Mr. Green Genius without education is like silver in the mine. - Benjamin Franklin

Score well on the FCAT Reading and FCAT Writes tests. (February and April) Become better analytical thinkers and writers. Prepare for A.P. English in grades 11 & 12. Examine topics relating to human nature, philosophy, psychology, etc. through literature. Develop an appreciation for literature. Utilize technology to gather, synthesize, and share information.

Textbook: McDougal Littell Literature Supplemental texts: Advanced Vocabulary Skills (Townsend Press) Night by Elie Wiesel Macbeth by William Shakespeare In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez Modern novel of choice Basic materials for class: notebook, paper, pens, pencils. Highlighter(s) MacBook Air and USB drive

Choices for modern novel: Life of Pi by Yann Martel The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini Princess: Life Behind the Veil by Jean Sasson Angela’s Ashes by Frank McCourt Kaffir Boy by Mark Mathabane Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls Helpful websites: Project Gutenberg (gutenberg.org); Word Dynamo (dictionary.com); snopes.com; Google Groups

1 st Quarter: Summer reading, Greek mythology, Antigone, short stories, modern novel. 2 nd Quarter: Modern novel, Macbeth, short stories, non-fiction. 3 rd Quarter: In the Time of the Butterflies, short stories, non-fiction, poetry. 4th Quarter: Night, Arthurian legend, short stories. Ongoing: FCAT preparation utilizing practice passages, Reading Plus, and district assessments. FLVS curriculum

Students can expect grades per nine weeks. Quizzes (worth one grade) will often be given after reading assignments. Major tests after novels/plays will be worth 2-3 grades. Homework is given 3-4 nights a week; may be reading or answering questions. Vocabulary is due after each weekend; quiz after 2 chapters; unit test after 5 chapters. Reading Plus – two sessions per week. Work may be typed on laptops; some work may be uploaded to Google Groups.

Be on time. Follow the uniform dress code. Observe common courtesy. Pay attention in class. Turn in work on time (late work is not always accepted). Get absences excused and make up work. Do not misuse electronic devices in class. Do your own work.

Read!!! Analyze and look in-depth; don’t just skim the surface. Work on writing; utilize Word’s built in grammar check. Speak to me if overloaded with work or if you have special circumstances. Take advantage of extra-credit opportunities. Check progress on the portal. When in doubt, ask! I’m always here to help. Utilize technology as a tool, not a distraction. Develop curiosity.