Mr. Fox, CCA, Room E-208 Spring 2009
craig.fox@sduhsd.net (858) 350-0277 x4168
Welcome to Creative Writing. Looking back at all the Creative Writing classes I took, I found that I learned best from experience. Oh, I heard many a lecture on plot, character, and dialogue (as you will). Still, nothing beat a great writing prompt that inspired great writing (and some bad writing too). Similarly, I hope to spark ideas and support your hard work ahead. Later, we will all enjoy the fruits of your labors.
Components of the Class
- Projects (40%) – Most of our projects will be collaborative asking you to write for an actual audience (beside myself). These audiences include other classes, teachers, and contests. Each project will have a corresponding rubric outlining what needs to be accomplished. There will be great variety and freedom in both how you accomplish the tasks and what final forms they take.
- Classwork (20%) – In-class assignments. If the classwork cannot be replicated later, it cannot be made up.
- Final Project (15%) – You’ll choose a writing topic you want to go-off on.
- Independent Reading (15%) – Daily reading and end of term book reports.
- Citizenship (10%) – We will refer to a class rubric available at my website.
Writing Content Restrictions
Like any author, your writing should reflect the appropriateness of your audience. If writing a private journal, a student may write what they like. If writing a project to be read only by me, the content should be appropriate to be read by a supervising adult. If presenting a work to a class, the student should observe content standards appropriate for minors (such as PG-13 films).
Class Rules
- No food. You may drink water in closed containers.
- Tardies will be assessed if students must be reminded to take their seat after the bell. School policies on tardies will be enforced.
- No late papers will be accepted unless pre-arranged.
- If you have complaints or concerns, address them after class. Allow Mr. Fox to complete the lesson.
- Follow common sense, obey the Golden Rule, and have faith in Karma.
Consequences: 1) After class meeting with Mr. Fox and, if necessary, some karmic consequence, 2) Call Home, 3) Referral
Supplies
- A section of a notebook. Often we will do work during the week that will be handed in on Friday as a packet. Keep completed assignments in their notebook until the grade shows up in the online grade book.
- A book to read for daily SSR.
- Your sense of humor, humility, and adventure.
Films
I plan to show a collection of classic films dealing with writers and the writing process. These titles may include:
Sunset Boulevard (1950) Big Fish (2003) Il Postinio (1995) Cinema Paradiso (1990)
All the President’s Men (1976) 8 ½ (1963) Freedom Writers (2007)
I also plan to show several PBS documentaries including one on the history of American comedy and another about Walt Whitman.
We will not watch all of these. At the same time, if you have any problem with any of these titles, please indicate that on the comments on the other side of the sheet. Otherwise, your signature on the syllabus will indicate your consent to have the student watch the movie.
Contact
Please contact me via email, phone, or drop by Room E-208. I’m usually available by 7:30am and after school until 3:45. I also have a 2nd Period Prep period from 9:45 till 11:30. I check my email most evenings, so don’t hesitate to email questions about homework.
*** Make sure your check my website for grades, homework assignments, class documents, and web resources!!!!***
so many questions can be answered there….
Visit it tonight!!! http://teachers.sduhsd.net/cfox
Please sign below to acknowledge you’ve received, read, and support the class movie list and syllabus.
Additionally, please include your comments, questions, or concerns you have about the class. I believe strongly in working together as a team to ensure the highest success of our students.
Student Comments:
Student Name, printed:___________________________
Student Signature:_______________________________
Parent Comments:
Parent Name, printed: _______________________ Relationship to Student:____________________
Parent Signature: __________________________________
Parent Contact Information: day) _________________________****email)______________ ****
eve)__________________________** please write your email above!**
See you at BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT!!!
Thursday, February 5, 6:00 – 7:30 pm!!!
