AP Literature and Composition General Information
The official course description for AP English and Composition at Kingsford High School is as follows:The official course description for AP English and Composition at Kingsford High School is as follows:
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition is a full-year course of studies in literature and writing which prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Through the course’s accelerated readings and writings, students will learn how to read closely and to analyze critically. Because of its rigor, the course should be considered writing and reading intensive with a substantial and demanding workload. In order to be successful in the course, students must be organized and disciplined in their studies. Students will be expected to manage in-class activities, outside readings, and long-term assignments simultaneously. A recommended summer reading list with assessments will be distributed to all students enrolled in the course.
The course provides students with the skills and strategies in reading and composition to prepare them for the rigor of academia. By the end of the year, students should be able to understand the conventions of literary discourse, develop an appreciation of literature, and write accurately and insightfully about what they have read. The content of the course corresponds with district curriculum, state standards, and Advanced Placement objectives. Students must meet the ACT College Readiness Standards for Reading and Writing to enroll in this course.
_______________________________________________________________________
Welcome to AP English and Composition and congratulations on choosing to challenge yourself to work at a college level class! As stated in the course description, this course is designed as a college course with a culminating test in May that may qualify you for up to one year’s college English credits. The number of credits depends on the college you choose and the score on the test.
The AP test given in the spring is your opportunity to demonstrate the expertise that you have gained in this class. To acquire that expertise requires determination, organization, open-mindedness, and a decision to work harder than you probably ever have for any academic class you have taken to this point in your education. The result, I assure you, will be worth it.
To understand the general description and expectations for the AP English Literature and Composition course, visit the College Board Advanced Placement Program website, then read specifically about English Literature and Composition. You will also find a variety of helpful resources on this site including study skills, reading tips, sample questions, and other information about the exam and the course.
The literature and writing assigned for this class will develop your reading and composition skills as well as your critical thinking skills. We will work to prepare for the AP exam with the understanding that the exam is not our only objective in AP English. I want you to broaden your reading experience and to learn strategies that will help you become a stronger reader and writer. I want you to feel confident walking into the exam not because I have crammed classic literature down your throat, but because you have an informed appreciation for literature that you want to share with others.
Course goals:
Students will learn how to read actively, making careful observations of textual
details through the close reading and annotating of essays, literary criticism,
poetry, novels, and short stories.
Students will be encouraged through their reading and writing to establish
connections between works of literature through the studied time periods, and to consider the social and historical values the literature embodies.
Students will make inferences and draw conclusions as to the inherent meaning
and value of a work of literature by studying its structure, style, and themes.
Students will interpret how writers use figurative language, imagery, symbolism,
and tone in a literary work.
Students will develop their understanding of how writers use language to provide
meaning and entertainment for their readers.
Students will practice and improve writing for a variety of purposes, including to
understand, to explain, and to evaluate.
Students will practice and improve their ability to develop and organize their
ideas in clear, coherent and persuasive language.
Students will practice and improve the stylistic quality of their writing.
Students will improve their vocabulary and grammar skills through the writing
process and specific instruction in these areas.
Students will learn strategies to pass the AP English Literature and Composition
test.
Writing Instruction
A goal for this course is for you to learn to evaluate your own writing and improve on the
effectiveness of your style. To meet this goal, the class will continually discuss sample
essays to clarify elements of good writing, such has having a logical organization, using a
variety of sentence types, using transitions to link ideas, and supporting generalizations
and main ideas with specific detail.
While many writing assignments will be completed outside of class, you will also
produce timed, in-class essays that model the type of essays you will need to write for the
AP literature exam. These in-class essays also help me assess your ability to closely read
a passage and identify the author’s use of literary devices and stylistic qualities.
Elements of the course:
Continuous assigned out of class readings and exploratory journals
Compositions every two to three weeks which involve the revising and rewriting
of multiple drafts
Regular and active participation in discussions
Grammar instruction
Weekly vocabulary
Periodic reading quizzes and unit exams
Weekly practice on the use of diction, detail, imagery, syntax, and tone using
Nancy Dean’s Voice Lessons.
Preparation for the AP Literature and Composition exam using timed multiple
choice and essay tests
Textbooks and other materials
Students will read from the following texts:
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster
1984 by George Orwell
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
The Awakening by Kate Chopin
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound and Sense to study short fiction, drama, and poetry.
