Sophomore English Course Description and Syllabus 2014-2015
Coach Cockerham
Room 229
Welcome to English II! Please read the course syllabus, class rules and requirements for this class. If you
have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to call. It is very important to keep the lines of
communication open. After reading this, please sign and return the last page.
Course Description:
The fall semester focuses on literary analysis and writing about literature while the spring
semester focuses on nonfiction and argument analysis and writing about stylistic elements in nonfiction
and argument as well as writing persuasive essays.
Objectives:
Students will demonstrate the ability to:
identify and analyze the elements of fiction.
identify and analyze the elements of poetry.
determine universal meaning in literary works.
write well about literature with concern not only for content but also with grammar,
style and structure.
identify and analyze the elements of nonfiction.
identify and analyze the elements of argumentation.
use the elements of argumentation and persuasion.
write effectively for many different purposes.
Widen their current level of vocabulary
Solve analogies on an ACT/SAT test level
+++++All Selected Readings are Subject to Change. Often classes will participate in reading selections
and activities in ADDITION to those listed. Notification of any changes will be available to students
promptly.+++++
First Six Weeks
Reading:
Grammar:
Composition:
Vocabulary:
Novel :
short stories
parts of speech, types of sentences, usage
responses to literature, narrative, expository
Reading-related vocabulary words and ACT/SAT relative exercises
To Kill a Mockingbird
Literary Works: Short stories
“Through the Tunnel” p. 28
“Everyday Use” p. 108
“Chee’s Daughter” p. 167
+ other selected works
Second Six Weeks
Reading:
Grammar:
novel, short stories
compound, complex, compound-complex sentences
Composition:
develop patience to carry an essay through deep/multiple meaning,
persuasive writing
Vocabulary:
Analogies and SAT/ACT exercises
Literary Works: Novel:
Third Six Weeks
Reading:
Grammar:
Composition:
Vocabulary:
Literary works:
Fourth Six Weeks
Reading:
TAKS:
Grammar:
Composition:
Vocabulary:
Literary works
drama
phrases and clauses, pronouns
persuasive emphasis
Analogies and Contextual grammar
Julius Caesar or alternate drama
non-fiction, biographies and essays
emphasis on preparation
proper usage/pronouns, verbs, etc.
autobiographies
STAAR and ACT/SAT vocabulary level
“A White Heron” p. 185
“Lather and Nothing Else” p. 44
“ A Very Old Man With Enormous Wings” p. 974
Fifth Six Weeks
Reading:
poetry
Grammar:
research Paper
Vocabulary:
STAAR and ACT/SAT vocabulary level
Literary Works: various poetry selections
Project:
developing your own various types and styles of poetry
Sixth Six Weeks
Reading:
Grammar:
Vocabulary:
Literary Works:
legends
expository writing
From selected works
All Students will participate in a reading program every week. Students will be asked to read a
selection of their choice every week, and will be tested for comprehension every Friday over their
selection both verbally and through written composition. This grade will count as several daily grades
each grading period. All selections must be approved by me prior to reading to insure accountability.
Grading and Evaluation
major grades = 60%
daily grades = 40%
Supplies:
Loose-leaf college ruled notebook paper (plenty of it)
Black or blue pens and #2 pencils
3 packages of ruled note cards (research paper)
Class rules: Be in your seat when the bell rings
Bring supplies to class each day
RESPECT each other’s space, person and property
NO personal grooming
Food or drinks are not allowed in the classroom
Absences: If a student misses an assignment, he/she must make it up. Students have
the number of days to make up all missed assignments per accordance with school
policy. If students are going to be absent due to a school function, please let me know
in advance.
Discipline Management Plan:
Violations of the classroom/school rules will be addressed in the following ways:
Warning (verbal or non-verbal)
Removal from current seat
Last one to leave the classroom
Phone call to parent or parent conference
Office referral
Compliance with expectations will result in:
Verbal/written praise for class and individuals
Privilege pass
Classroom rewards
I look forward to working with each of you and look forward to the school year. . If you need to contact
me, call 847-5347, or leave a message. You may email me at [email protected]
______________________________________________________________________________________
Sign and return this section to Coach Cockerham.
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printed students name
student’s signature
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