Dear
Parents and Students,
I would like to welcome you to my English 9 class! I
am looking forward to becoming better acquainted with you all, and I want to see
progress this year. I want us to be able to build a comfortable and positive
learning environment. However, my main objective as an educator is to help each
student learn as much as possible.
The literary focus this year is world literature,
which means that we will be reading selections from a variety of countries and
cultures throughout the world.
In this class we will read a number of the classics--The Odyssey,
Romeo and Juliet—as well as several more contemporary works.
Our literature study will include fiction (short stories and novels),
non-fiction, drama, and poetry.
Although we will read a number of works as a class, we will also have
some opportunity for self-selection of works as well.
The major areas I would like to focus on in this year
(2008-2009) in English 9 are encouraging students to: 1. use language with
enjoyment as a vehicle for thought, creativity, learning and self- expression,
2. respond appropriately to a variety of texts, 3. gain a deeper understanding
of human nature and thus of self and others, 4. develop a critical approach to
literature, 5. comprehend more clearly aspects of one’s own culture and those
of other cultures, and 6. encourage a wide range of reading for enjoyment.
It is very important that students understand what I
expect of their behavior, because I am adamant on using my class time wisely. To
help me develop a positive learning environment, I have included attachments,
which explains the course policies/grading system, expectations, and
procedures/consequences.
Parents, if you have any questions concerning your child’s progress in
my class, I will be happy to discuss your child’s progress during my planning
period (3rd). Feel free to contact me at school.
I am looking forward to having a wonderful and rewarding year. Thanks for
your cooperation.
Ms.
S. Jordan
Auburn
Junior High School