Hello students and parents! 
I am so excited for our English III class together. Whether you are new-to-me or one of the wonderful students who has taken my Grammar, English I, and/or English II classes, welcome! You do not need to have taken English I or II 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 and analytical strategies that will equip them with the language skills they need to be successful as they transition into adulthood. The primary goal of Junior English is to think analytically. In middle school and early high school, we spend a lot of time helping students learn fundamental comprehension and skills-- i.e., the "what." In upper-level English, we focus on the "how" and the "why." How do writers create effective prose? Why do they use some writing strategies rather than others? When should I write one way as opposed to another?  Understanding the "how" and the "why" brings students one step closer to being able to create powerful writing themselves. My goal is to help students become thoughtful and discerning listeners, innovative thinkers, and influential and effective speakers. 

Students will discuss greek roots, literary terms, and various grade-level grammar skills. This semester will focus primarily on reading and analyzing non-fiction. All literature will be presented via class readings so that students can see and learn critical thinking strategies for upper-level reading. This course will include weekly writing practice such as rhetorical analysis, synthesis, and argumentative writing. 

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! 

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Course Outline:

UNIT ONE (Weeks 1-4):

Vocabulary- Word Roots
Grammar- Punctuation and Combining Sentences
Literature- Historical Non-Fiction
Writing- Writing Grammatically Correct Sentences

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UNIT TWO (Weeks 5-11):

Vocabulary- Literary Terms; Novel Vocabulary
Grammar- Adjusting Syntax for Rhetorical Effect
Literature- Unbroken (Young Adult Adaptation) by Laura Hillenbrand
Writing- Short-Answer Response; Persuasive Essay

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UNIT THREE (Weeks 12-15):

Vocabulary- Short Story Vocabulary; Review Word Roots and Literary Terms
Grammar- Revising and Editing Essays
Literature- Short Stories 
Writing- Literary Analysis


***We will have two spring breaks during the 2025 spring semester. Break one will be the week of February 10-14. Break two will be April 21-25. Both breaks are tentative and may be subject to change.***