It is STRONGLY encouraged that you purchase the books listed in the syllabus. An integral part of a collegiate level literature course is the ability to explicate the work you read. You need the option to make marginal notes, circle, highlight, and otherwise mark up what you are reading. If you choose not to purchase the books for the course, books will be provided for you. Once again, it is STRONGLY suggested you purchase the texts for this course. All of the books listed can be purchased used at Amazon.com or Half Price books for a reduced price. The most expensive book on the reading list is the Perrine’s. If you choose not to purchase this book, you should, instead, invest in sticky notes and tabs.
General Guidelines and Course Policies:
1. In order to create an environment where all students can learn, I expect students to
meet several obvious classroom expectations which include arriving on time, treating
others with respect, bringing necessary materials, listening when others are speaking,
and speaking with permission. Most students recognize the need for respectful
behavior and know how to act appropriately, but those who cannot follow the
guidelines of respectful behavior will be given one warning and then will be required
to leave the classroom. Insubordination, harassment of teacher or other students, or
purposely destructive behavior will result in immediate removal from class.
2. Be aware of the consequences of being tardy and unexcused from class. The KHS
attendance policy will be followed as explained in the student handbook.
3. Any assignment that has been plagiarized, whether it is from another student or an
internet source, will receive a “0” and the student will not be allowed to make up the
assignment. See the student handbook for more information.
4. Food and beverages are not allowed in the classroom--finish before entering the room.
5. As this is an Advanced Placement course, the pace of instruction is advanced. Attendance
in class is extremely important. If you have to miss class, you will miss out on some activities and
discussions that cannot be made up. If you miss school on a test day, I expect you to make up
the test within three days by staying after school. See me before or after school to discuss
any make-up work immediately following an absence. You may also email me if you
are sitting home sick, but are not too sick to do some homework.
6. Late work is generally not accepted in a college-level class. Daily assignments or
homework will not be accepted late. Major essays or projects will be reduced one full
letter grade (10%) for each day they are late up to three days.
7. *You are expected to actively participate in small group work and class discussions.
Required Materials:
1. A one or two inch three-ring binder with at least five dividers and loose leaf paper
2. Blue or black ink pens for in-class writing
3. Yellow, pink, blue, and orange or green highlighters
4. Post-it notes that are large enough for writing questions and comments on them
5. A couple of brightly colored ink pens (red, pink, orange, etc.) for marking other
students’ essays.
Grading: Your grade will be determined by a straight points system. Obviously, tests, major writing assignments, and projects with lengthy due dates are worth more points than shorter, daily assignments. However, missing too many daily assignments can seriously impact your overall grade. Participation is
a major element in this course. Participation points are primarily given for contributing to class discussions. You may also earn participation grades for giving casual oral presentations and participating in various group assignments. Participation points are lost for failing to remain on task,sleeping, working on assignments for other classes, or refusing to participate. You need to make a conscious effort to answer questions and get involved in discussions!
A word about discussion in AP English Lit. . . . In addition to the amount of reading and writing, perhaps the one other component that separates this class from a regular English class is the level of discussion that is expected. Students should come to class each day with thoughts, questions, and insights about the reading. While we will discuss more thoroughly in class my expectations and assessment methods for class discussion, the following list describes good discussion:
Good discussion involves many voices, not just the voices of a few students, and
encourages participation by all.
Good discussion focuses on the reading.
Good discussion stays with a topic long enough to explore the complexities of the
topic, but does not keep repeating the same ideas.
Good discussion forces you to think about and examine your own ideas, but it
does not take the form of a debate in which you attempt to prove everyone else’s
ideas as wrong. It is not a win/lose proposition.
Good discussion requires everyone’s attention on the speaker.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Students will have access to the school's Wi-Fi network so that learning moves beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students may bring and use their own mobile device (SMARTPHONE, iPad, Laptop) in the classroom during teacher permitted times. All ring tones and sounds must be set to SILENT unless otherwise directed. No texting is allowed unless directed by the teacher. Failure to follow these three classroom policies will result in immediate loss of the device. The teacher will keep the device until a parent contact can be made. If a student violates the rules a second time, he or she will immediately receive five hours of Saturday School. Upon the third offense, the student will receive suspension. Mobile Devices in the classroom are used for educational purposes only and any student who uses his or her mobile device in a manner that violates the school district’s Acceptable Use Policy and the classroom guidelines will lose the privilege of using a mobile device in the classroom
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition is a full-year course of studies in literature and writing which prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Through the course’s accelerated readings and writings, students will learn how to read closely and to analyze critically. Because of its rigor, the course should be considered writing and reading intensive with a substantial and demanding workload. In order to be successful in the course, students must be organized and disciplined in their studies. Students will be expected to manage in-class activities, outside readings, and long-term assignments simultaneously. A recommended summer reading list with assessments will be distributed to all students enrolled in the course.
