prewriting techniques. They will begin to discuss the nature of argumentative writing, and they will discuss strategies and elements of the ‘argument.’ In-class and out-of-class writing will emphasize the use of secondary sources (research) and correct MLA format procedures. Students will incorporate ideas generated from reading various articles and passages from the text and outside sources into student-produced essays.

6. Mrs. Majetich • Dual Credit English IV: Composition 1301 & 1302 meets 3RD AND 6THperiodS. • Utilize TeacherWeb as much as possible, especially when you are absent. It will be your lifesaver in this course. • This is a college level course, and students will be held to college standards. • I will not print additional copies. Everything will be made available on TeacherWeb.

7. Materials • Students in Dual Credit are encouraged to purchase their own textbooks. Class copies may become available; however, students may not annotate school-issued books. • Students must purchase their own copy of They Say, I Say. Used books are ideal. • Each student will need a composition notebook (not a spiral notebook) for some writing activities. • Other supplies include pens, pencils, folder (to remain in the classroom), and highlighters. • Students can use a notebook or binder for taking class notes.

8. Grading Expectations… • Evaluation (Major Writing) – 60% • All major assessments in this two-semester course are essay format. • Limited class-time will be given for writing assignments. • Proper MLA documentation is required in this two-semester course. • At least 2 writing assignments per each 9-week grading period. • Application & Reinforcement – 40% • Reading assignments are usually followed by questions. Answers must always be written in complete sentences. • At least 10 assignments per each 9-week grading period (includes presentations, drafts, reading assignments, and other misc. assignments)

9. Plagiarism…what is it? • In upholding integrity, academic dishonesty will not be tolerated. Cheating on assignments, plagiarism (unauthorized use of another person’s work, or inadequate documentation), and collusion through unauthorized collaboration will result in a failing grade. • Plagiarism is usually accidental and is a result of students not knowing how to cite properly. • Get familiar with MLA & APA guidelines. • Easybib.com is your friend.

10. Turning in work… • All homework is due at the start of class on the day it is due. • Late homework and ‘minor’ assignments will not be accepted – including those for unexcused absences and those turned in later that period or day. • “Major” writing assignments • Essays and major writing assignments are almost always due online! • Late work. The penalty for late work on EVALUATION grades (“MAJOR”) is a 30-point deduction if received one class period late and a 50-point deduction if received two class periods late (includes unexcused absences). Any work received after two class periods will receive a zero. NO LATE WORK on Application & Reinforcement grades (quizzes, daily work, and homework) will be accepted. All late work deductions are taken after the assignment is graded. • All zeroes will stand after grades have been submitted, both progress report and report card. • Make-up work for excused absences will be eligible for full credit.

11. Other Rules & Policies… • Please do not move desks, chairs, or tables without being ask to do so. • Please do not use any supplies or materials on my desk. • Please do not sit behind my desk or use the computer without permission. • Students may use supplies and materials on the table in front of my desk. • Unless instructed otherwise - Do not use electronic devices in the classroom – cell phones will be turned in to the office if they are seen, heard, or being used while concealed.

12. For now… • Bring your They Say, I Say to class each day unless notified otherwise. • The Norton Sampler (school-issued) • Bring pens/pencils and paper to class each day. • Composition notebook & folder. • First homework assignment – register for Newsflash on TeachWeb site. Be sure to register under the Composition Newsflash only.

13. Remember… • This is a college class, so students are expected to follow BISD as well as Northwest Vista College guidelines. • Students will be held to high standards and expected to use academic language. • I’m here to help you! • Ask me questions when you do not understand. • Always be prepared for class.

14. Questions… • Concerns… • Comments… • (well – keep those to yourself )