Hello students and parents! 

I am so excited for our English IV class together. Whether you are new-to-me or one of the wonderful students who has taken my Grammar, English I, English II, and/or English III classes, welcome! You do not need to have taken English I, II, or III with me to take this course; however, students should be familiar with basic literary terms such as metaphor, simile, hyperbole, etc. I will provide each student with a list of foundational vocabulary words in case they need a memory refresher for these terms.

In this semester-long course, students will cultivate critical thinking an analytical strategies that will equip them with the language skills they need to be successful as they transition into adulthood. 

The primary goal of Senior English is to utilize our language arts skills in practical ways. To this end, students will spend the fall and spring semesters completing the following tasks: 
-Research and present to the class how to proceed down a career path. 
-Write an effective resumé and cover letter/letter of intent 
-Formulate and polish personal essays for college entrance and scholarship applications

Your student does not need to be college-bound to benefit from this course. Our assignments will be flexible so that students entering trade school or going directly into the work force after high school will be able to learn how to use their language skills to move forward on those paths. 

Along the way, we will also continue to analyze, discuss, and write about literature. We will also look for and fill in any gaps we may have in our grammar skills.

Students will discuss greek roots, literary terms, and various grade-level grammar skills. Additionally, we will read fictional drama, non-fiction, and short stories. Some literature will be presented via class readings so that students can see and learn critical thinking strategies for upper-level reading. Students will be responsible for reading some literature outside of class. This course will include weekly writing practice and students will be assigned two full-length essays for the semester. 

This class will meet live 2 times per week; however, there will be one hour of required homework between each class. Some outside studying may be necessary. **This means that students will spend at least 4 hours per week on this class: 2 live hours and 2 flexible hours.**

Live classes will include lecture-style instruction, class discussions, group work, and some fun games and activities. 

Required homework assignments will vary but may include: online quizzes and tests, workbook activities, projects, and pre-recorded classes. Students will take tests and quizzes using Google Forms. Students will receive a class calendar at the beginning of the semester. This calendar will include all of the homework assignments and major grades. Students should be diligent to turn in their homework assignments by the due date. Students who turn in late work will earn a 50% penalty on that assignment. 

The semester is broken into three units. Parents may receive progress reports at the end of units one and two upon request. Parents will receive final exam scores and report cards at the end of the semester. If you would like to receive progress reports and/or a transcript, please notify me at the beginning of the semester or as soon as possible. Thanks! 

Class Overview


Class Overview

Unit One (Weeks 1-5):
Vocabulary- Research-Based Vocabulary and Field-Specific Jargon
Grammar- Combining Sentences, Utilizing Hyphens and Dashes, MLA Overview
Literature- Research-Based Non-Fiction
Writing- Research Paper: Research a career path of interest to you. Explore the education and/or training  needed, the success rate of entering and remaining in the industry, the salary range and other compensation, etc.
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Unit Two (Weeks 6-10):
Vocabulary- Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde Historical Terms and Literary Vocabulary
Grammar- Revising and Editing- Fragments and Run-Ons; Active vs. Passive Voice
Literature- Read Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
Writing- Literary Analysis

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Unit Three (Weeks 12-14):
Vocabulary- Literary Terms, Novel Vocabulary
Grammar- Manipulating Syntax for Rhetorical Effect
Literature- Read Frankenstein
Writing- Evidence-Based Open-Ended Response Writing