The course provides students with the skills and strategies in reading and composition to prepare them for the rigor of academia. By the end of the year, students should be able to understand the conventions of literary discourse, develop an appreciation of literature, and write accurately and insightfully about what they have read. The content of the course corresponds with district curriculum, state standards, and Advanced Placement objectives. Students must meet the ACT College Readiness Standards for Reading and Writing to enroll in this course.
_______________________________________________________________________
Welcome to AP English and Composition and congratulations on choosing to challenge yourself to work at a college level class! As stated in the course description, this course is designed as a college course with a culminating test in May that may qualify you for up to one year’s college English credits. The number of credits depends on the college you choose and the score on the test.
The AP test given in the spring is your opportunity to demonstrate the expertise that you have gained in this class. To acquire that expertise requires determination, organization, open-mindedness, and a decision to work harder than you probably ever have for any academic class you have taken to this point in your education. The result, I assure you, will be worth it.
To understand the general description and expectations for the AP English Literature and Composition course, visit the College Board Advanced Placement Program website, then read specifically about English Literature and Composition. You will also find a variety of helpful resources on this site including study skills, reading tips, sample questions, and other information about the exam and the course.
The literature and writing assigned for this class will develop your reading and composition skills as well as your critical thinking skills. We will work to prepare for the AP exam with the understanding that the exam is not our only objective in AP English. I want you to broaden your reading experience and to learn strategies that will help you become a stronger reader and writer. I want you to feel confident walking into the exam not because I have crammed classic literature down your throat, but because you have an informed appreciation for literature that you want to share with others.
Course goals:
Students will learn how to read actively, making careful observations of textual
details through the close reading and annotating of essays, literary criticism,
poetry, novels, and short stories.
Students will be encouraged through their reading and writing to establish
connections between works of literature through the studied time periods, and to consider the social and historical values the literature embodies.
Students will make inferences and draw conclusions as to the inherent meaning
and value of a work of literature by studying its structure, style, and themes.
Students will interpret how writers use figurative language, imagery, symbolism,
and tone in a literary work.
Students will develop their understanding of how writers use language to provide
meaning and entertainment for their readers.
Students will practice and improve writing for a variety of purposes, including to
understand, to explain, and to evaluate.
Students will practice and improve their ability to develop and organize their
ideas in clear, coherent and persuasive language.
Students will practice and improve the stylistic quality of their writing.
Students will improve their vocabulary and grammar skills through the writing
process and specific instruction in these areas.
Students will learn strategies to pass the AP English Literature and Composition
test.
Writing Instruction
A goal for this course is for you to learn to evaluate your own writing and improve on the
effectiveness of your style. To meet this goal, the class will continually discuss sample
essays to clarify elements of good writing, such has having a logical organization, using a
variety of sentence types, using transitions to link ideas, and supporting generalizations
and main ideas with specific detail.
While many writing assignments will be completed outside of class, you will also
produce timed, in-class essays that model the type of essays you will need to write for the
AP literature exam. These in-class essays also help me assess your ability to closely read
a passage and identify the author’s use of literary devices and stylistic qualities.
Elements of the course:
Continuous assigned out of class readings and exploratory journals
Compositions every two to three weeks which involve the revising and rewriting
of multiple drafts
Regular and active participation in discussions
Grammar instruction
Weekly vocabulary
Periodic reading quizzes and unit exams
Weekly practice on the use of diction, detail, imagery, syntax, and tone using
Nancy Dean’s Voice Lessons.
Preparation for the AP Literature and Composition exam using timed multiple
choice and essay tests
Textbooks and other materials
Students will read from the following texts:
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster
1984 by George Orwell (1st Semester)
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (2nd Semester)
Oedipus Rex by Sophocles (1st Semester - In Literature Book)
Hamlet by William Shakespeare (1st Semester - In Literature Book)
The Awakening by Kate Chopin (2nd Semester - In Literature Book)
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (2nd Semester)
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad (1st Semester)
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe (1st Semester)
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger (Summer)
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien (1st Semester)
Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound and Sense to study short fiction, drama, and poetry.
