LA 10 (Fall/Spring)  (ENG 11)
Instructor : Riley Gardner
World Literature

Course Description

This course is designed to deepen students’ experience with the study of human history across the world, by exploring literary texts that tell stories of human civilization. Beginning with the earliest recorded story on record, The Epic of Gilgamesh, students will consider the role of literacy with regard to human development; the art & craft of written expression; the impact of personal narratives & fictional stories, and their value to the historic record. 
Through reading, interpretation & analysis of diverse texts, students will improve their ability to comprehend & discuss the ways in which humans across cultures have used language to seek understanding and to share experiences. The texts also provide students with models for their own writing, which they will practice in essays analyzing texts, personal narrative stories, and blog entries. Regarding literary analysis, emphasis is placed on summarizing main ideas in fictional and non-fictional texts; identifying themes; and deciphering explicit & implicit meaning.
Writing and revision are integral components of this course. Students can expect a variety of writing assignments, including short & informal in-class reflections; short & extended research investigations; blog-post articles; and more comprehensive analytical and creative writing assignments. 
*Simultaneous enrollment in World History is not required.

Texts and Resources
The Epic of Gilgamesh
Siddhartha by Herman Hesse
Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
Maus by Art Spiegelman
1984 by George Orwell
Selected poetry and short stories from across history.

Grading
Grading : tests- 25%,essays 25%, quizzes- 15%, classwork, homework - 20%, Contribution- 15%

Contribution/Participation
In order to have productive and meaningful class sessions, student participation in class discussion is essential. English as a subject is much more fun and immensely more meaningful when we can have quality discussions in class. A lack of contribution from students will not only result in a lower contribution grade, but also more “paper” (read: boring) assignments.
In order to learn a language, participation is the most important factor. Students should be ready and willing to join in conversation and discussion. Participation will also take into account students being prepared for class on a daily basis.
Students will receive a participation grade out of 3 points for everyday in class. The Grade will be based on the following rubric:

Points
Preparedness
Contribution
3
Student arrives to class prepared and on time, ready to learn
Student contributes meaningful comments and questions that are useful to class discussion.
2
Student shows up on time but is not prepared or visa versa.
Student makes some contributions, but leaves the instructor wanting a bit more from the student.
1
Student shows up late, and unprepared.
Student does not or barely contributes to class discussion.

Classroom Behavior
I would prefer to have a nice, open classroom where we can have lax rules and policies regarding food, bathrooms, technology, etc. If everyone can be responsible and behave as adults, I do not think this should be a problem. If the class proves that we can not be adults about these types of subjects, policies will be put into place to address these problems.

Assignments & Assessments
During the semester students will be given assignments that may be completed in or outside of class. Additionally there will be regular quizzes covering the topics discussed in class and assignments. There will be accumulative tests and/or final projects at the end of each quarter.

Tardy Policy and Being Prepared
It is important that each team member helps us stay on track with our daily schedule. Being prompt to classes is an important responsibility for each teacher and student. Students arriving late to class will be given two warnings. On the third tardy, the student will be “pulled off the water/rock” for 1 day. Any student arriving later than 5 minutes for a class will be “pulled off the water/rock” that same day, even if a previous warning had not been issued. Tardiness does not just mean showing up on time, but showing up prepared. Students will be expected to arrive at the beginning of class with all their school resources and personal needs met, and ready to participate.

Plagiarism and Academic Honesty
We strive for integrity and honesty in our lives… shouldn’t this extend to our academics? Plagiarism, or submitting someone else’s work or ideas as your own, will not be tolerated at World Class. Any plagiarism, cheating, or other forms of academic dishonesty will result in a zero or incomplete on the assignment/test, as well as facing potential academic probation or in some cases, expulsion from the school as seen appropriate by the WCA administration.

Respect and Expectations
The best education takes place where students feel comfortable to learn, express, and think in a safe environment. WCA students and faculty are expected to treat each other with respect and with an open mind. As a school our team will be varied in background, customs, beliefs, and ideas. This is one big advantage to our education. Please be respectful and treat others the way you would like to be treated. Encourage and support others… and they will do the same for you.

*** All of this is subject to change and adjust at the discretion of the teacher or administration of WCKA.