The Final Exam Essay
Assume the persona of a character from The Hound of the Baskervilles and write a letter to another character. In the letter share and explain two events that take place in the novella.
Characters
Sherlock Holmes
Dr. Watson
Mrs. Barrymore
Mr. Barrymore
Dr. Mortimer
Beryl Stapleton
Jack Stapleton
Detective Lestrade
Laura Lyons
Sir Charles Baskerville
Sir Henry Baskerville
Cartwright
Frankland

Format
26 Baskerville Lane
Devonshire, England
December 14, 2009
or
221B Baker Street
London, England
December 14, 2009

Dear __________________,
Paragraph 1 - Assume the persona of the assigned character. Make certain that you list the
two events in the last sentence of the paragraph.
Paragraph 2 - The topic sentence names the event. Then summarize the event. Explain how
the events could help solve the mystery.
Paragraph 3 - The topic sentence names the second event. Summarize the event and explain
how the event could help solve the mystery.
Paragraph 4 - Add a personal touch to the events and setting of the novella.


Very truly yours,
____________

Note: You will not know which two characters will serve as a basis of your letter until you come
to class on Monday.

Monday, December 14, 2009
The final exam essay will be administered. The prompt will come from The Hound of the Baskervilles. I gave pertinent details on Monday, December 7, 2009, concerning my expectations for the writing assignment. You are allowed to bring the novella, notes, a dictionary, and a thesaurus. The essay will count one-third of the final exam grade.

The Objective Portion
This portion will count two-thirds of the final exam grade.
Part I: vocabulary 1-50
Part II: the eight parts of speech 51-70
Part III: the parts of a sentence 71-90
Part IV: subordinate clauses 91-110
Part V: The Odyssey 111-127
Part VI: The Hound of the Baskervilles 128-150
Part VII: a short story

Study sessions will take place daily during the week of December 7-11. Please bring study materials for this class as well as your other classes. You will not be allowed to go to the locker to retrieve materials.

You will have an opportunity to complete/adjust and/or change the answers on today's activity. (The Hound of the Baskervilles)

Revision of reading/annotating/presentations of The Hound of the Baskervilles
Chapters 10-12 November 17, 2009
Chapters 13-15 November 18, 2009

Presentations
Group 3 - Wednesday, November 18, 2009 (Chapters 7-9)
Group 4 - Thursday, November 19, 2009 (Chapters 10-12)
Group 5 - Friday, November 20, 2009 (Chapters 13-15)

Major Test
Monday, November 23, 2009

The Video/DVD
Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Homework
Study Vocabulary Lessons 1, 2, and 3; there will be a test on Monday, November 16, 2009.

I am revising the reading schedule for The Hound of the Baskervilles. Peruse the following group presentation schedule:

Group 3 will present on Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Group 4 will present on Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Group 5 will present on Thursday, November 19, 2009

A major test (The Hound of the Baskervilles) will be given on Monday, November 23, 2009. Please see me and/or jot notes, so we can discuss them during the class period.

Reminders
Make certain that you define the words that are listed on this week's lesson plan under "Monday." Bring the work to class.
Group 2 - Be prepared to do your presentation tomorrow. (Chapters 4-6) Hound

Homework
Write each word, the part of speech, and a synonym/definition for each word in Lesson 3. These are the words that were dictated in class today.
There will be a quiz on Friday, November 13, 2009.

Group One will present tomorrow (Chapters 1-3 of The Hound of the Baskervilles).

Plan to finish the final draft of The Odyssey essay on Monday during class; it is due at the end of the period.

Group Presentations The Hound of the Baskervilles
Group 1 - will present on Tuesday, November 10, 2009.

Please continue to check the reading schedule dated November 2, 2009.

Reminder
Follow the reading schedule dated November 2, 2009.

Presentations
Each group will teach the assigned chapters to the rest of the class. You will discuss plot and character development. Make certain that your presentation is extremely detailed so that it will provide a clear picture of the plot and the characters.

Homework
Continue reading and annotating The Hound of the Baskervilles. See the reading schedule dated November 2, 2009.

