Memorial High School 
English Department

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Etymology (2006-07)

Welcome to Etymology

Objectives:

1.  Improve SAT score by learning strategies and practicing for the test.  
2.  Increase reading comprehension to prepare for college.  
3.  Build a college-level vocabulary for speaking and writing as well as reading.  
4.  Write to reflect critical thinking.  
5.  Review crucial grammar concept skills

Utensils:

1.  Pen / pencil, paper, binder and ten tabs.  You will want one for Daily Questions and the others for the different units we complete.   
2.  Note cards and electronic dictionary (helpful but optional).
3.  A book to read-- Reading is a proven way to improve your SAT scores! Do not do other homework or play calculator games.
4.  During class, we will access a free SAT prep website:  www.number2.com

Tests/Quizzes:

1.  Tests will be announced; quizzes may not.  
2.  Standardized tests:  Core 40  
3.  Tests are cumulative; I expect once we learn a word I can include it on any test or quiz.

Binder

1. Keep binder neat and organized; include all work from each unit.  
2.  Maintain a section with the questions of the day; write the date, question, and answer.  
3.  Use your binder as your own study guide for both the final and the actual SAT.  
4.  Bring binder to class daily; I reserve the right to collect and grade it on any day--without notice.

Homework:

1.  Spend 10-15 minutes every night studying vocabulary if you plan to LEARN the words and not just memorize them.  Try to incorporate them in to your speech and writing.  
2.  Activity sheets, reading assignments, journals, projects, etc.  
3.  Because of the nature of this course, homework is due when I collect it or it is a 0.  If absent, homework is due first day back at school--even if you do not have class that day.

Grades:

1.  Grades are based on a point system, using Memorial’s scale.  
2.  Grades include homework, bonus, essays, tests, quizzes, and projects.  
3.  This class will not get a LATE pass; homework is not accepted LATE!   Bonus is an option.
4.  Each quarter is worth 40% of semester grade; final exam is 20% and will include an SAT test.  
5.  Be responsible for keeping a record of your own grades.

Absences: 

1.  If you are sick, stay home and get well.  
2.  See the procedures for make-up work

Cheating:

A word on cheating--don’t do it.  Learn the difference between co-operative learning and cheating.  One is a great educational tool for developing understanding; the other is a serious offense.

The work we do:

You may or may not have seen the books that list the top 10,000 words most likely to appear on the SAT.  There is no way I can prepare you for everything.  For those of you who have taken previous SAT-prep courses, endure if I repeat information you have already heard; others in class may not have heard that information and are entitled to learn it.  My goal is to target some key words that I see on many lists as well as to expose you to other words that you will likely encounter in college and beyond.  While the primary purpose of the class is to prepare you for standardized tests, I also want to improve your vocabulary for success in college and in life.  My goal is to ingrain the unit words into your brains forever not just to memorize for a test.  Thus, I urge you to take 10-15 minutes each night to review your words, incorporate them in to your writing, and use them in every day conversations.  Unfortunately the SAT is not the most fascinating content.  Therefore to expect that this class will be fun is probably incorrect.  I will try to add some levity to our course work, but my goal is to teach you not to entertain you.

Internet Use:  Many SAT-prep web sites charge a fee.  During class, however, we will access a free site:  www.number2.com.  The site does, however, require students to register; they may check whether they wish to receive additional or promotional information.  If you do not wish for your son or daughter to use this site, please initial that space on the attached sheet.  Feel free to check out the site or contact me if you have additional questions

If you need me:  
If you need to contact me outside of school time, feel free to email:  kcarroll@mhs.evansville.net

                                                                                                                        THANKS

                                                                                                                        Mrs. Carroll