It is STRONGLY encouraged that you purchase the books listed in the syllabus. An integral part of a collegiate level literature course is the ability to explicate the work you read. You need the option to make marginal notes, circle, highlight, and otherwise mark up what you are reading. If you choose not to purchase the books for the course, books will be provided for you. Once again, it is STRONGLY suggested you purchase the texts for this course. All of the books listed can be purchased used at Amazon.com or Half Price books for a reduced price. The most expensive book on the reading list is the Perrine’s. If you choose not to purchase this book, you should, instead, invest in sticky notes and tabs.
General Guidelines and Course Policies:
1. In order to create an environment where all students can learn, I expect students to
meet several obvious classroom expectations which include arriving on time, treating
others with respect, bringing necessary materials, listening when others are speaking,
and speaking with permission. Most students recognize the need for respectful
behavior and know how to act appropriately, but those who cannot follow the
guidelines of respectful behavior will be given one warning and then will be required
to leave the classroom. Insubordination, harassment of teacher or other students, or
purposely destructive behavior will result in immediate removal from class.
2. Be aware of the consequences of being tardy and unexcused from class. The KHS
attendance policy will be followed as explained in the student handbook.
3. Any assignment that has been plagiarized, whether it is from another student or an
internet source, will receive a “0” and the student will not be allowed to make up the
assignment. See the student handbook for more information.
4. Food and beverages are not allowed in the classroom--finish before entering the room.
5. As this is an Advanced Placement course, the pace of instruction is advanced. Attendance
in class is extremely important. If you have to miss class, you will miss out on some activities and
discussions that cannot be made up. If you miss school on a test day, I expect you to make up
the test within three days by staying after school. See me before or after school to discuss
any make-up work immediately following an absence. You may also email me if you
are sitting home sick, but are not too sick to do some homework.
6. Late work is generally not accepted in a college-level class. Daily assignments or
homework will not be accepted late. Major essays or projects will be reduced one full
letter grade (10%) for each day they are late up to three days.
7. *You are expected to actively participate in small group work and class discussions.
Required Materials:
1. A one or two inch three-ring binder with at least five dividers and loose leaf paper
2. Blue or black ink pens for in-class writing
3. Yellow, pink, blue, and orange or green highlighters
4. Post-it notes that are large enough for writing questions and comments on them
5. A couple of brightly colored ink pens (red, pink, orange, etc.) for marking other
students’ essays.
Grading: Your grade will be determined by a straight points system. Obviously, tests, major writing assignments, and projects with lengthy due dates are worth more points than shorter, daily assignments. However, missing too many daily assignments can seriously impact your overall grade. Participation is
a major element in this course. Participation points are primarily given for contributing to class discussions. You may also earn participation grades for giving casual oral presentations and participating in various group assignments. Participation points are lost for failing to remain on task,sleeping, working on assignments for other classes, or refusing to participate. You need to make a conscious effort to answer questions and get involved in discussions!
A word about discussion in AP English Lit. . . . In addition to the amount of reading and writing, perhaps the one other component that separates this class from a regular English class is the level of discussion that is expected. Students should come to class each day with thoughts, questions, and insights about the reading. While we will discuss more thoroughly in class my expectations and assessment methods for class discussion, the following list describes good discussion:
Good discussion involves many voices, not just the voices of a few students, and
encourages participation by all.
Good discussion focuses on the reading.
Good discussion stays with a topic long enough to explore the complexities of the
topic, but does not keep repeating the same ideas.
Good discussion forces you to think about and examine your own ideas, but it
does not take the form of a debate in which you attempt to prove everyone else’s
ideas as wrong. It is not a win/lose proposition.
Good discussion requires everyone’s attention on the speaker.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Students will have access to the school's Wi-Fi network so that learning moves beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students may bring and use their own mobile device (SMARTPHONE, iPad, Laptop) in the classroom during teacher permitted times. All ring tones and sounds must be set to SILENT unless otherwise directed. No texting is allowed unless directed by the teacher. Failure to follow these three classroom policies will result in immediate loss of the device. The teacher will keep the device until a parent contact can be made. If a student violates the rules a second time, he or she will immediately receive five hours of Saturday School. Upon the third offense, the student will receive suspension. Mobile Devices in the classroom are used for educational purposes only and any student who uses his or her mobile device in a manner that violates the school district’s Acceptable Use Policy and the classroom guidelines will lose the privilege of using a mobile device in the classroom
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition is a full-year course of studies in literature and writing which prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Through the course’s accelerated readings and writings, students will learn how to read closely and to analyze critically. Because of its rigor, the course should be considered writing and reading intensive with a substantial and demanding workload. In order to be successful in the course, students must be organized and disciplined in their studies. Students will be expected to manage in-class activities, outside readings, and long-term assignments simultaneously. A recommended summer reading list with assessments will be distributed to all students enrolled in the course.
