Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
Welcome to Pre-AP English:
In this class, you will learn to demonstrate an appreciation for literature in its many forms. I hope
you learn to love to read! You will also synthesize and interpret new information presented to
use as a foundation for your love of reading and learning for the rest of your life.
In AP we do not just “read” …we R.E.A.D.
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Read – You read assigned work of literature
Evaluate - You keep a journal of important quotes and ideas
Assess – You talk with classmates and find out if your ideas are in line with others
Debrief – I will explain the central themes/ideas of the work
After a work has been thoroughly R.E.A.D., you will demonstrate a complete understanding of
the work of literature by some additional method of formal evaluation. You will be graded on
meaningful participation in class discussions, one MLA-formatted research paper, 3-5 timed
writing essays, and two (one per semester) group research project presentations.
Supplies:
 composition notebook (apx. 9 inches by 7 inches)
 CHS agenda book (or you may purchase your own)
 loose-leaf paper for all assignments*
 a notebook for note-taking
 pens – blue or black ink only for assignments & pencils for tests
*Assignments may be written on notebook paper, as long as the “fringed” edge is removed.
Academic Dishonesty:
Academic dishonesty will not be tolerated in any form. This includes, but is not limited to:
using a cell phone during class, sharing questions and/or answers with students in later classes,
copying the work of others in any way.
Expectations:
This course is designed for the student needing a challenge. Expectations are high for academic
performance and behavior. From time to time there may be movies/stories that contain mature
topics. The nature of the Pre-AP class requires a certain level of maturity.
Pre-Course Summer Assignment:
Each Pre-AP student will study several Literary Terms prior to the first day of school. Be
prepared for a test in the first week of school. Any student who fails this test, will be dropped
from Pre-AP.
Grading Scale: A = 100-93%; B = 92-85%; C = 84-75%; D = 74-68%; F = below 67%
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
Class Rules:
-Rule #1 – __________: Display respectful behavior toward classmates, the teacher, and
any guests at all times.
-Rule #2 –__________________________________________________! 
-I expect you to use the 5 minute passing period as I do; however, I understand that
occasionally, there will be reasons for you to use the pass to leave the room.
-You are old enough to drive; therefore, you are old enough to know if you must use the
facilities. DO NOT interrupt class to ask if you may use the rest room – Just Go!
-There is one Hall Pass to be used only in cases of emergency.
- Only one student may be out of class at a time. The pass (a bright letter “D” on a
lanyard) is to be carried with you to the restroom or locker.
-Abuse my trust, and the pass will be revoked for you and your class.
*This is not the pass to use if you must go to the nurse. I will write a pass for you
to go to the nurse.
-No food or colored drinks are allowed (unless medically excused with a note from the
school nurse or pre-arranged with me due to lack of lunch period) in class. However,
water, with a secure lid, is fine anytime.
Graded Work:
-All assignments must be handed in at the start of the class the day they are due. If the
assignment is not ready to be handed in at the start of class, it is late.
-Late work may or may not be accepted (at teacher discretion) and points may be
deducted.
-All homework* should be written in blue or black ink only. If pencil is used, it must be
very legible. *unless otherwise instructed – for example, research papers are to be typed.
-The proper heading should be on all homework. Your name, date, period, and brief
assignment title are to appear in the upper right-hand corner.
-Loose-leaf paper is to be used – or you may neatly cut the “fringed” edges off prior to
handing it in. This means before the class actually starts.
-The teacher reserves the right to not grade (give zero) for any work that is illegible, late,
or doesn’t follow these instructions.
Make-Up School Work:
- It is your responsibility to find out what work you missed when an absence occurs. All
make-up work must be turned in promptly.
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
-If you miss one day, you have one day to make up the work. The teacher reserves the
right to refuse to allow any student to make up work that goes beyond normal time
frames.
-If you are absent, the first thing to do is read the Assignment Board. If you are unable to
figure out what to do from that, then ask your Class Buddy.
My Class Buddy is: ________________Contact info: ___________________________
Other Protocol:
-Seats will be assigned. You are expected to be in your seat at the start of class ready to
work. If you are not in your seat when the bell rings, you will be counted tardy.
-Do not sit on desks as they are prone to crack and break.
-All backpacks and purses should be placed on the floor or under chairs.
-During tests, all backpacks, purses, books and belongings are to be placed in the back of
the room. This includes cell phones!
On a Personal Note:
I love teaching! I love the English language with its dynamic intricacies. As much as I love the
English language and teaching, there are times when issues come up that out-weigh what goes on
in a classroom.