Homework
Begin reading and annotating The Hound of the Baskervilles. If you do not want to write in the book, write the notes on paper. Please see yesterday's blog for the reading schedule.

Homework
Bring the "form rules for writing compositions" and the writing prompt to class tomorrow.
The Hound of the Baskervilles books have arrived.

The Reading Schedule
The chapters should be read and annotated (plot only) by the following dates:
Chapters 1-3 Monday, November 9, 2009
Chapters 4-6 Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Chapters 7-9 Friday, November 13, 2009

Chapters 10-12 Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Chapters 13-15 Thursday, November 19, 2009

Homework
Study plot and literary devices/techniques (Plot Strand III). There will be a major test on Monday, November 2, 2009.

Homework

Write a thought-provoking question based on the episode that was assigned to you in class today. We will use the questions as a review tomorrow. Make certain that the question is related to plot only, not a literary device or technique.

Reminder
There will be a major test on Monday, November 2, 2009; the test will cover plot and literary devices and techniques from Plot Strand III. At least two questions are related to Plot Strands II and III.

Homework
Peruse The Odyssey packet; there should be copious notes written in the margins. Write any concerns that you have about the plot and/or literary devices, and I will address your questions and/or concerns tomorrow.

Bring "The Form Rules for Writing Compositions" to class tomorrow. As the lesson plan reflects, we will begin working on a thesis-controlled essay.

Homework
Refer to the lesson plan. Study Vocabulary Words 156-185, and bring flashcards or other study aids to class with you tomorrow.

Homework
Annotate (plot only) the episodes in Plot Strand III; I will go over the literary devices/techniques with you in class.

Homework

Study for the subordinate clause test that will be given on Monday, October 26, 2009.
Follow the reading schedule on this week's lesson plan. (The Odyssey)

Homework
The vocabulary quiz that was scheduled for Friday, October 23, 2009, has been postponed. Tomorrow is an early dismissal day, and I want to make sure that students have enough time to finish the quiz. I will announce the day at a later time.

Remember, there is a major test on Monday, October 26, 2009. (subordinate clauses) Complete Pages 99 and 100 (subordinate clauses) this evening. We will finish the entire packet during class tomorrow, so you will be able to use it as a tool while studying this weekend.

Read and annotate plot info for "The Challenge" in The Odyssey packet. I will discuss/cover the literary devices with you next week.

Homework

Practice subordinate clauses. (Use today's worksheet and the GUM workbook.)
Read "Penelope" in The Odyssey packet. Annotate items that you want to remember; I will cover and explain the literary devices in class.

Homework
Prepare flashcards and/or some other method that will assist you in studying for the vocabulary quiz.
Read and annotate "The Suitors." Annotate plot notes in the margins; I will go over the literary devices with you during the class period.

Homework
Make flashcards and study Vocabulary Words 156-185.
Read and annotate the following episodes:
"Father and Son"
"Argos"

Reminders
Vocabulary Quiz #6 will be given on Friday, October 23, 2009.
There will be a major test (subordinate clauses) on Monday, October 26, 2009.
Please come by during lunch on Thursdays and Fridays for tutoring if you need additional help.

Homework
Study The Odyssey; there will be a major test on Monday, October 19, 2009. Make certain that you study background information, plot, and the literary devices.

Homework
Study Vocabulary Words 126-155; there will be a quiz tomorrow.
Review today's lesson (subordinate clauses); ten sentences will be added to the vocabulary quiz.

Homework
Study Vocabulary Words 126-155.
The most effective way to study the vocabulary is to prepare a separate document (flashcards or retype the word + definition or synonym).

Bring the "form rules for writing compositons" handout to class tomorrow; it is the same handout that was distributed prior to writing the personal narrative. It is a good idea to keep it in the English notebook at all times.

Homework

Study Vocabulary Words 126-155.
Suggestion: Write each word and the part of speech on one side of a notecard or a small piece of paper, and write a synonym or definition on the opposite side. This method, at least for most students, is more effective than studying the words from the vocabulary packet.

