Parent Information Night Medford High School Mr. David Ambrose English 10: British Literature Wednesday, September 27, 2017

Welcome, parents! Thank you for coming this evening. Goals for tonight: To help you understand the work we will be doing throughout the school year. To explain my expectations for my students. To share information about how you can support learning at home. To answer any questions about the course syllabus. To set some goals for your children.

A Little About Me 36 years old, 14 years teaching at MHS English 10 Honors and English 10 Standard Nexus: Freshman Transition Program Blue and White Yearbook Proud father to Ben, Charlotte, and Will UMass Amherst ’03, B.A. English and Journalism UMass Amherst ’04, M.Ed. Urban Education 2014 Graduation Speaker Accreditation Committee

Curriculum Goals To create a safe and comfortable learning environment for each student. To provide each student the opportunity to express himself/herself in a variety of appropriate and creative ways. To analyze and evaluate literature from various genres and time periods. To foster a love and appreciation for reading, writing, speaking, and listening. To prepare for standardized tests such as the MCAS and PSAT.

Class Information Review Syllabus Literature An overview of British literature Standardized Test Preparation PSAT (October 11, 2017) MCAS (Spring 2018) – 3 days Reading and Writing Workshop Self-selected reading, nonfictional informational texts Grammar Vocabulary

Grading Policies Every student has the opportunity to succeed. Quarterly grades will be determined by dividing total points earned over total possible points. 5-30 point assignments: daily homework and classwork, participation 50 point assignments: quizzes, essay rough drafts 100 point assignments: projects, formal essays, tests Digital grade reports are available via School Brains Printed and emailed grade reports available upon request

MCAS An important focus for sophomore year Graduation requirement John and Abigail Adams Scholarship Weekly preparation on Fridays 50% nonfiction, 50% literature (fiction, drama, poetry) Active Reading Strategies Finding Support in the Text Goal: Advanced Score (260 or higher)

Two-Way Communication Course website: www.misterambrose.com Twitter: @misterambrose Email: dambrose@medford.k12.ma.us Weekly Friday email School Brains portal

Q & A and Index Cards Your name and your child’s name Have you been receiving e-mails? Is there anything you want me to know so that I may be a better teacher for your child? Is there anything you would like to share about your child’s personality, interests, or previous academic experiences? Have you been receiving my weekly email updates? (If not, provide your email.) Thank you for coming!