If you are struggling at any time during the semester, I want to know. I am not a mind-reader and
I average over 100+ students in one year’s time, so it is hard for me to get to know each of you
as well as I would like. I cannot help you if I am unaware that you are stressing out.
PLEASE DO NOT HESITATE to talk to me if you are dealing with issues that feel
overwhelming!
I am happy to talk, counsel, or just listen. 
Mrs. Devine
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
TRIAC: Paragraph and Paper Organization:
Some students can compose an essay on the spur of the moment, moving smoothly and logically
from one paragraph to the next. Most students, though, benefit from writing down a short plan of
organization before they begin to write their essay. This is kind of like directions to follow as
they write. This short plan of organization is called an outline.
Working from an outline, even a rough one, helps writers keep on track, and reminds them of
how to begin and where to end. Outlines help to organize essays, and well-organized essays can
earn better grades. We will learn more about an MLA-formatted outline in class.
Thesis Statements:
A thesis statement is a one- or two-sentence summary of a paper's purpose or point and is
usually located as the last sentence in your introduction. While sometimes you will be
asked to summarize the major points of an article or book, or compare and contrast
certain theories or issues just to demonstrate your understanding of them, usually you will
be expected to write a paper that supports a thesis, which will be either argumentative or
explanatory. A thesis should be limited in scope and will help you organize your paper.
TRIAC: Paragraph and Paper Organization TRIAC is a writing pattern you can use at the
paragraph level for strong organization and effective argument. The same components in
TRIAC paragraphs can give entire papers stronger organization. TRIAC has five parts:
Topic Sentence - The first sentence introduces the subject of a paragraph, essentially
serving as a miniature thesis statement.
Restatement or Restriction - The second sentence can restate or restrict what was
written in the first sentence, making the subject more specific.
Illustration - This section of the paragraph consists of the illustrations (evidence, data,
facts, quotes, etc.) that support your topic sentence. This section can contain several
sentences.
Analysis - Here, you should explain, interpret, and contextualize the illustrations that
have been made. Never leave illustrations by themselves; they are not effective without
the writer analyzing them.
Conclusion - The final sentence (or two) might review what the paragraph has discussed
and/or reemphasize what the illustration and analysis suggest. This closing section may
also evaluate the connections you've made in your paragraph. Keep in mind that you are
also setting yourself up to move smoothly and logically into the next paragraph.
Remember: TRIAC can extend for two or more paragraphs, if the analysis part runs long.
Also, the illustration and analysis sections can be repeated several times if the paragraph
is quite complex.
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
An Example, Sentence by Sentence, of a Paragraph Illustrating TRIAC:
(T) Although vegetarianism has often been associated with issues
(T) of ethics and animal rights, for many people it is no more than
(R) a means to a healthier lifestyle. A vegetarian diet can reduce
(R) the risk of health problems such as high cholesterol, arterial
(I) clogging, and even cancer. Recent evidence indicates that people
(I) with diets rich in dark green vegetables had a 40% less chance of
(I) developing colon cancer. In addition, cutting out meat can
(I) dramatically reduce saturated fat intake (Stewart and Cranshaw 8).
(I) Alice, a university student and seven year vegetarian, says, "I
(I) recognized my potential for cancer because of my genetic history;
(I) when my father's doctor put him on a strict no-meat diet, I decided
(I) it was time to give up burgers and pepperoni." Choosing to cut
(A) out beef and poultry can help many people to become more aware of
(A) what they are consuming, and in turn lead to an overall healthier
(A) style of cooking and eating. In addition, it is not necessary to
(A) become a vegetarian in the strictest sense of the word; for some
(A) people, it simply means cutting down on meat intake and increasing
(A) the amount of fruits and vegetables included in meals. These
(C) adjustments alone can be beneficial without completely altering
(C) an individual's eating habits, and these changes may prevent a
(C) myriad of health problems later in life.
http://seattlecentral.edu/faculty/pescudero/triac.html
ECA – End of Course Assessment
According to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE), tenth grade students will take a
standardized test to ensure all Hoosier students are meeting the state standards. While these tests
do not impact the grade you receive in Pre-AP, it will be required for high school graduation.
These seven standards are what you will try to master during this Pre-AP class.
From the IDOE:
During the high school years, reading, writing, and speaking overlap as students deepen their
study of language and literature and gain skills that help them in other subjects, such as science
and history. Students intensify their study of vocabulary by interpreting what words imply and
applying their knowledge of roots from Greek and Latin to draw inferences about meaning.
