THE NEWMAN SCHOOL
BOSTON, MA
LITERATURE 3
Miss Julianne Papetsas Fall 2011
Course Description:
Literature 3 takes the ESL student beyond reading purely for comprehension and toward close reading for analysis. Students will begin to learn basic literary concepts such as plot, character, setting, conflict, etc. and be able to apply these concepts to the works that they are reading, primarily American Literature. The exploration of American Literature will not only allow the student to learn literary fundamentals, but also develop an understanding of how American Literature reveals U.S. history and the American mind/culture. The student will leave this class with an extensive vocabulary of literary terminology.
Required Material:
1. American Literature Text Book (Provided)
2. Notebook, for class notes
3. The Newman School agenda book (Recommended)
Goals and Objectives:
The student will be able to . . .
1. Read and comprehend literature
2. Closely read and analyze literature for deeper meaning
3. Understand common themes in American literature and apply American literature to its historical backdrop and American culture
4. Define and apply concepts such as character, plot, conflict, theme, setting, etc. to literature
5. Write analytical responses to readings.
6. Discuss ideas about literature with peers.
7. Define and apply more specific terms such as irony, foreshadowing, personification, etc.
Course Grading/Policy:
Homework (20%) – All homework is expected to be completed the day it is due. An uncompleted homework assignment will result in Homework Tutorial, and a grade of a zero. Students are permitted to work together on their homework, but NO COPYING!!!
Participation (20%) – It is necessary for the student to be present in class, attentive, and taking thorough notes. The student must arrive in class on time and prepared with the required texts and notebooks. Consistent absences are inexcusable and will cause the final grade to suffer. Involvement in class discussions is necessary to achieve a good participation grade.
Quizzes (20%) – Quizzes may NOT be made up. The lowest quiz grade for each student will be dropped at the end of the semester to account for absences and difficulties. Cheating will result in a grade of zero and a report to the administration.
Tests (20%) – The same rules apply to tests as apply to quizzes, except the lowest grade will NOT be dropped, so BE THERE on the day of the test.
Projects/Papers (20%) - Papers must be completed and handed in on time. The grade will drop 10 points each day it is late. Plagiarism is inexcusable and will also result in a grade of zero and a report to the Headmaster.
*Note: Grade breakdowns are subject to change due to inevitable adjustments throughout the semester.