Medford High School Mr. David Ambrose English 11 Honors: American Literature Thursday, September 20, 2012

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.

A Little About Me 31 years old 9 th year teaching at Medford High School English 11 Honors English 10 Honors and English 10 Standard Yearbook Proud father to Ben, who also attends school UMass Amherst ’03, B.A. English and Journalism UMass Amherst ’04, M.Ed.

Curriculum Goals To create a safe and comfortable learning environment for each student. To simulate a college English classroom by providing students the opportunity to guide their own learning. To analyze and evaluate American literature from various genres and literary movements. To begin focused exploration of colleges and universities. To prepare for standardized tests such as the SAT. To improve students’ reading and writing skills.

Common Core Curriculum What is it? How does it affect what we do? A Greater Focus on Nonfiction Reading of Literature Reading of Informational Texts Speaking and Listening Writing Language

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

Class Information Literature An overview of American literature Standardized Test Preparation PSAT (October 2012) SAT (January, March, May, June 2013) Reading and Writing Workshop Self-selected reading, nonfiction informational texts Grammar Vocabulary SAT Vocabulary “Hit Parade” In-context Vocabulary

PSAT and SAT PSAT (October 2011) A “no consequences,” realistic practice for SAT National Merit Qualifying Exam A status which is quite prestigious $30 registration fee Friday practice sessions in class Monday lunch sessions SAT (January, March, May, June 2012) Sign up for the SAT Question of the Day A tip for SAT success: read, read, read!

How to get Involved Please bookmark the course website. On the website, you will find the following: Current and archived homework assignments An link Examples of student work Links to help your child with homework

Index Cards Your name and your child’s name Have you been receiving s? 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?

Questions? Does anyone have any questions? Parent-Teacher Conferences Following first quarter report cards

Thank you for coming!