Students analyze and evaluate a wide variety of American, English, and world nonfiction and
literary texts. They study the important works and authors, poets, and playwrights of various
historical periods and critique their works. High school students become good researchers and
write or deliver increasingly sophisticated research reports and multimedia presentations. The
ability to develop an idea and express it persuasively helps students create strong oral and
written skills that they can use in college and the workplace.
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
Standard 1READING: Word Recognition, Fluency, and Vocabulary Development
Standard 2 READING: Comprehension and Analysis of Nonfiction and Informational Text
Standard 3READING: Comprehension and Analysis of Literary Text
Standard 4WRITING: Processes and Features
Standard 5WRITING: Applications (Different Types of Writing and Their Characteristics)
Standard 6WRITING: English Language Conventions
Standard 7LISTENING AND SPEAKING: Skills, Strategies, and Applications
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Pre-AP English Course Calendar:
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Lesson
State Standard
Summer assignment test – Literary Terms
Course Objectives
History of English Language/Etymology lesson
ECA Pre-test
TRIAC method
Short Story Unit
1. Godwin’s Cold Equations
2. Bradbury’s The Pedestrian
3. Wetherell’s The Bass, The River and Sheila Mant
4. Tan’s Two Kinds
5. Walker’s Everyday Use
R.E.A.D. Process introduction:
-reading journals
-class discussions
Vocabulary development
Short Story Unit
6. O’Brien’s Where Have You Gone, Charming
Billy?
7. Poe’s The Masque of the Red Death
8. Erdrich’s The Leap
9. Finny’s Contents of a Dead Man’s Pockets
10. Buzzati’s The Colomber
R.E.A.D. Process
Vocabulary development
-reading journals
-class discussions
Short Story Unit Test/Timed Writing
Poetry Unit
-Frost, Dickinson, cummings, Shakespeare, Updike,
Brooks, Sanburg & “Bonny Barbara Allen” - Anon
R.E.A.D. Process:
2, 4, 5, 6, 7,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Devine
Week 13
-reading journals
-class discussions
Vocabulary development
Literary terms
Poetry Unit Test/Timed Writing
MLA Mechanics
The MLA research process
Non-fiction Unit: The Scopes Monkey Trial
Research Creationism vs. Evolution
MLA: Outline, Works Cited
Persuasive Speech guidelines
Persuasive speech presentations
READ – Lawrence & Lee’s Inherit the Wind
Vocabulary development
Drama: Twelve Angry Men
Vocabulary development
Courtroom Drama exam (Scopes ITW & 12AM)
Novel: A Separate Peace
READ
Novel: A Separate Peace
READ
Shakespeare –Elizabethan England vs. Ancient Rome
Research projects-Web-Quest
Group presentations
Julius Caesar –Act I
Week 14
Julius Caesar –Act II
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Week 15
Julius Caesar –Act III
1, 2, 3
Week 16
Julius Caesar –Act IV
1, 2, 3
Week 17
Julius Caesar –Act V
1, 2, 3
Week 18
Final exam
Winter Break reading assignment
-Night or The Secret Life of Bees
1, 2, 3
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
7, 1, 2, 3
7, 1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Winter Break
Week 19
Week 20
Lesson
State Standard
Winter break reading assignment
Literary critique - Memories
TRIAC/MLA
Novel: Kafka’s Metamorphosis
R.E.A.D.
2, 4, 5, 6, 7,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Pre-AP Course Syllabus
Week 21
Week 22
Week 23
Week 24
Week 25
Week 26
Week 27
Week 28
Week 29
Week 30
Week 31
Week 32
Week 33
Week 34
Week 35
Week 36
Week 37
Week 38
Drama: The Glass Menagerie
Drama: The Glass Menagerie
Drama: The Glass Menagerie
Drama Unit Test
Drama: Farce
Chekov’s The Brute
Ibo tribe research
Novel: Things Fall Apart
READ
Parables
Novel: Things Fall Apart
READ
Novel: Things Fall Apart
READ
Novel: Things Fall Apart
Test
Group Research projects
Lord of the Flies
READ
Group Research projects – presentations
Lord of the Flies
READ
Lord of the Flies
READ
ECA tests
Fairy Tales Lesson
King Lear –Act I
King Lear –Act II
King Lear –Act III
King Lear –Acts IV
King Lear –Act V
Final Exams
*Course calendar subject to change at teacher discretion.
Devine
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
71, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5
1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3
1, 2, 3