The course provides students with the skills and strategies in reading and composition to prepare them for the rigor of academia. By the end of the year, students should be able to understand the conventions of literary discourse, develop an appreciation of literature, and write accurately and insightfully about what they have read. The content of the course corresponds with district curriculum, state standards, and Advanced Placement objectives. Students must meet the ACT College Readiness Standards for Reading and Writing to enroll in this course.
_______________________________________________________________________
Welcome to AP English and Composition and congratulations on choosing to challenge yourself to work at a college level class! As stated in the course description, this course is designed as a college course with a culminating test in May that may qualify you for up to one year’s college English credits. The number of credits depends on the college you choose and the score on the test.
The AP test given in the spring is your opportunity to demonstrate the expertise that you have gained in this class. To acquire that expertise requires determination, organization, open-mindedness, and a decision to work harder than you probably ever have for any academic class you have taken to this point in your education. The result, I assure you, will be worth it.
To understand the general description and expectations for the AP English Literature and Composition course, visit the College Board Advanced Placement Program website, then read specifically about English Literature and Composition. You will also find a variety of helpful resources on this site including study skills, reading tips, sample questions, and other information about the exam and the course.
The literature and writing assigned for this class will develop your reading and composition skills as well as your critical thinking skills. We will work to prepare for the AP exam with the understanding that the exam is not our only objective in AP English. I want you to broaden your reading experience and to learn strategies that will help you become a stronger reader and writer. I want you to feel confident walking into the exam not because I have crammed classic literature down your throat, but because you have an informed appreciation for literature that you want to share with others.
Course goals:
Students will learn how to read actively, making careful observations of textual
details through the close reading and annotating of essays, literary criticism,
poetry, novels, and short stories.
Students will be encouraged through their reading and writing to establish
connections between works of literature through the studied time periods, and to consider the social and historical values the literature embodies.
Students will make inferences and draw conclusions as to the inherent meaning
and value of a work of literature by studying its structure, style, and themes.
Students will interpret how writers use figurative language, imagery, symbolism,
and tone in a literary work.
Students will develop their understanding of how writers use language to provide
meaning and entertainment for their readers.
Students will practice and improve writing for a variety of purposes, including to
understand, to explain, and to evaluate.
Students will practice and improve their ability to develop and organize their
ideas in clear, coherent and persuasive language.
Students will practice and improve the stylistic quality of their writing.
Students will improve their vocabulary and grammar skills through the writing
process and specific instruction in these areas.
Students will learn strategies to pass the AP English Literature and Composition
test.
Writing Instruction
A goal for this course is for you to learn to evaluate your own writing and improve on the
effectiveness of your style. To meet this goal, the class will continually discuss sample
essays to clarify elements of good writing, such has having a logical organization, using a
variety of sentence types, using transitions to link ideas, and supporting generalizations
and main ideas with specific detail.
While many writing assignments will be completed outside of class, you will also
produce timed, in-class essays that model the type of essays you will need to write for the
AP literature exam. These in-class essays also help me assess your ability to closely read
a passage and identify the author’s use of literary devices and stylistic qualities.
Elements of the course:
Continuous assigned out of class readings and exploratory journals
Compositions every two to three weeks which involve the revising and rewriting
of multiple drafts
Regular and active participation in discussions
Grammar instruction
Weekly vocabulary
Periodic reading quizzes and unit exams
Weekly practice on the use of diction, detail, imagery, syntax, and tone using
Nancy Dean’s Voice Lessons.
Preparation for the AP Literature and Composition exam using timed multiple
choice and essay tests
Textbooks and other materials
Students will read from the following texts:
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster
1984 by George Orwell
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Oedipus Rex by Sophocles
Hamlet by William Shakespeare
The Awakening by Kate Chopin
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien
Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound and Sense to study short fiction, drama, and poetry.
