Mr. Greg Geibel

English II

North Allegheny Intermediate High School

"Every morning I jump out of bed and step on a landmine.  The landmine is me. 

After the explosion, I spend the rest of the day putting the pieces together."

-Ray Bradbury

English II is a course designed around the creation, analysis, and appreciation of artistic works.  The mission is to invoke the imagination, provoke the senses, and evoke the emotions. 

English II will aspire:

    to uphold the integrity of the creative process;

    to recognize and respect each individual's contribution to class;

    to extend the limits of the accepted;

    to draw inspiration from our artistic and cultural diversity;

    to encourage and promote the potential of youth.

        (inspired by the Cirque du Soleil mission statement)

Requirements:

                -One notebook used ONLY for English class notes and assignments

                -One folder dedicated to English class

                -Be in the habit of bringing your book to class every day

Assignments Must:

                -Be written in ink

                -Be as neat and legible as possible

                -Be on time

                -Be complete

Behavior:

                -Your classroom will be a place where you are respected and are required to respect others.  This includes respecting one another, as well as me.  There will be no foul language, teasing, mocking, or hostile behavior tolerated. 

                - Raise your hand and wait to be called on.  I value your thoughts and questions and I don’t want to miss any. 

                - Be a positive person.  Share your wisdom.

                -There will be no sleeping in class.  If you are not able to hold your head up and be alert for 40 minutes, please report to the nurse and follow up with me.

Expectations:

                You have a very real opportunity to succeed in English this year.  I hope that you will rise to the occasion.  I plan on doing my part to see you meet that success.  Ultimately, it is your choice.  By following the structure I have provided you with, involving yourself with the group and materials, keeping your parent(s) current on your progress, and asking for help when necessary – you have a fool-proof plan for your best year in English class.  I am looking forward to our adventures and discoveries.  I hope you choose to succeed.

Syllabus:

-Short Stories: 10-15 from various authors and genres.  Discussion questions, writing assignments, quizzes, tests, formal essay.

-Novels: To Kill a Mockingbird.  Study guides, quizzes, tests, PSSA writing analysis.  Fahrenheit 451.  Study guides, quizzes, tests, PSSA writing analysis

-Drama: Julius Caesar.  Study guides, quizzes, tests, PSSA writing analysis  12 Angry Men Study guides, quizzes, tests, PSSA writing analysis

Vocabulary: About 9 units. Exercises in VWS book, tests, review exercises. 

Grammar: Parts of speech, usage problems, rules and concepts.

Grading Policy:

                90-100%   A

                80-89%      B

                70-79%     C

                60-69%     D

                59% or less E

Grades that are .5 or higher will be rounded up.  I recommend that you keep track of your grades throughout the grading period.  This will greatly reduce the number of times you will need to approach me asking, “What do I have in here?”

Enjoy the ride,

Mr. Geibel