Mr. Fox, CCA, Rm. E-208 Spring 2010
craig.fox@sduhsd.net (858) 350-0277 x4168
Welcome to English 9CP. Looking at the district’s English curriculum, the ninth grade is, I believe, the best of your high school career. I will work to make the fantastic material engaging, accessible, and meaningful. I anticipate an enlightening time for us all.
Texts
Short stories from textbook The Language of Literature, excerpts from The Odyssey, excerpts from Genesis, Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck, Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, and Lord of the Flies by William Golding
Components of the Class
- Independent Reading (15%) – Starting at the bell four days a week, we will have an independent reading period of 15 minutes. Students will be responsible for reading approximately 800 pages (these must be observed by Mr. Fox and logged into a folder in class), participating actively in Sustained Silent Reading, and presenting a creative book report each quarter.
- Classwork (15%) –Grammar, vocabulary, and writing activities completed in class.
- Essays (30%) – For most texts, we will culminate our work with either an in-class or take-home essay.Credit will often be given for process related work as well (outline, draft, peer review, etc.).
- Projects (15%) – I enjoy creative projects using different modes such as visual, performance, and creative writing.
- Participation/Citizenship (10%) – Listening will be key. Grades will be evaluated against a rubric available online at my website.
- Homework/Quizzes (15%) – Homework will often involve reading students can expect regular quizzes. Most nights students should be reading their Independent Reading book to achieve their 800 page total.
Grades: 90% and up = A, 80 – 89.4% = B, 70 – 79.4% = C, 60-69.4% = D, below 59.5% = F
Class Rules
- No food or gum. You may drink water in closed containers.
- No late work will be accepted unless pre-arranged
- Personal concerns (regarding grades, late work, etc.) should be addressed during office hours or via email
- Use common sense, the golden rule and trust in karma
- Cell phones and other electronics used at times other than directed will be sent to the A.P.
Consequences: 1) After class meeting with Mr. Fox and, if necessary, some karmic consequence, 2) Call Home, 3) Referra
Supplies
- A section of a notebook which you will bring to class daily. Lessons will build upon each other so you will be expected to keep work from the previous day. When we have finished a section and you see your grade logged into the online grade book, feel free to discard the paperwork.
- Your Independent Reading book
- Your sense of humor, humility, and adventure.
Contact
Please contact me via email, phone, or drop by Room E-208. I’m available by 7:45am and after 3rd Period daily. I also have a 4th Period Prep period from 1:45 till 3:15 though half the time I’m not my class, but around campus. I’m usually here after school as well since I carpool. 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
Students and Parents
Occasionally, we will watch films to supplement our readings and enhance our understanding. None of these films are rated ‘R’. We will not watch all of these films, but we will watch some. Parents, your signature below indicates your approval of these choices. If you have any questions or concerns, please indicate these in your comment section.
Lord of the Flies (1963) Romeo and Juliet (both 1994 and 1968)
Class choice of: School of Rock, Dodgeball, Bubble Boy, or Star Wars (with our Hero’s Journey Unit)
We also watch episodes of The Simpsons and Will and Grace that help our understanding with specific thematic units.
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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!!! – Tuesday, February 9, 6:00 – 7:30 pm!!!