It is STRONGLY encouraged that you purchase the books listed in the syllabus. An integral part of a collegiate level literature course is the ability to explicate the work you read. You need the option to make marginal notes, circle, highlight, and otherwise mark up what you are reading. If you choose not to purchase the books for the course, books will be provided for you. Once again, it is STRONGLY suggested you purchase the texts for this course. All of the books listed can be purchased used at Amazon.com or Half Price books for a reduced price. The most expensive book on the reading list is the Perrine’s. If you choose not to purchase this book, you should, instead, invest in sticky notes and tabs.
General Guidelines and Course Policies:
1. In order to create an environment where all students can learn, I expect students to
meet several obvious classroom expectations which include arriving on time, treating
others with respect, bringing necessary materials, listening when others are speaking,
and speaking with permission. Most students recognize the need for respectful
behavior and know how to act appropriately, but those who cannot follow the
guidelines of respectful behavior will be given one warning and then will be required
to leave the classroom. Insubordination, harassment of teacher or other students, or
purposely destructive behavior will result in immediate removal from class.
2. Be aware of the consequences of being tardy and unexcused from class. The KHS
attendance policy will be followed as explained in the student handbook.
3. Any assignment that has been plagiarized, whether it is from another student or an
internet source, will receive a “0” and the student will not be allowed to make up the
assignment. See the student handbook for more information.
4. Food and beverages are not allowed in the classroom--finish before entering the room.
5. As this is an Advanced Placement course, the pace of instruction is advanced. Attendance
in class is extremely important. If you have to miss class, you will miss out on some activities and
discussions that cannot be made up. If you miss school on a test day, I expect you to make up
the test within three days by staying after school. See me before or after school to discuss
any make-up work immediately following an absence. You may also email me if you
are sitting home sick, but are not too sick to do some homework.
6. Late work is generally not accepted in a college-level class. Daily assignments or
homework will not be accepted late. Major essays or projects will be reduced one full
letter grade (10%) for each day they are late up to three days.
7. *You are expected to actively participate in small group work and class discussions.
Required Materials:
1. A one or two inch three-ring binder with at least five dividers and loose leaf paper
2. Blue or black ink pens for in-class writing
3. Yellow, pink, blue, and orange or green highlighters
4. Post-it notes that are large enough for writing questions and comments on them
5. A couple of brightly colored ink pens (red, pink, orange, etc.) for marking other
students’ essays.
Grading: Your grade will be determined by a straight points system. Obviously, tests, major writing assignments, and projects with lengthy due dates are worth more points than shorter, daily assignments. However, missing too many daily assignments can seriously impact your overall grade. Participation is
a major element in this course. Participation points are primarily given for contributing to class discussions. You may also earn participation grades for giving casual oral presentations and participating in various group assignments. Participation points are lost for failing to remain on task,sleeping, working on assignments for other classes, or refusing to participate. You need to make a conscious effort to answer questions and get involved in discussions!
A word about discussion in AP English Lit. . . . In addition to the amount of reading and writing, perhaps the one other component that separates this class from a regular English class is the level of discussion that is expected. Students should come to class each day with thoughts, questions, and insights about the reading. While we will discuss more thoroughly in class my expectations and assessment methods for class discussion, the following list describes good discussion:
Good discussion involves many voices, not just the voices of a few students, and
encourages participation by all.
Good discussion focuses on the reading.
Good discussion stays with a topic long enough to explore the complexities of the
topic, but does not keep repeating the same ideas.
Good discussion forces you to think about and examine your own ideas, but it
does not take the form of a debate in which you attempt to prove everyone else’s
ideas as wrong. It is not a win/lose proposition.
Good discussion requires everyone’s attention on the speaker.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Students will have access to the school's Wi-Fi network so that learning moves beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students may bring and use their own mobile device (SMARTPHONE, iPad, Laptop) in the classroom during teacher permitted times. All ring tones and sounds must be set to SILENT unless otherwise directed. No texting is allowed unless directed by the teacher. Failure to follow these three classroom policies will result in immediate loss of the device. The teacher will keep the device until a parent contact can be made. If a student violates the rules a second time, he or she will immediately receive five hours of Saturday School. Upon the third offense, the student will receive suspension. Mobile Devices in the classroom are used for educational purposes only and any student who uses his or her mobile device in a manner that violates the school district’s Acceptable Use Policy and the classroom guidelines will lose the privilege of using a mobile device in the classroom
Advanced Placement Literature and Composition is a full-year course of studies in literature and writing which prepares students for the Advanced Placement examination in May. Through the course’s accelerated readings and writings, students will learn how to read closely and to analyze critically. Because of its rigor, the course should be considered writing and reading intensive with a substantial and demanding workload. In order to be successful in the course, students must be organized and disciplined in their studies. Students will be expected to manage in-class activities, outside readings, and long-term assignments simultaneously. A recommended summer reading list with assessments will be distributed to all students enrolled in the course.