Vocabulary Quiz on Friday, October 16, 2009
The Odyssey (major test) will be given on Monday, October 19, 2009.
The subordinate clause (major test) will be given on Monday, October 26, 2009.
The Odyssey (major test) will be given on Monday, November 2, 2009.

I am available on Thursdays and Fridays during lunch for tutoring.

Homework
Complete Page 101 in the GUM book. (adjective, adverb, and noun clauses)
The presentations on (The Odyssey) will begin on Tuesday, October 13, 2009.
discussion - "The Cattle of the Sun God"

There will be a major test on Monday, October 19, 2009; the test will cover Plot Strand II of The Odyssey. Background information (the bullet sheet) and the episodes (plot and literary devices) will be on the test.

Please come by the classroom on Thursday or Friday during lunch if have concerns and/or need tutoring for Monday's test.

Homework
Complete Page 99 in the GUM workbook. (noun clauses)
Read "The Cattle of the Sun God."
Study Vocabulary 96-125; there will be a quiz on Monday, October 12, 2009.

Homework
Complete Page 93 in the GUM book. (adjective clauses)
Continue reading and annotating The Odyssey; follow the reading schedule on the lesson plan.

Homework

Read "The Cyclops" and "The Sirens" per the lesson plan.

Homework

Study The Greek Epic handout. There will be a quiz tomorrow.
Bring the GUM book tomorrow.
Make certain that you have annotated "The Lotus Eaters."

Homework

Study Vocabulary Words 96-125.
Each student will write a sentence for each assigned word. Make certain that context clues and previously learned grammar are evident in the sentence.

Read and annotate "The Lotus Eaters."

Friday's Homework
Review "The Greek Epic" handout.
Remember to bring the Plot Strand 2 handout and a highlighter to class on Monday.

Homework
Study Vocabulary Lesson 2 (Quiz #4); there will be a quiz on Friday, October 2, 2009.
Peruse the "background information" handout. (Homer and The Odyssey)

Wednesday's Homework

Study Vocabulary Lesson 2. A quiz will be given on Friday, October 2, 2009.

Tuesday's Homework (September 29, 2009)
Vocabulary Lesson 2
Write each word, the part of speech, and a synonym or definition. Write sentences for the words that are listed on the lesson plan.

Homework
Study vocabulary, parts of a sentence, and sentence patterns.
There will be a test on Tuesday, September 29, 2009.

Homework
Complete Page 51 in the GUM book. In addtion, identify and label the subject, verb (distinguish between linking and action), prepositions, and object of prepositions.

Homework
Identify the predicate nominatives and the predicate adjectives in the sentences on Page47.(Exercise A only)
Study vocabulary; there will be a grammar (sentence parts and patterns) and vocabulary test on Tuesday, September 29, 2009.

Homework
Complete Page 45 in the GUM book. Write any questions or concerns that you have on the page.

Homework
Define and indicate the part of speech for the vocabulary words. (See today's lesson plan.)
Write a paragraph using eleven of the vocabulary words. (See today's lesson plan.)

Friday's Homework
Study the literary reviews; there will be a major test on Monday, September 21, 2009. The test is a major grade (counts twice).

Reminder
The second summer read project that was assigned at the beginning of the school year is due on Monday, September 21, 2009.

Thursday's Homework

Study the literary reviews; there is a major test on Monday.
Tomorrow, write the final copy of your personal narrative; the narrative is due at the end of the period.

Tuesday's Homework
Read the form rules for writing compositions.
Read the writing prompt "personal narrative" very carefully.
Attach the writing prompt to your rough draft.
Make certain that you turn in the rough draft to the associate teacher before leaving the classroom.

Wednesday's Homework
Look over "The Open Window" literary review for discussion on Thursday.

Homework
Read "The Scarlet Ibis" and complete a literary review.

Reminders
The second summer reading assignment is due on Monday, September 21, 2009.
There will be a major test (the short story unit) on Monday, September 21, 2009; use the literary reviews as study material.

