Instructor: Erin Fielding
Email: erinfielding14@gmail.com
Course Description: The focus of this class is to lay a solid foundation for writing at the high school level. Each quarter I will introduce a different type of writing assignment that students are expected to become proficient in as they move towards college. My goal is to give them tools that will help them gain confidence and “demystify” the process of writing in a positive, encouraging environment. I expect the students in this class to work hard but I do not expect perfection. I am far more interested in improvement than perfect scores. I have listed below the types of writing that I plan to cover this year as well as a few of the specific skills we will cover.
Expository- Cause/Effect
Exploring the relationship between events in history and their consequences
Expository- Literary Analysis
Learning how to analyze a piece of literature for structure and content
Argumentative- Problem/Solution
Choosing and articulating the best solution to an existing problem
Persuasive- Take a Stand
Learning how to articulate an opinion on a current issue
Course Objectives: Embedded skills (not a complete list): 
MLA formatting
Thesis writing
Choosing appropriate sources
Crafting an outline
Citing sources in text
Works cited page
Using sound logic
Revising and editing
Grade Level: 9th-12th
Class Time: Tuesday 10:20AM-11:35AM
Course Duration: Full Year
Required Materials(s):
Binder with dividers (preferably with pockets) to store paper materials
Notebook paper
Pencils and highlighters
Access to a computer outside of class
Reliable internet access (All major assignments will need to be completed and submitted through Google Docs–essays will not be handwritten.)
Supply Fee: $25
Classroom Expectations:
Show up ready to learn with a positive attitude.
Be respectful to everyone in the room.
Keep up with assignments. 
Let me know if you will be absent ahead of time if possible.
Grading Policies: Students will produce one essay per quarter, which accounts for much of their overall grade. The quarterly grades will be calculated as such: 10% Participation, 10% Padlet, 60% Homework, 20% Final draft
Grading Scale: 100%-90% A, 89%-80% B, 79%-70% C, 69%-60% D, 59%-0% F