The course provides students with the skills and strategies in reading and composition to prepare them for the rigor of academia. By the end of the year, students should be able to understand the conventions of literary discourse, develop an appreciation of literature, and write accurately and insightfully about what they have read. The content of the course corresponds with district curriculum, state standards, and Advanced Placement objectives. Students must meet the ACT College Readiness Standards for Reading and Writing to enroll in this course.
_______________________________________________________________________
Welcome to AP English and Composition and congratulations on choosing to challenge yourself to work at a college level class! As stated in the course description, this course is designed as a college course with a culminating test in May that may qualify you for up to one year’s college English credits. The number of credits depends on the college you choose and the score on the test.
The AP test given in the spring is your opportunity to demonstrate the expertise that you have gained in this class. To acquire that expertise requires determination, organization, open-mindedness, and a decision to work harder than you probably ever have for any academic class you have taken to this point in your education. The result, I assure you, will be worth it.
To understand the general description and expectations for the AP English Literature and Composition course, visit the College Board Advanced Placement Program website, then read specifically about English Literature and Composition. You will also find a variety of helpful resources on this site including study skills, reading tips, sample questions, and other information about the exam and the course.
The literature and writing assigned for this class will develop your reading and composition skills as well as your critical thinking skills. We will work to prepare for the AP exam with the understanding that the exam is not our only objective in AP English. I want you to broaden your reading experience and to learn strategies that will help you become a stronger reader and writer. I want you to feel confident walking into the exam not because I have crammed classic literature down your throat, but because you have an informed appreciation for literature that you want to share with others.
Course goals:
Students will learn how to read actively, making careful observations of textual
details through the close reading and annotating of essays, literary criticism,
poetry, novels, and short stories.
Students will be encouraged through their reading and writing to establish
connections between works of literature through the studied time periods, and to consider the social and historical values the literature embodies.
Students will make inferences and draw conclusions as to the inherent meaning
and value of a work of literature by studying its structure, style, and themes.
Students will interpret how writers use figurative language, imagery, symbolism,
and tone in a literary work.
Students will develop their understanding of how writers use language to provide
meaning and entertainment for their readers.
Students will practice and improve writing for a variety of purposes, including to
understand, to explain, and to evaluate.
Students will practice and improve their ability to develop and organize their
ideas in clear, coherent and persuasive language.
Students will practice and improve the stylistic quality of their writing.
Students will improve their vocabulary and grammar skills through the writing
process and specific instruction in these areas.
Students will learn strategies to pass the AP English Literature and Composition
test.
Writing Instruction
A goal for this course is for you to learn to evaluate your own writing and improve on the
effectiveness of your style. To meet this goal, the class will continually discuss sample
essays to clarify elements of good writing, such has having a logical organization, using a
variety of sentence types, using transitions to link ideas, and supporting generalizations
and main ideas with specific detail.
While many writing assignments will be completed outside of class, you will also
produce timed, in-class essays that model the type of essays you will need to write for the
AP literature exam. These in-class essays also help me assess your ability to closely read
a passage and identify the author’s use of literary devices and stylistic qualities.
Elements of the course:
Continuous assigned out of class readings and exploratory journals
Compositions every two to three weeks which involve the revising and rewriting
of multiple drafts
Regular and active participation in discussions
Grammar instruction
Weekly vocabulary
Periodic reading quizzes and unit exams
Weekly practice on the use of diction, detail, imagery, syntax, and tone using
Nancy Dean’s Voice Lessons.
Preparation for the AP Literature and Composition exam using timed multiple
choice and essay tests
Textbooks and other materials
Students will read from the following texts:
How to Read Literature Like a Professor by Thomas C. Foster
1984 by George Orwell (1st Semester)
Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston (2nd Semester)
Oedipus Rex by Sophocles (1st Semester - In Literature Book)
Hamlet by William Shakespeare (1st Semester - In Literature Book)
The Awakening by Kate Chopin (2nd Semester - In Literature Book)
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald (2nd Semester)
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad (1st Semester)
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe (1st Semester)
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger (Summer)
The Things They Carried by Tim O’Brien (1st Semester)
Perrine’s Literature: Structure, Sound and Sense to study short fiction, drama, and poetry.