Homework
Study Vocabulary Words 31-60 and the eight parts of speech. Both will be on Monday's quiz.
Bring the flash/note cards to class on Monday for extra credit points.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Homework
Read "The Necklace" and complete a literary review.
Study Vocabulary Words 31-60.
Preparing notecards is optional; however, it is a great way to study for a vocabulary quiz. (Place the word on one side of a card, and put the part of speech and a definition and/or synonym on the other side.) I will add bonus points to the quiz score if you have these cards with you on Monday.
Bring literary reviews tomorrow for the following short stories:
"The Open Window"
"The Most Dangerous Game"
"The Cask of Amontillado"
"The Necklace"

Homework

Review and complete the vocabulary/parts of a sentence handout.
Study Vocabulary Words 31-60.
Remember, tomorrow is picture day for all freshmen.

Homework - Read "The Cask of Amontillado" and complete a literary review.
Begin studying Vocabulary Words 31-60; there will be a quiz
on Monday, September 14, 2009.

Homework - Finish "The Most Dangerous Game" literary review.
Review Vocabulary Words 1-30 for Tuesday's quiz.
Bring the literature book to class everyday.

Homework - Review "The Most Dangerous Game." Plan to retake the reading check on Friday,
September 4, 2009, if you did not do well on the the first one.
Study vocabulary words.
Annotate "Tule Lake" (front side only).

Homework - Write an original sentence for each of the eight words listed. Provide context clues.
Then, underline all of the examples of the part of speech indicated.
For example, use the word "dank" in a sentence and underline all of the nouns:
The walls of the dark, dank cellar were covered in mold because of the moisture.

Due Date: Thursday, September 3, 2009

"The Most Dangerous Game"

Homework - Read "The Most Dangerous Game."

Homework - Identify and annotate diction, imagery, and detail in the selected passage from "The Most Dangerous Game."

Tone Words (Week 1)

Tone Words
1. apprehensive
2. awe
3. bitter
4. caustic
5. clinical
6. compassionate
7. condescending
8. cynical
9. flippant
10. hopeful
11. impartial
12. intimate
13. ironic
14. irreverent
15. lugubrious
16. malicious
17. mocking
18. morose
19. nostalgic
20. obsequious
21. reverent
22. ribald
23. sentimental
24. solemn
25. sympathetic
26. threatening
27. urgent
28. vibrant
29. whimsical
30. wrathful

Course Syllabus

Estelle Moore-Walker
Pre-Advanced Placement English I
Grade Placement: 9
Prerequisite: Admission by Review
Credit: 1
Textbooks: Elements of Language
The Language of Literature
English Grammar and Composition
Outlooks

This course reinforces and extends previous knowledge by developing an appreciation for different literary genres, developing an appreciation and understanding of the structure of English grammar, improving vocabulary through the use of context clues, developing skills in written as well as oral expression, and improving organizational and time management skills.

Semester One
vocabulary (context clues)
prefixes and suffixes
the eight parts of speech
sentence structure (independent and dependent clauses)
parts of a sentence
phrases ( gerund, infinitive, participial, adjective, and adverb)
pronouns (case and antecedent agreement)
punctuation
capitalization
fragments and run-ons
writing as a process (prewriting, rough draft, proofreading, revision, and final draft)
expository, descriptive, narrative, and persuasive writing
note-taking and summarizing
short stories (first six weeks)
The Odyssey (second six weeks)
The Hound of the Baskervilles (third six weeks)

Semester Two
vocabulary (context clues)
verbs (tenses and subject/verb agreement)
sentence variety
writing as a process
Jane Eyre (fourth six weeks)
A Tale of Two Cities (fifth six weeks)
Romeo and Juliet (sixth six weeks)
The Rime of the Ancient Mariner (sixth six weeks)

We will also read selections of non-fiction and poetry as well as other titles as time allows. Please encourage your son or daughter to read for pleasure, too!

