This course will concentrate on communication skills through many types of writing. These will include: the basic paragraph types, multi-paragraph compositions, the short research paper, the precis, the review, the essay, and some creative writing. Oral presentations of some writings may be required. Vocabulary study will be included.

CTW is a course designed to improve your writing skills as well as help you learn how to “enjoy” many writing styles and possibly try some new styles of writing. A major goal for sophomores and those who have not passed the Basic Skills Writing Test is to work toward success on that test in January. This does not mean that those who have passed the test will not be challenged. At times, we may need to have different types of assignments given to individuals or groups of students. Since there will be varied levels of writing, peer editing may be used.

Goals

1. To expose students to many types of writing and have the students produce multiple writings.

2. To present vocabulary for students to learn.

3. To use the six traits of writing in all assignments where appropriate.

Objectives

1. The student will show an understanding of voice, ideas, organization, diction, sentence fluency and conventions (the six writing traits) in writings.

2. The student will develop writings of varied types meeting given criteria.

3. The student will broaden their vocabulary through weekly tests.

Assignments and time line:

The types of writing (mainly five paragraphs and longer) and approximate time allotment that will be accomplished in CTW are:

Vocabulary will be given weekly with a test a week after you receive the word list. You are responsible to learn the spellings and definitions of all words given. As time passes in the semester, hopefully your word bank will increase, and the words will be seen in your papers.

Grading

To obtain an “A” (90 to 100%), the student must:

1. Demonstrate a high level of accuracy in assignments/skills.

2. Complete assignments on time.

3. Actively participate in class work.

4. Stay on task

5. Exhibit positive classroom behavior.

Grades lower than an “A” show lower student performance and fall to the following point range:

B - 80 to 90%

C - 70 to 79%

D - 60 to 69%

F - below 60%

All papers are graded with a point value. Points are deducted for errors in mechanics as well as content flaws.

Cheating, including plagiarism, results in loss of all points on that individual assignment. A second incident of cheating or plagiarism may result in a failure for the quarter. If any extra credit is given during a quarter, it will be forfeited or will not be made available to anyone who has cheated or plagiarized in any manner.

Materials needed:

Black or blue pen
Loose leaf paper

Pencil

Folder or notebook

Classroom Expectations

1. If you are absent for any reason, it is YOUR responsibility to get makeup work and turn in missed work in appropriate time frame.

2. No credit will be given to any late assignments. Assignments are due at the beginning of the class period unless otherwise stated.

3. Sleeping in class: If you are unable to stay awake in class, you will stand in the back of the room until you feel you are able to be attentive.

4. It is your responsibility to set up a time with me for extra help on an assignment you find difficult or if an absence has occurred. I am more than happy to help you.

5. The bell or chime does not dismiss you at the end of the period. The bell reminds me to dismiss you. Remain in your assigned seats until I dismiss you.

6. If you are tardy for class, you will give up one Pass or Point per time. After two tardies, you have no Pass or Points, and detention may be assigned.

Grading Scale