It is STRONGLY encouraged that you purchase the books listed in the syllabus. An integral part of a collegiate level literature course is the ability to explicate the work you read. You need the option to make marginal notes, circle, highlight, and otherwise mark up what you are reading. If you choose not to purchase the books for the course, books will be provided for you. Once again, it is STRONGLY suggested you purchase the texts for this course. All of the books listed can be purchased used at Amazon.com or Half Price books for a reduced price. The most expensive book on the reading list is the Perrine’s. If you choose not to purchase this book, you should, instead, invest in sticky notes and tabs.
General Guidelines and Course Policies:
1. In order to create an environment where all students can learn, I expect students to
meet several obvious classroom expectations which include arriving on time, treating
others with respect, bringing necessary materials, listening when others are speaking,
and speaking with permission. Most students recognize the need for respectful
behavior and know how to act appropriately, but those who cannot follow the
guidelines of respectful behavior will be given one warning and then will be required
to leave the classroom. Insubordination, harassment of teacher or other students, or
purposely destructive behavior will result in immediate removal from class.
2. Be aware of the consequences of being tardy and unexcused from class. The KHS
attendance policy will be followed as explained in the student handbook.
3. Any assignment that has been plagiarized, whether it is from another student or an
internet source, will receive a “0” and the student will not be allowed to make up the
assignment. See the student handbook for more information.
4. Food and beverages are not allowed in the classroom--finish before entering the room.
5. As this is an Advanced Placement course, the pace of instruction is advanced. Attendance
in class is extremely important. If you have to miss class, you will miss out on some activities and
discussions that cannot be made up. If you miss school on a test day, I expect you to make up
the test within three days by staying after school. See me before or after school to discuss
any make-up work immediately following an absence. You may also email me if you
are sitting home sick, but are not too sick to do some homework.
6. Late work is generally not accepted in a college-level class. Daily assignments or
homework will not be accepted late. Major essays or projects will be reduced one full
letter grade (10%) for each day they are late up to three days.
7. *You are expected to actively participate in small group work and class discussions.
Required Materials:
1. A one or two inch three-ring binder with at least five dividers and loose leaf paper
2. Blue or black ink pens for in-class writing
3. Yellow, pink, blue, and orange or green highlighters
4. Post-it notes that are large enough for writing questions and comments on them
5. A couple of brightly colored ink pens (red, pink, orange, etc.) for marking other
students’ essays.
Grading: Your grade will be determined by a straight points system. Obviously, tests, major writing assignments, and projects with lengthy due dates are worth more points than shorter, daily assignments. However, missing too many daily assignments can seriously impact your overall grade. Participation is
a major element in this course. Participation points are primarily given for contributing to class discussions. You may also earn participation grades for giving casual oral presentations and participating in various group assignments. Participation points are lost for failing to remain on task,sleeping, working on assignments for other classes, or refusing to participate. You need to make a conscious effort to answer questions and get involved in discussions!
A word about discussion in AP English Lit. . . . In addition to the amount of reading and writing, perhaps the one other component that separates this class from a regular English class is the level of discussion that is expected. Students should come to class each day with thoughts, questions, and insights about the reading. While we will discuss more thoroughly in class my expectations and assessment methods for class discussion, the following list describes good discussion:
Good discussion involves many voices, not just the voices of a few students, and
encourages participation by all.
Good discussion focuses on the reading.
Good discussion stays with a topic long enough to explore the complexities of the
topic, but does not keep repeating the same ideas.
Good discussion forces you to think about and examine your own ideas, but it
does not take the form of a debate in which you attempt to prove everyone else’s
ideas as wrong. It is not a win/lose proposition.
Good discussion requires everyone’s attention on the speaker.
Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Students will have access to the school's Wi-Fi network so that learning moves beyond the four walls of the classroom. Students may bring and use their own mobile device (SMARTPHONE, iPad, Laptop) in the classroom during teacher permitted times. All ring tones and sounds must be set to SILENT unless otherwise directed. No texting is allowed unless directed by the teacher. Failure to follow these three classroom policies will result in immediate loss of the device. The teacher will keep the device until a parent contact can be made. If a student violates the rules a second time, he or she will immediately receive five hours of Saturday School. Upon the third offense, the student will receive suspension. Mobile Devices in the classroom are used for educational purposes only and any student who uses his or her mobile device in a manner that violates the school district’s Acceptable Use Policy and the classroom guidelines will lose the privilege of using a mobile device in the classroom