Rules

1.
Enter the classroom in an orderly manner.
2.
Be seated and ready to work when the tardy bell rings.
3.
Read the blackboard/lesson plan daily.
4.
Remain seated and quiet during class.
5.
Raise hand before speaking.
6.
Do not eat, drink, comb or brush hair, or apply cosmetics in the classroom.
BOTTLED WATER IS ALLOWED.
7.
Keep feet on the floor.
8.
Do not throw anything in the classroom.
9.
Do not write or sit on the desks.
10.
Use the restroom between classes.
11.
Cheating will not be tolerated. If a student is caught cheating, the student will receive
a zero on the assignment and a P in conduct for the grading cycle.
12.
Bellaire's honor code is enforced in Pre-AP English I.

Honor Code

On my honor, I have neither given nor received any help on this work.
Write the honor code on all tests/quizzes and write your signature.
Needless to say, proper conduct is essential. Improper behavior is noted as it occurs; no additional warning will be given.

Conferences
Please schedule an appointment prior to the visit. Parents may call the main office to leave a message (713) 667-2064), send in a written request by the student, or e-mail me at
emoorewa@houstonisd.org. This document, along with other pertinent documents, can be found on my blog @ http://www.literaryworks9.blogspot.com/

……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Acknowledgement

Please read, sign, detach, and return this portion to me on the next school day.

I have read, and I understand the English Course Requirements.

___________________________ _______________
Student's Signature Date
___________________________
Student’s E-mail Address
___________________________ _______________
Parent's Signature Date
___________________________
Parent’s E-mail Address

Bellaire High School Estelle Moore-Walker
Pre-AP English 1A, Period ___ August 24, 2009
Vocabulary Lesson 1 (title line)
Skip one line.
1. Start on this line.


Pre-AP English I Expectations


To perform at the high school Pre-AP level in English, students are to demonstrate the following on a consistent basis:

Excellent conduct and strong attendance
Preparation for class
Listening and note-taking skills
Ability and willingness to follow oral and written directions
Self-motivation to complete all assignments on time and as assigned
Strong foundation in grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and spelling
Ability to write a multi-paragraph essay
Reading skills to comprehend long works of literature
Ability to process the information given by the teacher in order to answer higher-level thinking skills
Familiarity with the library and basic references


Students should expect to do the following:

Homework on a daily basis
Several writing assignments
Extensive note-taking and summarizing
Extensive reading outside the classroom
Vocabulary in context
Active participation in classroom discussions and activities


ATTENDANCE
Maintain regular attendance. Be punctual. Students who have been absent must present a written excuse no later than three days after the date of the absence or tardy. Work missed as a result of an absence must be made up within one school week (five days) after the absence or within a reasonable amount of time should the absence be deemed extenuating. It is the student's responsibility to make up the work. I am available during lunch on Thursdays and Fridays.

PREPARATION
Come to class prepared. It is the student's responsibility to turn in the assigned work on the proper day and period. Late work will not be accepted, and students will not be allowed to go to the locker and/or other classrooms to get work.

SUPPLIES
Bring the appropriate textbook, workbook, notebook with paper, a blue or black pen, and a #2 pencil with an eraser. Additionally, please purchase the following:
a red pen
a highlighter
four dividers
a dictionary and a thesaurus
one box of tissue (i.e., Kleenex)
sanitizer (Please do not write names on the Kleenex box or sanitizer; I will make certain that I give credit to students who bring these materials.)

NOTEBOOK
Each student must maintain an English notebook. This may be a separate notebook or a section in a large binder. The notebook will be checked and/or graded periodically. Each notebook should contain the following:
all handouts distributed in class
an assignment/grade sheet
class notes
homework/daily work
vocabulary
tests/quizzes

PROGRESS REPORTS
Each student will receive a progress report at the end of the third week or the beginning of the fourth week of each grading cycle. The report should be signed by a parent or guardian and returned to the teacher on the next school day. All students and parents can easily access the student's grades at any time by reviewing the assignment/grade sheet. This will change when the Speed Grade is established.

GRADING PROCEDURES
The major test day for the English department is Monday. Quizzes may be given on any day. A detailed explanation about the averaging of grades will be explained during the first week of school.
NOTE: The National Honor society provides tutoring; the sessions are scheduled in Room E340

Tuesdays and Wednesdays during lunch.