Writing Composition Course Outline
Welcome to Composition & Creative Writing!!!
Mrs. Hartnett
Room 224
Here's what to expect…
This is going to be an intense writing course, so plan on coming to class each day ready to write. We will explore various forms of creative, college level and research styles of writing, writing as process and partner/group activities. I encourage you to take risks in order to develop your own unique voice and distinct writing style.
This class is also designed for college preparatory writing. Therefore, you will be working on critical and analytical forms of writing. Don't let this scare you…I plan on having a lot of fun!!!
Class rules…
Very simply:
v Be on time- in class before the bell rings
v Be prepared*
v Be productive- participating with class activities, discussion, & handing in homework on time
v Be RESPECTFUL- to me, your fellow classmates, and yourself
v Be mindful of the environment- conserve paper and use the designated recycle bins in classroom
Failure to comply with these rules will result in the appropriate consequence. (You're seniors, you know what's up!)
*This is what you'll need….
Bring with you to class everyday the following:
1. blue or black pen
2. college ruled paper/notebook
3. binder or folder clearly devoted to this class
4. homework
***I strongly suggest purchasing a pocket dictionary and thesaurus and a writer's reference guide. These will prove to be very handy in this class and in college.
Your grade…
Your grade will be based on timely completion of assignments, effort, class productivity and participation. Assignments make up 90% of your grade, in-class participation makes up 10% .Expect to have a lot of class discussion, sharing your written pieces with the class and one-on-one peer conferencing.
Extra Credit…
There are a number of ways to earn extra credit:
1. Sharing your work with your class at the time it is due will earn you extra points.
2. Making revisions (as per comments) on your final written pieces will allow up to half the points back that were originally lost.
3. Eco-Incentive (see below)
Homework Policy…
***Homework will not be accepted after it is due; therefore a score of zero credit will result in failure to hand work in on time. Consider the deadline as part of the overall grade of the homework assignment.
THIS POLICY IS NON-NEGOTIABLE!!!
Homework is posted daily on the school website. If you are ill and unable to come to class, e-mail it to me: ahartnett@iroquoiscsd.org
With the huge expanse of communication these days, there is no excuse to not have work handed in on time. So text, e-mail, or phone a friend, and/or consult the class website when in doubt!!!
Eco-incentive:
To avoid senseless waste of our precious paper resources, you will be granted an additional 3 points on any computer or hand written assignment that is presented on already printed paper. (The computer lab (room 216) and my classroom have an abundant supply of this paper). This includes any pre-writing, rough drafts and/or final drafts. Be responsible and active towards lessening your carbon footprint!!!
Senior Thesis…
For those who are in need of completing the required Senior Thesis, an assignment will be made available to you.
Availability…
If you find yourself needing extra help, I am available everyday before, during and after school. However, if there is a time that is not compatible with your schedule, you may want to utilize the Academic Center in room 138. Remember, this is YOUR education; get the most out of it!!!