Advanced Composition

DiTommaso

Advanced Composition is a class that will focus primarily on writing; however, it will also include other components such as reading and speaking. This class is a graduation requirement. If you do not complete the assignments and earn an "F", then you will not graduate. The assignments are established with ample time to complete them. We will work within a comprehensive writing portfolio throughout the semester. The class will culminate with a 10+ page research project.

Since you are seniors and presumably more responsible than younger students, you are expected to hand in all work promptly. Understand that due dates are final. There will be many days of impromptu speaking and writing. I expect that you remain responsible and conscientious. This course will demand you to be a mature listener and an active and willing writer. Understand that you are adults and there will be a high level of respect in this classroom.

This course is a portfolio-based course. We will work on many different assignments with certain ones (your choice) to be handed in as finished copies. Throughout the first quarter we will have a total of 10 essays to continually work on. At the end of the quarter a total of four completed essays will have been handed in. Your portfolio will be graded as well. The second quarter is mainly the research project (requirement for seniors), but will also include various writing assignments that will focus on individual deficiencies. The research project will serve as your semester final exam grade.

Grading Scale: Assignments:

97-100 A+ writing portfolio

93-96 A reading

90-92 A- speeches

87-89 B+ projects

83-86 B independent reading

80-82 B-

77-79 C+ Grading Assessment:

73-76 C

70-72 C- The rubric is a guideline for your writing

67-69 D+

63-66 D

62 or below F

Absence Policy:

If you've been absent, you are responsible for the work. You have as many days as you were absent to make up late work. This does not apply if the assignments have been made in advance or your absence. If an assignment is due while you’re absent, then your work is due the day you return.

Writing Assignment Requirements:

Page Set Up: 1” on each side (top, bottom, left and right)

Font: Times New Roman

Font Size: 12 pt.

Spacing: Double Spaced throughout (MLA Style)

Numbering: Top upper right corner (use “header” in Microsoft Word)

Heading: Upper left corner:

Name

Mr. DiTommaso

Advanced Composition

Date

Upper right corner:

Last name a page number

Title:

Original Title center spaced

Essay Length:

Appropriate

Covers and Binders:

Do not use plastic covers, binders, folders etc.

Late Work:

Work submitted late will receive a one-letter grade deduction per day off the earned grade.

Academic Honesty:

Be honest and you’ll be fine.